Smoked chicken drumsticks are one of the easiest and most delicious BBQ recipes you can make—perfect for beginners and seasoned pitmasters alike. These drumsticks are packed with bold, smoky flavor thanks to Burn Pit BBQ’s Memphis Style Rub, which brings a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and a little heat.
The best part? They require minimal prep, cook low and slow for juicy tenderness, and can be finished hot for crispy, flavorful skin. Whether you’re smoking for a backyard cookout, tailgating, or just craving some BBQ, this foolproof recipe will have you serving up mouthwatering chicken in no time!
Ingredients:
Instructions:
1. Prep the Drumsticks
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with a paper towel. Lightly coat them with olive oil to help the rub adhere. Generously season all sides with Burn Pit BBQ Memphis Style Rub. Let them rest for 15-20 minutes while you preheat your smoker.
2. Preheat the Smoker
Set your smoker to 250°F using lump charcoal or hardwood for the best flavor. If using wood chips, soak them in water for 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.
3. Smoke the Chicken
Place the drumsticks directly on the smoker grates. Close the lid and smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 175-180°F for juicy, fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
4. Crisp Up the Skin (Optional)
For crispy skin, increase the temperature to 350°F for the last 5-10 minutes or finish them on a hot grill for a quick sear.
5. Rest & Serve
Remove the drumsticks from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy as-is or with your favorite BBQ sauce!
Grilling Tips for Beginners:
✅ Use a meat thermometer – Chicken drumsticks are best at 175-180°F for maximum tenderness.
✅ Avoid over-smoking – Too much smoke can overpower the flavor. A mild wood like apple or cherry works well.
✅ Keep the lid closed – Every time you open the smoker, heat escapes, which can extend cooking time.
Extra Flavor & Pairing Ideas:
🔥 Baste with butter – Brushing melted butter on the drumsticks in the last 15 minutes adds extra richness.
🔥 Pair with sides – Serve with grilled corn on the cob, coleslaw, or smoked mac & cheese.
🔥 Try different woods – For a bolder flavor, mix hickory with a touch of mesquite.
FAQ
❓ Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs?
Yes! Follow the same steps but adjust cooking time—thighs may take a little longer.
❓ Can I use a grill instead of a smoker?
Absolutely! Set up a two-zone fire on your grill and cook the drumsticks over indirect heat at 250°F until they reach 175°F.
❓ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F or air fryer for crispy skin.
🔥 Ready to take your BBQ to the next level? Grab a bottle of Burn Pit BBQ Memphis Style Rub and fire up the smoker!
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