When it comes to grilled chicken, few options are as popular as drumsticks. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and delicious meal, drumsticks are an excellent choice. But if you’re new to grilling or uncertain about the best way to cook drumsticks, you may be wondering how long they take to grill at 350°F (175°C). In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect grilling time, provide some general guidelines for cooking drumsticks, and offer some tips for achieving perfectly grilled chicken.
Factors Affecting Grilling Time
Before we dive into the specifics of grilling drumsticks, it’s essential to understand the factors that affect cooking time. Several elements can influence how quickly your drumsticks cook, including:
Temperature
One of the most significant factors affecting grilling time is temperature. As you’ve likely gathered from the title of this article, we’re focusing on grilling at 350°F (175°C). However, it’s worth noting that temperature can vary depending on the grill and the location of the heat source. Make sure to use a thermometer to ensure your grill is at the correct temperature.
Internal Temperature
While the grill temperature is crucial, the internal temperature of the chicken is also critical for determining doneness. A food thermometer can help you determine the internal temperature of the drumsticks. The recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken is at least 165°F (74°C).
Drumstick Size and Thickness
The size and thickness of the drumsticks can also impact grilling time. Thicker drumsticks will take longer to cook than thinner ones. To ensure even cooking, it’s best to use drumsticks of a similar size.
Marinating and Seasoning
While marinating and seasoning don’t directly affect grilling time, they can impact the overall flavor and texture of the chicken. Marinating can help tenderize the meat, making it more susceptible to overcooking. Seasoning, on the other hand, can add flavor but won’t affect cooking time.
Grilling Drumsticks at 350°F (175°C)
Now that we’ve explored the factors affecting grilling time, let’s dive into the specifics of grilling drumsticks at 350°F (175°C). As a general guideline, you can expect drumsticks to take around 20-30 minutes to cook through. However, this time can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the grilling process:
Grilling Time for Bone-In Drumsticks
Bone-in drumsticks will generally take longer to cook than boneless drumsticks. You can expect the following grilling times for bone-in drumsticks:
- Small to medium drumsticks: 20-25 minutes
- Medium to large drumsticks: 25-30 minutes
- Large to extra-large drumsticks: 30-35 minutes
Grilling Time for Boneless Drumsticks
Boneless drumsticks will cook faster than bone-in drumsticks. You can expect the following grilling times for boneless drumsticks:
- Small to medium drumsticks: 15-20 minutes
- Medium to large drumsticks: 20-25 minutes
Additional Tips for Grilling Drumsticks
While grilling drumsticks may seem straightforward, there are some additional tips to keep in mind to ensure perfectly cooked chicken:
Pestering and Turning
Pestering and turning your drumsticks regularly can help prevent burning and promote even cooking. Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to gently turn the drumsticks every 5-10 minutes.
Grill Marks
If you’re looking for those beautiful grill marks on your drumsticks, make sure to rotate them at a 90-degree angle (perpendicular to the grill grates) every few minutes. This will help create a nice sear and those attractive grill marks.
Resting
Once you’ve cooked your drumsticks to the recommended internal temperature, it’s essential to let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Health Benefits of Grilled Drumsticks
In addition to being delicious, grilled drumsticks offer several health benefits. Here are a few reasons why grilled chicken is a great option:
- High-Quality Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing muscles.
- Low in Saturated Fat: Grilled chicken is a lean protein, meaning it’s low in saturated fat and calories.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken is a rich source of various vitamins and minerals, including niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium.
Conclusion
Grilling drumsticks at 350°F (175°C) can result in perfectly cooked chicken, but it’s essential to consider the factors affecting grilling time, such as temperature, internal temperature, drumstick size, and marinating. By following the guidelines outlined in this article and using a few additional tips, you can achieve delicious, tender, and juicy drumsticks. Remember to rest your drumsticks after cooking and enjoy the health benefits of this protein-rich food.
| Dressing | Description | Taste |
|---|---|---|
| BBQ sauce | Sweet and tangy with a smoky flavor | Delicious |
| Lemon pepper | Tangy with a crunchy pepper topping | Sour and sweet |
The above table outlines just two of the many flavors and seasonings you can try to enhance your grilling experience.
1. What is the ideal grilling temperature for drumsticks?
The ideal grilling temperature for drumsticks is between 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This temperature range allows for a nice char on the outside while ensuring the inside is cooked through. It’s essential to preheat the grill to the desired temperature before placing the drumsticks on the grates.
Once the grill is preheated, place the drumsticks on the grates and close the lid. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the drumsticks are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
2. How long does it take to grill drumsticks to perfection?
The cooking time for drumsticks can vary depending on the size and thickness of the drumsticks. Generally, drumsticks take about 15-20 minutes to cook through, with 5-7 minutes per side. If you’re using a gas grill, you can adjust the heat to medium-high and cook for 10-15 minutes per side. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you may need to cook for 15-20 minutes per side.
It’s essential to rotate the drumsticks every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. You can also check for doneness by cutting into one of the drumsticks. If the juices run clear, the drumsticks are cooked through. If not, continue to cook for a few more minutes and check again.
3. How do I keep my drumsticks from drying out during grilling?
To keep drumsticks from drying out during grilling, it’s essential to marinate them in a mixture of olive oil, acid (such as lemon juice or vinegar), and spices before grilling. The acidity in the marinade helps to break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
Another way to prevent drumsticks from drying out is to not overcook them. Cook the drumsticks until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but avoid overcooking them. Overcooking can cause the meat to dry out and become tough. You can also baste the drumsticks with a mixture of melted butter and herbs during the last few minutes of grilling to add flavor and moisture.
4. Can I grill drumsticks with the skin on or off?
Both methods are acceptable, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Grilling drumsticks with the skin on can help to retain moisture and flavor, while grilling them with the skin off can make them easier to cook evenly.
If you choose to grill drumsticks with the skin on, make sure to pat the skin dry with a paper towel before grilling to remove excess moisture. This will help the skin to crisp up during grilling. If you choose to grill drumsticks with the skin off, you can still achieve a nice char by brushing them with olive oil and spices before grilling.
5. How do I prevent drumsticks from sticking to the grill grates?
To prevent drumsticks from sticking to the grill grates, make sure to clean and oil the grates before grilling. You can brush the grates with a mixture of olive oil and water to prevent sticking. Additionally, you can spray the drumsticks with cooking spray before grilling to prevent them from sticking to the grates.
Another way to prevent sticking is to not overcrowd the grill. Cook the drumsticks in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly. You can also use a grill mat or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
6. What are some common mistakes to avoid when grilling drumsticks?
One common mistake to avoid when grilling drumsticks is overcooking them. Cook the drumsticks until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but avoid overcooking them. Overcooking can cause the meat to dry out and become tough. Another mistake to avoid is not preheating the grill before grilling.
Make sure to preheat the grill to the desired temperature before placing the drumsticks on the grates. This will help to achieve a nice char on the outside and ensure the inside is cooked through. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can cause the drumsticks to cook unevenly and stick to the grates.
7. Can I grill drumsticks in advance and reheat them later?
Yes, you can grill drumsticks in advance and reheat them later. To do this, cook the drumsticks as you normally would, then let them cool to room temperature. Wrap them in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat the drumsticks, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them on the grill or in a skillet, but make sure to cook them until they’re heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).