Grilled Butterflied Garlic Butter Chicken Drumsticks

Summer grilling season is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with these delicious grilled butterflied garlic butter chicken drumsticks? Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue. Butterflying the chicken allows for even cooking and maximizes the surface area to soak up all that luscious garlic butter.

Love More Recipes? Try My Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken or this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken next.

Why You’ll Love This

• Rich, buttery garlic flavor that elevates the chicken.
• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Great for outdoor grilling or indoor broiling.
• Versatile – serve it with your favorite sides.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For Marinade (optional)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Substitution notes: Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes.

Why These Ingredients Work

• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a crispy skin when grilled.
• Garlic: Infuses the chicken with aromatic flavor.
• Paprika: Gives a beautiful color and a hint of smokiness.
• Parsley: A fresh herb that brightens the dish.

Tools Needed

• Grill or grill pan
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

How To Make Grilled Butterflied Garlic Butter Chicken Drumsticks

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by butterflying the chicken drumsticks. Using a sharp knife, make a slit along the bone and carefully open the meat around it. This allows for even cooking.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors.

3. Marinate (Optional)

If you have time, marinate the chicken drumsticks in a mixture of lemon juice and olive oil for 30 minutes to an hour. This adds a lovely tanginess.

4. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it on the stovetop over medium heat.

5. Grill the Chicken

Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the drumsticks. Place them on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

6. Baste and Serve

During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with any remaining garlic butter. This will enhance the flavor and keep the chicken moist. Serve hot and enjoy!

You Must Know

• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Amelia’s Secret: If you want an extra layer of flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to your garlic butter mixture for a delightful smoky taste.

Pro Tips & Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each drumstick enough space for even cooking.
• Keep an eye on the temperature; chicken can dry out quickly if overcooked.

Flavor Variations

• Herb-Infused: Add dried oregano or thyme to the garlic butter for an herbal twist.
• Citrus Zing: Mix in some lemon or lime zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Spicy Garlic: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder and cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead

You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also marinate the chicken the night before for enhanced flavor.

To freeze, marinate the drumsticks in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be ready for grilling when you are!

Serving Suggestions

These grilled drumsticks pair beautifully with a fresh garden salad or grilled veggies.

For a heartier meal, serve them with baked potatoes or corn on the cob.

How to Store

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To freeze, place the cooked drumsticks in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months.

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Allergy Info

This recipe is gluten-free and can be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Always check labels for allergens.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work beautifully and may even be juicier.

Can I cook these drumsticks in the oven?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How can I tell if the chicken is done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Can I leave the skin on?

Yes, leaving the skin on will help retain moisture and flavor while grilling.

What should I do with leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge or freezer, and they make great additions to salads or wraps!

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