When it comes to grilling chicken drumsticks, one of the most common questions people ask is, “How long should I cook them?” The answer, however, is not as simple as it seems. The cooking time for chicken drumsticks on the grill depends on several factors, including the size of the drumsticks, the heat of the grill, and the level of doneness desired. In this article, we will explore the different factors that affect the cooking time of chicken drumsticks and provide some general guidelines to help you achieve perfectly grilled drumsticks every time.
Understanding the Factors that Affect Cooking Time
Before we dive into the cooking times, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect how long chicken drumsticks take to cook on the grill. Here are some of the key factors to consider:
Size of the Drumsticks
The size of the drumsticks is one of the most significant factors that affect cooking time. Larger drumsticks take longer to cook than smaller ones. This is because larger drumsticks have more meat and take longer to heat through. On the other hand, smaller drumsticks cook faster because they have less meat and heat up quickly.
Measuring Drumstick Size
To determine the size of your drumsticks, you can measure their length and width. Here’s a rough guide to help you estimate the size of your drumsticks:
- Small drumsticks: 3-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide
- Medium drumsticks: 4-5 inches long and 2-3 inches wide
- Large drumsticks: 5-6 inches long and 3-4 inches wide
Heat of the Grill
The heat of the grill is another crucial factor that affects cooking time. A hotter grill cooks chicken drumsticks faster than a cooler grill. However, if the grill is too hot, it can burn the outside of the drumsticks before they are fully cooked on the inside.
Measuring Grill Heat
To measure the heat of your grill, you can use a thermometer. Here are some general guidelines for grill heat:
- Low heat: 275-300°F (135-150°C)
- Medium heat: 300-350°F (150-175°C)
- High heat: 350-400°F (175-200°C)
Level of Doneness
The level of doneness is also a critical factor that affects cooking time. Chicken drumsticks can be cooked to different levels of doneness, ranging from rare to well-done. The cooking time will vary depending on the level of doneness desired.
Measuring Doneness
To measure the doneness of your chicken drumsticks, you can use a thermometer or check for visual cues. Here are some general guidelines for doneness:
- Rare: 165-170°F (74-77°C)
- Medium-rare: 170-175°F (77-80°C)
- Medium: 175-180°F (80-82°C)
- Medium-well: 180-185°F (82-85°C)
- Well-done: 185-190°F (85-88°C)
Cooking Times for Chicken Drumsticks
Now that we’ve explored the factors that affect cooking time, let’s look at some general guidelines for cooking chicken drumsticks on the grill. Here are some cooking times for different sizes of drumsticks and levels of doneness:
Small Drumsticks
- Rare: 5-7 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 7-9 minutes per side
- Medium: 9-11 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 11-13 minutes per side
- Well-done: 13-15 minutes per side
Medium Drumsticks
- Rare: 7-9 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 9-11 minutes per side
- Medium: 11-13 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 13-15 minutes per side
- Well-done: 15-17 minutes per side
Large Drumsticks
- Rare: 9-11 minutes per side
- Medium-rare: 11-13 minutes per side
- Medium: 13-15 minutes per side
- Medium-well: 15-17 minutes per side
- Well-done: 17-19 minutes per side
Tips for Grilling Chicken Drumsticks
Here are some tips to help you achieve perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks:
- Preheat your grill to the right temperature before cooking.
- Season your drumsticks with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
- Oil your grates to prevent sticking.
- Cook your drumsticks over medium-high heat to achieve a nice char.
- Don’t press down on your drumsticks with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make them dry.
- Let your drumsticks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling chicken drumsticks:
- Overcooking your drumsticks, which can make them dry and tough.
- Undercooking your drumsticks, which can make them raw and unsafe to eat.
- Not preheating your grill, which can affect the cooking time and quality of your drumsticks.
- Not oiling your grates, which can cause your drumsticks to stick and tear.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken drumsticks can be a bit tricky, but with the right techniques and guidelines, you can achieve perfectly cooked drumsticks every time. Remember to consider the size of your drumsticks, the heat of your grill, and the level of doneness desired when determining the cooking time. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a grill master and impressing your friends and family with your delicious grilled chicken drumsticks.
| Drumstick Size | Rare | Medium-rare | Medium | Medium-well | Well-done |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 5-7 minutes per side | 7-9 minutes per side | 9-11 minutes per side | 11-13 minutes per side | 13-15 minutes per side |
| Medium | 7-9 minutes per side | 9-11 minutes per side | 11-13 minutes per side | 13-15 minutes per side | 15-17 minutes per side |
| Large | 9-11 minutes per side | 11-13 minutes per side | 13-15 minutes per side | 15-17 minutes per side | 17-19 minutes per side |
By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to cook chicken drumsticks to perfection every time. Remember to always use a thermometer to ensure your drumsticks are cooked to a safe internal temperature, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to add flavor to your drumsticks. Happy grilling!
What is the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken drumsticks?
The ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken drumsticks is 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and is safe to eat. It’s essential to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking chicken.
To check the internal temperature, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding any bones or fat. Wait for a few seconds until the temperature stabilizes, then read the temperature on the thermometer. If the temperature is below 165°F (74°C), continue cooking the chicken and checking the temperature until it reaches the safe minimum internal temperature.
How do I prevent chicken drumsticks from drying out when grilling?
To prevent chicken drumsticks from drying out when grilling, it’s essential to marinate them before cooking. A marinade helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor. You can use a store-bought marinade or create your own using a combination of olive oil, acid (such as vinegar or lemon juice), and spices.
Another way to prevent drying out is to cook the chicken drumsticks over medium-low heat. High heat can cause the outside to burn before the inside is fully cooked, leading to dry and overcooked chicken. By cooking over medium-low heat, you can ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays moist.
Can I grill chicken drumsticks from frozen?
While it’s possible to grill chicken drumsticks from frozen, it’s not recommended. Frozen chicken can be challenging to cook evenly, and it may not reach a safe internal temperature. Additionally, frozen chicken can be more prone to drying out when grilled.
If you need to cook frozen chicken drumsticks, it’s best to thaw them first. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or thaw them quickly by submerging them in cold water. Once thawed, pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cook as you would with fresh chicken.
How long does it take to grill chicken drumsticks?
The grilling time for chicken drumsticks depends on the heat, the size of the drumsticks, and the level of doneness desired. As a general guideline, chicken drumsticks take around 5-7 minutes per side to cook over medium-high heat. However, this time can vary depending on the specific conditions.
To ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly, it’s essential to flip the drumsticks frequently. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I add sauce to chicken drumsticks while grilling?
Yes, you can add sauce to chicken drumsticks while grilling, but it’s essential to do so at the right time. If you add sauce too early, it can burn or caramelize before the chicken is fully cooked. Instead, brush the sauce onto the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.
This allows the sauce to set and caramelize slightly, adding flavor and texture to the chicken. You can use a variety of sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or teriyaki sauce, to add flavor to your grilled chicken drumsticks.
How do I store leftover grilled chicken drumsticks?
To store leftover grilled chicken drumsticks, it’s essential to cool them to room temperature within two hours of cooking. This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps the chicken safe to eat. Once cooled, you can store the chicken in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When reheating leftover chicken drumsticks, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat them in the oven, microwave, or on the grill, depending on your preference.
Can I grill chicken drumsticks in advance and reheat them later?
While it’s possible to grill chicken drumsticks in advance and reheat them later, it’s not recommended. Grilled chicken is best served immediately, as it can dry out when reheated. However, if you need to cook in advance, it’s best to cook the chicken until it’s almost done, then finish cooking it when you’re ready to serve.
To reheat grilled chicken drumsticks, you can wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them on the grill or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the chicken.