Go Back
smoked chicken drumsticks

Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking Chicken Drumsticks

Learn to make juicy, flavorful smoked chicken drumsticks with expert tips, smoking times, and techniques for perfect BBQ results
Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • Smoker or pellet grill
  • Meat thermometer
  • Drip tray (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 8-10 chicken drumsticks
  • Dry rub or marinade
  • Wood chips or pellets based on your smoker

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep the Smoker

  • Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
  • Add your preferred wood chips or pellets.

Step 2: Prepare the Drumsticks

  • Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels.
  • Apply the dry rub or marinade thoroughly.
  • Let them rest at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Smoke the Drumsticks

  • Place the drumsticks on the smoker rack, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
  • Smoke for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Crisp the Skin (Optional)

  • For extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 375°F for the last 10 minutes.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  • Let the drumsticks rest for 5-10 minutes to retain their juices.
  • Serve with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.
Keyword Smoked Chicken Drumsticks