This recipe combines the sweet richness of maple syrup with the bold flavors of Three Little Pigs rubs and sauces, creating a perfectly sticky, smoky, and slightly spicy glaze for juicy chicken drumsticks.
Ingredients:
- 8-10 chicken drumsticks
- ¼ cup maple syrup (preferably dark, rich maple syrup)
- 2 tbsp Three Little Pigs Competition BBQ Sauce (or Spicy Chipotle for extra heat)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Three Little Pigs Kansas City All-Purpose Rub
- 1 tsp Three Little Pigs Championship BBQ Rub (for extra depth)
Instructions:
- Prep the Drumsticks:
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels.
- Lightly coat them with a little olive oil to help the rub stick.
- Evenly season them with Three Little Pigs Spicy Honey Maple and a touch of the Championship BBQ Rub.
- Make the Maple Glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the maple syrup, Three Little Pigs BBQ Sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, melted butter, Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a light simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Grill the Drumsticks:
- Set your smoker or grill to 275°F for indirect cooking. Use cherry or hickory wood for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for 45-50 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Glaze & Finish:
- After about 35-40 minutes, start brushing the drumsticks with the maple glaze, turning every 5 minutes to build layers of sticky goodness.
- Continue cooking until the internal temperature hits 175-180°F for juicy, tender meat.
- Caramelize the Glaze:
- For a final charred and caramelized finish, crank the heat to 350°F or move the drumsticks to direct heat for the last 5 minutes, brushing with any remaining glaze.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Sprinkle a little extra Championship BBQ Rub on top for a final flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with grilled corn on the cob or smoked mac & cheese.
- Serve with a side of extra Three Little Pigs BBQ Sauce for dipping.
These sticky, smoky, sweet drumsticks are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at your next cookout! 🔥
Chris Marks Chief BBQ Expert (CBBQE) Three Little Pigs Rubs & Sauces
