Ingredients:
- 5-6 pounds of fresh chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- ½ cup bourbon
- 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic or garlic paste
- ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1 cup sugar-free or reduced sugar BBQ sauce
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Clean your chicken drumsticks and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season them evenly with salt, black pepper, granulated garlic, paprika, and cumin. Ensure each drumstick is well-coated on all sides. Set aside to let the seasonings meld with the chicken while you prepare the sauce.
- Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the bourbon, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, Sriracha, and minced garlic.
- Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring every 30 seconds to prevent burning.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes or until it has reduced slightly.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the BBQ sauce and liquid smoke. If you like extra heat, add the red pepper flakes at this point.
- Continue to simmer the sauce for an additional 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 400°F (204°C).
- Place the seasoned drumsticks on the grill. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on one side, then flip them over to cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side.
- After the initial flip, begin basting the chicken with the bourbon BBQ sauce. Continue to grill, turning and basting every 4-5 minutes, ensuring the sauce caramelizes but does not burn.
- Reduce the grill temperature to medium. Continue to cook the drumsticks, turning occasionally, for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 175°-180°F (79°-82°C).
- During the last few minutes of grilling, give the drumsticks one final generous basting with the sauce to enhance the flavor and achieve a glossy finish.
- Serving:
- Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the grill and place them on a platter.
- Brush them with any remaining bourbon BBQ sauce before serving. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also makes the drumsticks visually appealing.
- Serve hot, perhaps with side dishes like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your deliciously grilled bourbon chicken drumsticks, perfect for a summer barbecue or a flavorful meal any time of the year!