Easy Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Easy Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was originally created to serve 4. Ingredient amounts adjust automatically for larger or smaller portions, but cooking times and steps remain the same. Keep in mind, not all recipes scale perfectly.

  • 4 chicken drumsticks
  • Olive oil, as needed
  • 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste
  • Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Step 1: Place the chicken drumsticks into a resealable plastic bag. Drizzle with olive oil and gently shake to coat each piece evenly.
Step 2: Add the ranch dressing mix, a pinch of cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the bag. Remove excess air, seal, and toss the drumsticks until fully coated.
Step 3: Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow flavors to penetrate.
Step 4: Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill grate.
Step 5: Remove the chicken from the bag, discarding any leftover marinade. Place the drumsticks on the grill.
Step 6: Grill the chicken until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165F (74C), approximately 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Step 7: Once cooked, remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 199
  • Total Fat: 11g (14% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 3g (13% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 64mg (21% DV)
  • Sodium: 592mg (26% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrate: 4g (1% DV)
  • Protein: 19g (38% DV)
  • Calcium: 9mg (1% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (6% DV)
  • Potassium: 197mg (4% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrient information may vary depending on ingredients used. Consult a medical professional if following a restrictive diet.

Comments

France Cevallos

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I have to admit I'm not a huge fan of drumsticks, but these were fantastic! The grilling time was spot on. They were done around 20 minutes in, and I flipped them every 5 minutes for even grilling. I used medium heat with the lid closed. I let them sit for a few minutes on the grill to keep warm after I turned it off, while I finished the rest of the meal. I was worried these might be too salty because of the ranch dressing, but they came out super flavorful. I'd just hold off on adding any additional salt until serving, just in case.

Tyler Wilson

05/12/2025 02:37:15 AM

This recipe is a total win.

Daniel Martin

04/04/2025 06:48:20 PM

Quick and easy, yet delicious.

SereneWheat8340

06/20/2024 02:11:10 AM

We made no changes to this recipe, as it was our first attempt....it was absolutely fantastic and very easy to make!! We used it on drumsticks, thighs, and wings. Great flavor - not too spicy at all. We will definitely make this again!