Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks are a mouthwatering dish; it’s a simple yet impressive recipe perfect for barbecues or casual gatherings.

The sweet and savory teriyaki flavor is complemented by the smokiness from the grill, resulting in a deliciously charred and glazed exterior. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for added freshness, enhancing the overall appeal of this flavorful dish.

What Is Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki chicken has its origins in Japanese cuisine. The word “teriyaki” combines ‘teri,’ which refers to the shine or gloss given by the sweet-sugary coat or sauce, and ‘yaki,’ meaning grilling or broiling. Teriyaki-style dishes, with their sweet and savory flavor, have become popular worldwide, making them a well-loved and versatile dish beyond its Japanese origins.

Ingredients for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

• Chicken Drumsticks: Serving as the main protein, 5-6 drumsticks with the skin removed.
• Coconut Aminos: Adds savory, and umami flavor, also provides lower sodium content.
• Garlic: Minced (not pressed), adds depth, richness and enhances flavor with a pungent aroma.
• Seasonings: Salt and Black Pepper. To balance the sweetness, while pepper adds a bit of heat.
• Avocado Oil: Great high-smoke oil for high-heat cooking brings a mild, buttery flavor to the dish.
• Garnishes (Optional): Chopped parsley, green onions, or sesame seeds can be added if desired.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks Recipe

• 1.75 lbs. chicken drumsticks, about 5-6 pieces (4oz/130g each)              
• ¾ cup (180ml/194.4g) coconut aminos secret soy-free or regular soy sauce
• 1-3 cloves garlic (3-9g), peeled and minced (not pressed)
• ½ teaspoon (2g) pink or kosher salt, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon (0.6g) ground peppercorns blend or black pepper, to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) avocado oil, more if needed
• 1 tablespoon (3g) chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon (3g) toasted white sesame seeds, for garnish

Recommended Equipment

• Non-porous container or zipper bag to marinate the drumsticks.
• Grill: Gas or charcoal grills are both great options for grilling chicken drumsticks.
• Ninja Foodi Grill: A convenient and quick indoor grill option for grilling chicken drumsticks.

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks

Prepare the Drumsticks: Optionally, remove skins from chicken drumsticks by pulling on the skin towards you using a paper towel. Then, place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow non-porous dish.

Teriyaki Marinade: In a measuring cup, mix coconut aminos sauce, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Pour the marinade over the drumsticks, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or longer for enhanced flavor.

Coat in Oil: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Season with salt and black pepper, and coat them in avocado oil.

Grilling Methods:

Gas or Charcoal Grill: Grill the drumsticks, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char, typically taking around 20-25 minutes. In the last few minutes of grilling, baste the drumsticks with additional teriyaki sauce for extra flavor.

Ninja Grill: Insert the grill grate into the unit and close the hood. Select GRILL, set it to HIGH, and set the time to 7-10 minutes. Press START/STOP to begin preheating. When the unit beeps and displays ADD FOOD, place the drumsticks on the grill grate with spacing in between. Close the hood and grill the drumsticks for 5 minutes, then flip them over and continue grilling for the remaining 2-5 minutes.

Basting Tip: When basting in the last few minutes of grilling, do so sparingly to avoid flare-ups. Basting adds a final layer of flavor and glossiness to the drumsticks.

Resting Time: Once the drumsticks’ internal temperature reaches about 160°F (71°C), remove them from the grill. Tent them with heavy-duty aluminum foil and allow them to rest until fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 5-10 minutes.

Resting Tip: Let the drumsticks rest after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute. Tenting with aluminum foil helps retain heat and ensures the chicken reaches its final safe internal temperature.

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped fresh parsley, or green onions for added freshness and texture.

Serve the grilled teriyaki chicken drumsticks hot, and enjoy the deliciously glazed and flavorful dish!

Recipe Tips for Best Results

• Marinate the drumsticks for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
• Flavor: Ensure drumsticks are well-coated with marinade for maximum flavor absorption.
• Grilling: For gas or charcoal grills, maintain a medium-high heat for beautiful char.
• Indoor Grill: Always preheat your grill and follow the manual instructions.
• Juicy: Remove drumsticks from the grill when internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
• Basting adds extra juiciness and flavor; also gives a glossy finish to the drumsticks.
• Resting helps retain heat, allows juices to redistribute, and ensures juicy and flavorful meat.

Storing & Serving

Regardless of the method chosen, reheating can result in slightly drier chicken than the initial cooking.

Make-Ahead: Prepare and marinate the drumsticks a day ahead. Grill them when ready to serve.

Meal-Prep: Separate meat from the bone, coat it in teriyaki sauce, and serve it over steamed rice.

Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container (4.7-cup fits 6 pieces) for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat:

• Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) in an oven-safe dish, covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Grill or Stovetop: Reheat drumsticks on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot.
• Microwave: Cover with a microwave-safe cover or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds to 1 minute), checking and flipping the drumsticks until they reach the desired temperature.

Yields: 2 pounds / 24 ounces of 5-6 drumsticks (approximately 4 ounces / 130 grams each)
Servings: 4 servings, with 1-2 drumsticks per serving

Serving Suggestions

• Rice Bowl: Serve over steamed rice with broccoli or carrots, and drizzle with teriyaki sauce.
• Stir-fry: Toss with colorful stir-fried veggies to complement the savory flavor.
• Bento Box: Arrange in a Japanese-inspired bento box with sides and vegetables.
• Garnishes: Add a burst of freshness, color, and a bright contrast to the flavor.
• Sauce: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for sweet and tangy options.

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