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the perfect chicken drumsticks

Chili Lime Chicken Drumsticks with Garlic Cilantro Butter

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • - 3 lbs chicken drumsticks
  • - 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • - 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • - 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • - 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • - 1 teaspoon paprika
  • - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • - ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • - 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • - 8 oz unsalted butter softened
  • - 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
  • - 3 garlic cloves minced
  • - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice for butter
  • - ½ teaspoon kosher salt for butter

Method
 

  1. Pat drumsticks dry and coat with chili lime seasoning mixture. Marinate 30 minutes to 4 hours.
  2. Prepare garlic cilantro butter by mixing softened butter with herbs, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Preheat grill to 375°F with two-zone setup (direct and indirect heat areas).
  4. Sear drumsticks over direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely marked.
  5. Move to indirect heat, cover, and cook 20-25 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Baste with garlic cilantro butter during last 10 minutes. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

- Can be baked at 425°F for 35-40 minutes instead of grilling
- Marinating longer (up to 4 hours) develops better flavor
- Use meat thermometer to ensure doneness at 165°F internal temperature

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