Name: Grilled Harissa Chicken Drumsticks
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 8 Chicken Drumsticks; salt & pepper; 1/4 cup harissa paste; 3 tbsp lemon juice (1 lemon); 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp mint leaves (chopped)

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This Grilled Harissa Chicken recipe is a delicious change from the standard barbecue sauce for these drumsticks. They're a little sweet, a little spicy, and a whole lot of flavour.

Why Drumsticks?

Chicken drumsticks are juicy and tender and the ultimate finger food, loved by both kids and adults. You can slather them with an endless variety of sauces. (Try Grilled Jerk Chicken Drumsticks, Tandoori Chicken Drumsticks or Smoky Tea Marinated Chicken Drumsticks for just a few examples.) Drums stand up to grilling very well without drying out.

Drumsticks are quick to cook and also very economical, so they're perfect for feeding a crowd.

Can I Use Different Chicken Parts In This Recipe?

Although I love drumsticks for this grilled harissa chicken recipe because the crispy skin covering juicy, tender meat is irresistible, any chicken parts can be used. Skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs are another good choice. You can also use chicken breasts, but if possible, choose bone-in breasts with the skin for the grill. And keep in mind that chicken breasts, because they are white meat and very lean, will require less cooking time. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are not ideal, as they will have a tendency to be dry as opposed to juicy.

Can I Make It In the Oven Instead of Grilling?

Maybe you don't have a grill. Or maybe the weather isn't ideal for cooking outside. That won't be a problem because you can get the same results, minus the grill marks, using the oven. Put the chicken on a baking sheet and roast on high heat (425°) for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through. The high oven temperature will result in crispy skin.

30-35 minutes in the oven should bring the internal temperature to 165°. At that point, slather on your sauce and return to the oven for a further 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature is 175°-180°.

How To Tell What Temperature Your Chicken is At

If you don't have a meat thermometer, you need to get one. Many recipes talk about cooking 'until the juices run clear". However, food safety is very important, and a thermometer is just the only way to ensure that the chicken is properly cooked. Getting a meat thermometer is a very inexpensive purchase and it's worth it.

A meat thermometer will also give you precisely the result that you are looking for, yielding the most tender and delicious chicken. Or any meat for that matter. Most meat thermometers will have temperatures for rare, medium or well-done meats. Learn more about the proper use of a meat thermometer here: Using a Meat Thermometer

About Harissa Paste

Harissa is a delicious hot chilli paste condiment from North Africa. The paste is made by roasting peppers and hot chiles, then pureeing them along with garlic, lemon, and spices like cumin and caraway. I use my own recipe because it's very easy to make. If you want to try making your own, check out that recipe: Harissa Paste

You don't have to make your own for these grilled harissa drumsticks, though, because harissa paste is quite easy to find in grocery stores and you can also buy it online.

Tips For Perfect Grilled Drumsticks

Drumsticks are perfect for the grill. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when grilling them.

First of all, be sure to pat your chicken dry with paper towel before seasoning them. This will ensure a crispy skin, which is what we are aiming for.
Don't baste the chicken in the sauce until the end of cooking, to avoid burning.
Heat your grill to 375° and make sure it is very well oiled.
Start your drumsticks on direct heat, turning often, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, abut 30 minutes
Watch for flare-ups, as chicken drumsticks do have skin which can catch the flames
Finish the chicken on indirect heat, basting with sauce, and allow to cook until the internal temperature is 175°- 180°F, about 10 minutes

Delicious Side Dishes for Chicken

The chicken may be the star of the plate, but you always need side dishes, too. We love Cajun Corn on the Cob, Sautéed Green Beans With Lemon & Garlic, Cabbage Stir-Fry, or Cauliflower Fried Rice. And if you just want to keep it simple, serve your grilled chicken with a salad. Since you're grilling anyway, give this delicious Grilled Halloumi & Watermelon Salad a try, or maybe Grilled Corn & Black Bean Salad.

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