Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Bacon

This delectable recipe combines the savory flavor of chicken drumsticks with the crispy goodness of bacon, all brought together by the smoky allure of BBQ sauce. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in a crispy bacon wrap, grilled to perfection and infused with a rich BBQ taste—a delightful combination that will tantalize your taste buds. The marriage of flavors in this dish offers a satisfying balance, perfect for any outdoor gathering or family dinner. This recipe is straightforward, yet results in a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Grilling these drumsticks ensures a smoky essence, enhancing the overall flavor profile. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both gourmet and down-to-earth. Whether you're planning a summer cookout or just in the mood for delicious grilled chicken, these drumsticks are sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into how you can make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

8 chicken drumsticks
8 slices of bacon

Sauces:

4 tablespoons BBQ sauce

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes (Including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by preheating your grill to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 390 degrees Fahrenheit).
Prepare the chicken drumsticks by making a slit in the skin just below the joint.
Push the meat down gently so that the bone is clean and visible.
Using a brush, generously apply BBQ sauce to each drumstick, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
Take a slice of bacon and wrap it around the BBQ-coated drumstick tightly. Secure the bacon with a wooden skewer or toothpick.
Repeat the process with all drumsticks, making sure each one is securely wrapped in bacon.
Once your grill is hot, stand the prepared drumsticks on the grill grates.
Allow the drumsticks to grill for about 15 minutes, keeping the lid open to ensure a crispy texture.
After 15 minutes, open the lid and apply another layer of BBQ sauce to the drumsticks for enhanced flavor.
Close the grill lid and continue grilling for another 15 minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 75 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit).
Once the drumsticks are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a serving plate.
Let them rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
Remove any skewers or toothpicks before serving.
Serve warm, accompanied by your choice of sides or salads.
Enjoy the harmony of flavors from the BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish, if desired.
For extra zest, serve with a side of lemon wedges.
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding chili flakes to the BBQ sauce.
Make sure there are enough napkins on hand, as these drumsticks can be delightfully messy!

Tips

Substitution: If bacon is not available, prosciutto can work as a great alternative for a crispy texture.
BBQ Sauce: Opt for your favorite BBQ sauce brand or make a homemade version for a personal touch.
Grill Maintenance: Ensure your grill grates are clean to prevent the bacon from sticking.
Skewer Safety: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Nutrition

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 24g
Fats: 22g
Carbs: 8g

Variations

Spicy Option: Add cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for a fiery kick.
Sweet Twist: Mix honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free by checking the labels.
Keto-Friendly: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce to make the recipe low-carb.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside cornbread or garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
Complement with a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer.

Best Places

Smokehouse BBQ & Grill - Renowned for their unique BBQ preparations. Location: 123 BBQ Lane, Memphis, USA.
Grill Oasis - Offers a wide range of grilled delicacies. Location: 56 Palm Avenue, Miami, USA.
Bacon Haven Bistro - Known for inventive uses of bacon in their dishes. Location: 245 Culinary Street, New York, USA.
Charcoal Delight - Features a fantastic grill menu. Location: 88 Flame Road, Austin, USA.
The Grilled Taste - Perfect blend of flavors in grilled dishes. Location: 10 Spice Boulevard, Sydney, Australia.
Fire Grill Bistro - Mix of traditional and modern grilling. Location: 67 Char Road, London, UK.
Smoky Flavors Cafe - A variety of smoked and grilled offerings. Location: 99 Aroma Lane, Nashville, USA.
Bacon & Beyond - Specializes in bacon-based dishes. Location: 34 Crisp Drive, Chicago, USA.
Grill Masters Hub - Offers an exquisite barbecue experience. Location: 12 Barbecue Court, Los Angeles, USA.
Sizzle & Spice - Unique blends of spices in grilled cuisine. Location: 77 Heatway, Phoenix, USA.