Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut around the base of each drumstick to remove the skin and tendons. Push the meat upward to form a 'lollipop' shape, trimming any excess for a neat look.
- Optional: If you want extra flavor, mix your Peruvian chicken marinade ingredients, cover the chicken, and let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Lightly coat the chicken with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere.
- In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This blend will enhance the chicken’s flavor profile.
- Coat each chicken lollipop liberally with the spice mixture, ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
Cooking
- Set your smoker to 250°F and use a mild wood such as cherry or apple. These will add a subtle sweetness to the smoke.
- Arrange the chicken on the smoker grate, ensuring they are spaced apart. Smoke the drumsticks for 90 minutes to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Increase the grill temperature to 425°F. In a saucepan over medium heat, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and melted butter, stirring until smooth.
- Dip each chicken lollipop into the glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated. Return them to the smoker for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize and set.
- Once the internal temperature reaches 175-180°F, remove the lollipops from the smoker. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Notes
Experiment with different types of wood chips for smoking; hickory and mesquite offer a bolder flavor, while fruit woods create a sweeter profile. For even crispier skin, consider placing the drumsticks directly over a hot grill for a few minutes after smoking. Overnight marination allows the flavors to penetrate deeper.
