Grilled Honey Lime Glazed Chicken Drumsticks with Pineapple Salsa

These chicken drumsticks are coated in a sweet and tangy honey lime glaze, then grilled until caramelized and juicy. Paired with a fresh tropical pineapple salsa, they deliver the perfect balance of savory, spicy, and fruity flavors in every bite. The smoky char of the drumsticks plays beautifully with the sweet and acidic pineapple salsa. Ready in 30 minutes, this easy grilled chicken is ideal for summertime dinners or parties. The vibrant salsa makes an already delicious main dish totally irresistible.

Ingredients

To make 4 servings, you will need:

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1⁄3 cup honey
• 1⁄4 cup lime juice
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1⁄2 cup diced red onion
• 1 jalapeno, minced
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

These flavorful grilled chicken drumsticks come together quickly:

1. In a bowl, combine honey, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, chili powder and black pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat. Let marinate 15-30 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, onion, jalapeno, cilantro and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt. Mix and set aside.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with extra glaze, until cooked through.
4. Serve chicken drumsticks topped with pineapple salsa. Enjoy!

Choosing High Quality Ingredients

For the best flavored chicken drumsticks and salsa, choose:

Chicken

• Fresh, never frozen drumsticks.
• Skin-on for added flavor.
• Free-range, organic if available.
• Patted dry before grilling.

Produce

• Fresh ripe pineapple, never canned.
• Bright red onion and jalapeno.
• Bright, fresh cilantro.
• Limes should feel heavy for their size.

Seasonings

• Real honey for sweetness and glazing.
• Lime juice for acidity to balance the honey.
• Soy sauce for depth of flavor.
• Garlic, chili powder, salt and pepper.

Quality ingredients mean letting the fresh flavors shine through.

Marinating the Chicken

A good marinade is key. Be sure to:

• Mix all marinade ingredients together well.
• Coat drumsticks thoroughly.
• Let marinate 15-30 minutes, no longer.
• Reserve some marinade for basting.
• Discard leftovers after to avoid contamination.

The marinade firms up the chicken and infuses big flavor.

Grilling the Chicken

For perfectly grilled chicken:

• Use medium-high heat, about 375-450°F.
• Grill skin-side down first.
• Cook 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally.
• Brush with reserved marinade several times.
• Cook until juices run clear when pierced.
• Don't overcook or chicken will be dry.

Proper grilling ensures juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

Making the Pineapple Salsa

For fresh, vibrant salsa:

• Small dice the pineapple, onion, jalapeno, cilantro.
• Gently combine ingredients in a bowl.
• Add lime juice and season with salt.
• Let flavors meld for 10 minutes before serving.
• Start with 1 jalapeno, add more if you like heat.
• Mango, peach, or nectarine also work.

The sweet and spicy salsa balances the savory chicken perfectly.

Serving Suggestions

Try serving the chicken drumsticks with:

• Mexican style rice or beans.
• Warmed corn tortillas.
• Guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa.
• Grilled corn on the cob.
• Shredded cheese, sour cream.
• Chopped cilantro, lime wedges.

The possibilities are endless for creative tacos or bowls.

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftovers properly by:

• Refrigerating chicken and salsa separately.
• Chicken keeps 3-4 days, salsa 2-3 days.
• Reheating chicken gently in the microwave or oven.
• Stir salsa to redistribute juices before serving.
• Use extra chicken in salads, sandwiches, tacos.

With the right storage, the flavors stay fresh and leftovers can be repurposed.

Nutrition Facts

These drumsticks offer:

• Lean protein from chicken to support muscles.
• Vitamin C, antioxidants from pineapple salsa.
• Anti-inflammatory benefits from ginger and chili.
• Iron, zinc, selenium, and B vitamins from chicken.
• Prebiotic fiber and enzymes from honey.

Pair with veggies or salad for a balanced, nutrient-packed meal.

Conclusion

These honey lime glazed chicken drumsticks are bursting with sweet, savory, smoky flavor. A zingy marinade firms up the juicy chicken while basting it with citrus and spice. Charred and caramelized on the grill, then paired with fresh pineapple salsa, they offer an irresistible balance of flavors. Ready in just 30 minutes, they make backyard barbecues, summer dinners, or weeknight meals an absolute breeze. For fuss-free finger food that’s packed with taste, fire up these drumsticks on the grill.

5 Frequently Asked Questions about Grilled Chicken

1. What is the best cut of chicken for grilling?

Bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks work great. The bone helps keep meat moist, and skin adds flavor.

2. What temperature should you grill chicken to?

Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F when fully cooked.

3. Can you grill chicken that is partially frozen?

No, chicken should be fully thawed before grilling. Place in the refrigerator 1-2 days to thaw.

4. What sides go well with grilled chicken?

Grilled veggies like zucchini, potatoes, or peppers pair nicely. Pasta salads, coleslaw, and corn on the cob also complement it.

5. How long does cooked chicken last refrigerated?

Refrigerate grilled chicken within 2 hours of cooking and use within 3-4 days for food safety and quality.