Grilled Chicken Lollipops
Get ready for a twist on a backyard favorite with my Grilled Chicken Lollipops! These aren't your average grilled treats. I start with pre-frenched chicken drumsticks, marinated in a blend of spices and herbs that pack each bite with flavor. After marinating, I slow-grill these beauties over indirect heat to keep them juicy on the inside while getting that irresistible crispy skin on the outside. Finished with a brush of tangy barbecue sauce for that perfect sticky sweetness, these lollipops are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a party or just spicing up a family dinner, these chicken lollipops promise to steal the show.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Lollipops:
12 pre-frenched chicken drumsticks, brined overnight
2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Marinade:
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust according to heat preference)
For Serving:
Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
Lemon wedges
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
Remove the brined chicken lollipops from the brine, rinse under cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.
Lightly coat each drumstick with olive oil and generously apply your favorite poultry rub.
Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, smoked paprika, and chili flakes to create the marinade.
Prepare the Grill for Two-Zone Cooking:
Heat charcoal in your kettle grill and arrange it on one side to create distinct hot direct and cooler indirect cooking zones.
Grill the Chicken Lollipops:
Place the seasoned chicken lollipops on the cooler, indirect heat side of the grill. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are mostly cooked through.
Transfer the lollipops to the direct heat side and baste with the marinade. Grill for another 5-10 minutes, turning and basting frequently, until the chicken is well caramelized and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Rest and Garnish:
Transfer the grilled chicken lollipops to a serving platter. Tent with foil and let rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro.
Serve:
Serve the grilled chicken lollipops with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Sheed Tips:
The overnight brining process helps to keep the chicken moist and tender during grilling, enhancing the natural flavors.
Adjust the heat of your grill as needed; the two-zone method allows for precise control, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.
The basting marinade adds a final touch of flavor, enriching the already well-seasoned meat with a sweet and tangy glaze.
This recipe for Grilled Chicken Lollipops takes advantage of the two-zone grilling technique to deliver succulent, flavor-packed bites that are perfect for any barbecue or family gathering. Enjoy the complex flavors from the overnight brine and savory rub, complemented by the zesty homemade marinade.