Learn how to easily make chicken drumsticks on the smoker. Smoked chicken is one of my favorite meals in the summertime and it is surprisingly easy! If you have been using a smoker for any length of time, then you have probably learned by now how easy it is to make deliciously tender meat. I like to call the smoker my summertime crock pot. Chicken drumsticks made on the smoker are tender, flavorful, and healthy.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 lb Chicken Drumsticks (about 4 legs)
- 2 tsp Lemon and Pepper Seasoning Blend
- 2 tsp Creole Seasoning Blend
INSTRUCTIONS
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Preheat the smoker to 275, making sure it is full of pellets. See note for best pellets to use when smoking chicken.
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Lay the chicken on a plate and pat dry using a paper towel.
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Evenly spread out the seasonings on all the drumsticks.
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Place the drumsticks on the smoker and close the lid.
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Check the drumsticks internal temperature occasionally throughout the cooking time. Make sure they don't over cook. It will take 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
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Place on a glass plate and cover with foil. Let the drumsticks rest for about ten minutes before serving. Enjoy!
How to Season Chicken Drumsticks for the Smoker
Start by using a paper towel to pat dry the drumsticks before adding your favorite seasonings. I like to use a lemon and pepper seasoning on chicken. I also added my favorite creole seasoning blend for added flavor. You can keep the seasoning pretty simple because the smoker itself will give the drumsticks great flavor. I don't bother with marinate or sauces just easy and flavorful seasoning blends.
How to Smoke Chicken Drumsticks
Heat up the smoker to 275 degrees and let it preheat before adding the chicken legs. Place the drumsticks on the smoker and close the lid. It really is so easy to smoke drumsticks and they are perfect for a weekday meal. Drumsticks are naturally a more tender cut of chicken and they are perfect for even beginners to try on the smoker!
How long does it take to cook drumsticks on the smoker?
At 275 degrees it will take about 1.5 to two hours. It is important to use a meat thermometer to ensure proper temperature of doneness without overcooking the chicken. The drumsticks need to reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees. I recommend using a meat thermometer for all meat cooking. It is the easiest way to achieve proper doneness and the most tender meat.
Easy Sides for the Smoker
Like I said before, the smoker is what I like to refer to as my summertime crock pot. Just like I love using the slow cooker during the fall and winter months for easy meals, the smoker is my go to for those summer meals. To me the best sides to serve with smoked chicken drumsticks is something I can throw right on the smoker with them.
I decided a couple smoked "baked" potatoes and a mixed tray of veggies would be perfect. This all cooked at the same temperature and for the same amount of time. Big win, a healthy dinner that I can throw on the smoker with little prep and then walk away from to do other things.
Best Pellets to use for Smoked Chicken Drumsticks
The pellet smoker yields chicken with great flavor. My favorite flavor of pellets to use for chicken is apple flavored. You may also like to try cherry or pecan flavored.
Why is the chicken still pink after smoking on the pellet grill?
When you cook chicken over a longer and slower period of time the myoglobin doesn't fully break down causing a pink tint in the meat. This doesn't mean the chicken is undercooked. If the internal temperature is 165 degrees throughout then the chicken is ready to eat.
Should I rest the chicken before serving?
Yes, you should allow your chicken drumsticks to rest about five to ten minutes before serving. Just like any other good cut of meat, chicken needs a chance to rest before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout after cooking thus yielding a more tender and juicy chicken drumstick.
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