Smoked Gochujang Chicken Drumsticks Recipe: A Bold and Flavorful Twist

Are you craving a dish that's smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor? Look no further! These Smoked Gochujang Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect blend of Korean-inspired heat and BBQ goodness. The smoky aroma from the grill and the spicy sweetness of gochujang create an explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more. In this post, we’ll guide you through an easy-to-follow recipe, perfect for BBQ parties or a simple family dinner. Let’s dive into the ingredients, processes, and tips to make your gochujang drumsticks stand out! 

Table of Contents 

1. Why You’ll Love This Recipe 
2. What is Gochujang? 
3. Ingredients for Smoked Gochujang Chicken Drumsticks 
4. Step-by-Step Instructions 
5. Pairing Smoked Drumsticks with Coconut Coffee and Jidori Chicken 
6. Tips for Perfect Smoked Drumsticks 
7. Final Thoughts 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe 

These smoked gochujang chicken drumsticks are: 

• Boldly flavored: The spicy and slightly sweet gochujang adds a unique depth to the dish. 
• Perfect for BBQ lovers: The smoked element gives these drumsticks a rich, smoky flavor. 
• Easy to prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready swiftly. 
• Healthy: Chicken drumsticks are a lean source of protein, and the minimal oil used makes it a more nutritious option for deep-fried alternatives. 

What is Gochujang? 

Gochujang is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. It’s a fermented chili paste made from red chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. This versatile condiment adds depth and heat to dishes, making it the perfect partner for smoked chicken drumsticks. You can find gochujang in most grocery stores or online. It’s often used in marinades, sauces, and soups for an extra kick of flavor. 

Ingredients for Smoked Gochujang Chicken Drumsticks 

Here’s what you’ll need to create these smoky, spicy chicken drumsticks:

For the Marinade: 

• 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean red chili paste) 
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 
• 2 tablespoons honey (for sweetness) 
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated 
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added smokiness) 
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish) 

For the Chicken: 

• 8 chicken drumsticks 
• Salt, to taste 
• Olive oil, for brushing the grill

Step-by-Step Instructions 

Preparing the Marinade 

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine: 

• Gochujang 
• Soy sauce 
• Honey 
• Sesame oil 
• Garlic 
• Rice vinegar 
• Grated ginger 
• Smoked paprika 
• Black pepper 

Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth. The marinade should be a rich, sticky paste with a balance of sweetness, heat, and umami. 

Marinating the Chicken 

• Prepare the chicken drumsticks by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. 
• Coat the drumsticks with the gochujang marinade, ensuring they are well-covered. 
• Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours (overnight for best results) to allow the flavors to penetrate. 

Smoking the Drumsticks 

• Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a grill with indirect heat. 
• Add your favorite wood chips (hickory or applewood work great for a sweet, smoky flavor). 
• To prevent the chicken from sticking, apply olive oil to the grill grates. 
• Place the drumsticks on the smoker or grill, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking. 
• Smoke the chicken for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). 
• Flip the drumsticks halfway through cooking to ensure even smoking and a crispy exterior. 

Serving the Drumsticks 

Once your drumsticks are perfectly smoked and cooked through: 

• Remove them from the smoker. 
• Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. 
• Serve hot with your favorite sides such as grilled vegetables, rice, or kimchi.

Pairing Smoked Drumsticks with Coconut Coffee and Jidori Chicken 

For those who love exploring new flavors, why not pair these Smoked Gochujang Chicken Drumsticks with coconut coffee? The rich, creamy taste of coconut coffee perfectly complements the smoky, spicy notes of the gochujang chicken. The nutty flavor from the coconut adds an exciting layer of taste that pairs well with bold BBQ flavors. 

Additionally, if you're a fan of high-quality, natural chicken, you can make this recipe using Jidori chicken. Jidori chicken is known for its freshness and superior flavor because the birds are raised free-range with no hormones or preservatives. The purity and natural taste of Jidori chicken will elevate the recipe, making the drumsticks even more succulent and flavorful. 

Tips for Perfect Smoked Drumsticks 

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure your drumsticks are cooked to perfection. The temperature inside needs to reach 165°F (75°C). 
• Marinate overnight for maximum flavor infusion. 
• Don’t rush the smoking process. Slow smoking at a lower temperature allows the chicken to absorb the smoky flavors fully. 
• Experiment with different wood chips. For a bolder flavor, try mesquite; for a milder taste, applewood is a great option. 

Final Thoughts 

These Smoked Gochujang Chicken Drumsticks are a bold, flavorful twist on your typical BBQ fare. The smoky flavor combined with the spicy, umami-rich gochujang creates a truly unforgettable dish. Pairing them with coconut coffee or Jidori chicken adds a unique spin, making the meal even more special. Whether hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a new way to enjoy chicken, this recipe is impressive. Feel free to try out this recipe and share your feedback in the comments section below.Enjoy your flavorful chicken drumsticks! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead of drumsticks? 

Absolutely! Drumsticks can be interchanged with chicken thighs or wings.Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Thighs might take a bit longer, while wings will cook faster due to their smaller size.

How spicy is gochujang? 

Gochujang has a medium level of heat, balanced by its natural sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of gochujang in the marinade, or add more honey to balance the heat. 

Can I bake the chicken instead of smoking it? 

Yes, if you don’t have a smoker, you can bake the drumsticks in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also broil them for a few minutes at the end for a smoky, crispy finish. 

What can I serve with smoked gochujang chicken drumsticks? 

These drumsticks pair well with a variety of sides. Try serving them with grilled vegetables, jasmine rice, or a fresh salad. For a unique pairing, consider serving them with coconut coffee to balance the smoky, spicy flavors. 

What makes Jidori chicken different? 

Jidori chicken is known for its freshness, free-range upbringing, and lack of hormones or preservatives. This makes it more tender and flavorful compared to regular chicken, adding an extra layer of quality to your smoked gochujang drumsticks. 

How long should I marinate the chicken? 

For best results, marinate the drumsticks for at least 2 hours. However, if you have time, marinating overnight will allow the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, making it even more flavorful.