Print

Flavorful Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks

cilantro lime grilled chicken drumsticks - featured image
Print Recipe

These grilled chicken drumsticks are marinated in a zesty cilantro lime mixture, delivering a perfect balance of tangy, herby, and smoky flavors. Easy to prepare and perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8–10 chicken drumsticks, skin-on and bone-in
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Juice of 2 large limes (about ¼ cup)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Place chicken drumsticks in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to 4 hours (2 hours recommended).
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F). Clean and lightly oil grill grates.
  4. Grill drumsticks for 12-15 minutes per side, turning every 5 minutes to avoid burning, until skin is crisp and charred in spots.
  5. Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If no thermometer, cut into one piece to ensure juices run clear.
  6. Remove drumsticks from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  7. Serve garnished with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for about 2 hours for best flavor without breaking down the meat texture. Pat chicken dry before grilling to avoid flare-ups. Use two-zone grilling to prevent burning. Turn frequently every 5 minutes. Rest chicken after grilling for juicy results. Leftover marinade can be used for basting during the first half of grilling. If skin chars too quickly, move drumsticks to cooler part of grill or reduce heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, grilled chicken drumsticks, easy chicken recipe, zesty chicken, barbecue chicken, summer grilling, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/flavorful-cilantro-lime-grilled-chicken-drumsticks-easy-zesty-recipe/