Summer is here, and that means it’s time to get your grill out and start cooking! Grilling is a favorite pastime for many, and there’s nothing quite like the taste of food cooked outside over an open flame. Chicken drumsticks are a classic grilling staple, but getting them just right can be a bit of a challenge. The key to perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks is all in the temperature. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what temperature you should cook chicken drumsticks on the grill to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
What Temp Should I Cook My Chicken Drumsticks?
The most important thing to keep in mind when cooking chicken drumsticks on the grill is that the internal temperature of the chicken needs to reach 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked. The best way to accomplish this is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick and make sure it’s not touching the bone. When the thermometer reads 165°F, you can be confident that your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
In terms of grill temperature, aim for a range of 300-400°F. This range will allow the chicken to cook through without burning on the outside. If your grill is too hot, the chicken will cook too quickly on the outside, leaving the inside undercooked. If your grill is too cool, the chicken will take too long to cook and may dry out.
Prepping Your Chicken Drumsticks for the Grill
In addition to getting the grill temperature just right, you also need to properly prep your chicken drumsticks before they hit the grill. Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken is ready to be grilled to perfection:
1. Rinse your chicken drumsticks with cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Season your chicken with your favorite dry rub or marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
3. For even cooking, wrap your chicken drumsticks in foil or plastic wrap and allow them to warm to room temperature before being placed on the grill.
4. Before placing your chicken on the grill, coat the grill grates with a thin layer of cooking oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Grilling Your Chicken Drumsticks
Now that you’ve prepped your chicken drumsticks and the grill is hot, it’s time to start grilling. Here are the steps to follow for perfectly grilled chicken drumsticks:
1. Place your chicken drumsticks on the grill, making sure they are evenly spaced and not touching.
2. Cook the chicken for approximately 15-20 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Use a pair of long tongs to carefully turn the chicken over halfway through the cooking time.
4. As the chicken cooks, you may need to adjust the grill temperature slightly to ensure the chicken is cooking evenly without burning.
5. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Now that you know the right temperature to cook chicken drumsticks on the grill, you can confidently fire up the grill this summer and impress your friends and family with perfectly grilled chicken every time. Remember to aim for a grill temperature of 300-400°F and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Properly prepping your chicken and monitoring the grill temperature will ensure your chicken is juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. Happy grilling!
