Grilled Hot Honey Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks are a flavor-packed delight that can take your backyard gatherings to the next level. Imagine succulent chicken that’s perfectly grilled, infused with a spicy-sweet glaze of honey, butter, and hot sauce. This dish is not just delicious; it’s ideal for summer barbecues, family meals, or whenever you crave something a little more exciting than your everyday chicken. Trust me, once you try these drumsticks, they’ll become a staple on your cooking roster!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is all about convenience and flavor, making it a top contender for your weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers. The process is simple yet rewarding, yielding drumsticks that are juicy and packed with taste. The butter, honey, and wing sauce meld together to create a beautiful glaze that adds a flavorful punch without breaking the bank. Plus, kid-approved, this dish will surely garner you a "wow" from the little ones at your table!
"These drumsticks are a game-changer! The sweet and spicy combination is just perfect. They grilled up beautifully and disappeared in minutes!" – A satisfied home cook.
Step-by-Step Overview
Making Grilled Hot Honey Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s an experience! You’ll begin by butterflying the chicken to ensure maximum flavor absorption and a quicker grilling time. Then, while the grill is heating up, you’ll whip up that fabulous buttery glaze. Grill them just right, and voilà, your hot honey butterflied chicken drumsticks are ready to impress!
What You’ll Need
Gathering the right components is key. Here’s what you’ll need for this flavorful dish:
- 2 1/2 – 3 lb chicken drumsticks
- 2-3 tbsp poultry seasoning
- 1 stick unsalted butter
- 2 tsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3/4 cup wing sauce (or Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- Fresh chives, finely chopped
Note: If you’re looking to customize, feel free to adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of chili flakes or choosing a milder wing sauce.
Directions to Follow
- Start by butterflying the drumsticks: slice along the bone and press them flat. Season generously with poultry seasoning.
- Preheat your grill to 350°F and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the drumsticks for 20-25 minutes, flipping them every 4-5 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the red chili flakes, honey, wing sauce, and granulated garlic until smooth and combined. Keep it warm over low heat.
- Brush the drumsticks with the sauce and return them to the grill for an additional 5-10 minutes, flipping every 2-3 minutes for even coating.
- Once done, toss the cooked drumsticks with any leftover sauce, garnish with fresh chives, and serve hot.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving these drumsticks is a breeze! They stand out beautifully on a platter, ideal for sharing. Pair them with some fresh coleslaw for a crunchy contrast, or serve alongside grilled veggies or a light salad. A side of cornbread or loaded potato salad also complements the sweet heat of the chicken perfectly. Don’t forget to have extra wing sauce on hand for dipping!
How to Store & Freeze
If you find yourself with leftovers (though I doubt it!), storing them properly is essential. Place the cooked drumsticks in an airtight container and refrigerate them; they should be good for up to three days. When reheating, make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also freeze them for up to two months—just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Extra Advice
For even more intense flavor, marinate your drumsticks in the poultry seasoning a few hours prior to grilling. If you love a bit of smokiness, consider adding some wood chips to your grill. And remember, always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling—this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender.
Creative Twists
Why not get creative? You can experiment with different flavor profiles by swapping out honey for maple syrup or using a different kind of hot sauce to tailor the heat level to your liking. You might also consider adding a touch of citrus zest to the butter mixture for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
What is the prep time for this recipe?
About 15-20 minutes for preparation, plus grilling time of around 25-35 minutes.
Can I use chicken thighs or other cuts?
Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as they may take longer to cook through.
How long can I store leftovers?
Cooked chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and frozen for up to 2 months.
Now you’re ready to make these incredible Grilled Hot Honey Butterflied Chicken Drumsticks—a dish that’s bound to win over friends and family alike! Enjoy your cooking journey!
