Lemon Herb Marinated BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Tender grilled chicken drumsticks infused with bright lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and Dijon mustard create a flavorful marinade that penetrates the meat. The combination of thyme and rosemary adds Mediterranean flair while the mustard provides tangy depth. Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or casual entertaining when you want juicy, well-seasoned chicken with minimal effort. The simple marinade transforms basic drumsticks into something special, and the suggested pairing with mesquite beans creates a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Mix Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, salt and pepper in large bowl
- 2
Whisk in olive oil until well combined
- 3
Add chicken pieces and stir to coat with marinade
- 4
Cover with plastic wrap and marinate at least 30 minutes up to overnight
- 5
Preheat grill to medium heat and grease with oil
- 6
Remove chicken from marinade using tongs and place on hot grill
- 7
Grill about 5 minutes per side, turning 4 times to brown all sides
- 8
Remove from grill when cooked through and let rest 10 minutes
- 9
Serve with mesquite beans and salad
Tips
Score the skin lightly before marinating to help flavors penetrate deeper into the meat
Use a meat thermometer to ensure drumsticks reach 165°F internal temperature for food safety
Let chicken come to room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling for more even cooking
Good to Know
refrigerate up to 3 days cooked
marinate up to 24 hours
serve immediately after resting
Common Mistakes
preheat grill properly to avoid sticking
don't skip resting time to avoid dry meat
turn frequently to prevent burning
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken instead of drumsticks?
Yes, but reduce cooking time to 6-8 minutes total as boneless pieces cook faster than bone-in drumsticks.
What if I don't have fresh lemon juice?
Bottled lemon juice works but fresh provides better flavor. Use the same amount and add extra zest if available.
How long will the cooked chicken keep?
Store in refrigerator up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.