Print

Smoky Bourbon BBQ Chicken Drumsticks with Easy Honey Jalapeño Glaze

smoky bourbon bbq chicken drumsticks - featured image
Print Recipe

This recipe features smoky bourbon-marinated chicken drumsticks coated with a sticky, spicy-sweet honey jalapeño glaze. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or backyard gatherings, it balances heat, smoke, and sweetness effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on
  • 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/3 cup honey (110 g)
  • 1–2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup ketchup (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, bourbon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Toss chicken drumsticks in the mixture until well coated. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
  2. While chicken marinates, combine honey, finely chopped jalapeños, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until warm and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375°F/190°C) or oven to 425°F (220°C). If baking, place a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  4. Arrange drumsticks on grill grates or wire rack. Cook for 12-15 minutes per side, turning occasionally. If baking, bake for 20 minutes, flip, then bake another 10-15 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  5. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the honey jalapeño glaze generously on the drumsticks. Turn and glaze again to build a sticky coating. Watch for flare-ups if grilling.
  6. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer, pierce thickest part and ensure juices run clear.
  7. Let drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes but no longer than 6 hours to avoid texture breakdown. Apply glaze near the end of cooking to prevent burning. Flip drumsticks midway when baking for even crispiness. Use a spray bottle of water to manage flare-ups on the grill. Rest chicken before serving for juicier meat.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoky bourbon chicken, BBQ chicken drumsticks, honey jalapeño glaze, grilled chicken, easy BBQ recipe, spicy sweet chicken

Find it online: https://vexifood.com/smoky-bourbon-bbq-chicken-drumsticks-recipe-easy-honey-jalape-n-o-glaze/