Are you craving juicy, smoky chicken that practically melts in your mouth? Look no further! This easy chicken drumstick smoker recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delivering tender, flavorful chicken with a beautiful smoky char. Even beginner smokers can achieve incredible results with this foolproof method. Prepare for a taste sensation that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Your favorite wood chips (hickory, apple, or pecan work wonderfully)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes even browning.
- Mix the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Seasoning and Marinating:
- Season the Chicken: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the chicken drumsticks, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Marinate (Optional): For extra flavor, place the seasoned chicken in a zip-top bag with the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. This step adds incredible moisture and tang.
Smoking the Chicken:
- Prepare Your Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C). Add your chosen wood chips according to your smoker's instructions.
- Smoke the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks on the smoker grates, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. Remember to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
Tips for Delicious Smoked Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: This will hinder proper airflow and prevent even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Experiment with wood chips: Different wood chips impart unique flavors to the chicken. Try different varieties to find your favorite.
- Add a glaze (optional): During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce or a sweet and spicy glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dry rub for a kick.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like oregano, sage, or marjoram.
- Citrus Infusion: Add some orange or lemon zest to the dry rub for a bright citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per drumstick, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 8-12g
This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. It's quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy your mouthwatering, smoky chicken drumsticks! They're sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Share your creations and tag us on social media!