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Savory Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe Easy Smoky Glaze

honey mustard grilled chicken drumsticks - featured image

A quick and easy grilled chicken drumsticks recipe featuring a savory honey mustard glaze with smoky spices, perfect for summer BBQs and crowd-pleasing dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds / 900g), skin-on
  • 1/4 cup honey (85g), preferably raw or local
  • 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce for heat

Instructions

  1. Pat the 8 chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick better. Season lightly with salt and black pepper on all sides. (About 5 minutes)
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add chili flakes if using. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick. (About 5 minutes)
  3. Toss the drumsticks in half of the glaze mixture, coating each piece well. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. (A quick 10-minute soak works if short on time.)
  4. Preheat the grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. (About 10 minutes)
  5. Place the drumsticks on the grill, skin side down first. Cook about 10 minutes per side, brushing with the remaining glaze every 4-5 minutes. Watch for flare-ups and move pieces if needed. The skin should turn golden and slightly charred with a sticky glaze coating.
  6. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If unavailable, pierce the thickest part and check that juices run clear. (Total grilling time approximately 20-25 minutes.)
  7. Transfer drumsticks to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes to let juices redistribute and the glaze settle.
  8. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or lemon wedges.

Notes

Patience is key to avoid burning the glaze; brush glaze in layers every few minutes. Rest chicken after grilling for juicier meat. For smoky aroma, add soaked wood chips to charcoal grill. Oven-bake alternative: 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, brushing glaze every 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey mustard chicken, grilled chicken drumsticks, smoky glaze, easy BBQ recipe, summer grilling, quick chicken dinner