There’s something magical about summer evenings, isn’t there? The smell of grilled food wafting through the air, friends gathered around, and laughter echoing in the background. I love making grilled chicken drumsticks with fresh salad during these balmy nights—it’s such a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the outdoors! The juicy, smoky flavor of the drumsticks paired with a crisp, refreshing salad makes for a perfect meal that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Just a handful of ingredients and a hot grill, and you’re ready to dig in. Trust me, once you try this combo, it’ll become a staple in your summer cooking lineup. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!
Ingredients List
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
How to Prepare Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad
Preparing the Chicken Drumsticks
First things first, let’s get that grill fired up! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat; this is super important because it helps achieve that delicious, charred flavor we all love. While it’s heating up, grab a bowl and mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture is going to coat our chicken and give it fantastic flavor. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Next, take those chicken drumsticks and coat them evenly with your flavorful mixture. Make sure every inch is covered—this is where the magic happens! Now, it’s time to place the drumsticks on the grill. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. I always like to have a meat thermometer handy to avoid any guesswork—it’s a game changer!
Making the Fresh Salad
While the chicken is grilling, let’s whip up that fresh salad! Start by washing your mixed greens thoroughly. I like to use a salad spinner to get rid of excess water, but you can also just pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced cucumber. This colorful combo not only looks beautiful but also adds a lovely crunch!
Now, here comes the fun part—drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and give it a gentle toss to combine everything. Make sure all the greens are coated without being soggy. You can always add more dressing later if needed. Once your chicken is ready, serve those juicy drumsticks alongside your vibrant salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes! Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your grilled chicken drumsticks with fresh salad, don’t skip marinating! If you have time, let the drumsticks soak in that olive oil, garlic, and paprika mixture for at least an hour—this will deepen the flavors even more. Also, when grilling, keep an eye on the temperature. If your grill gets too hot, you might end up with burnt outsides and raw insides, which is no fun! I usually keep a spray bottle of water nearby just in case I need to tame any flare-ups.
As for the salad, feel free to get creative! You can toss in some avocado, bell peppers, or even nuts for added crunch. And if you’re looking for a twist, try swapping the balsamic vinaigrette for a zesty lemon dressing or a creamy ranch. The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about what you love!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to grilled chicken drumsticks with fresh salad, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without the guilt! Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional values for a serving size of 2 drumsticks with salad:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on cooking methods and additional ingredients. But isn’t it nice to know you’re fueling your body with something delicious and nutritious? Enjoy your meal with peace of mind!
FAQ Section
Can I bake the chicken drumsticks instead of grilling them?
Absolutely! If you don’t have access to a grill, you can bake the drumsticks in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through. Just make sure they reach that lovely internal temperature of 165°F!
What can I substitute for the balsamic vinaigrette?
No problem at all! If balsamic isn’t your jam, you can use any dressing you love—like a tangy lemon vinaigrette, creamy ranch, or even a zesty Italian dressing. It’s all about what flavors you enjoy!
How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), store the chicken and salad separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken can last for about 3-4 days, while the salad is best enjoyed fresh, so try to eat it within a day.
Can I use skinless chicken drumsticks?
Yes, you can! Skinless drumsticks will still be delicious, but they might not have that crispy exterior you get from the skin. Just watch the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is! All the ingredients used in grilled chicken drumsticks with fresh salad are gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, paprika, and olive oil creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor.
- Fresh and Healthy: Paired with a vibrant salad, you’re getting a nutritious meal that’s light yet satisfying—perfect for those warm summer days.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies for the salad or experiment with different marinades, making it a versatile dish for any palate.
- Grilling Goodness: There’s nothing quite like the smoky char from the grill that elevates the chicken to a whole new level of deliciousness.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these juicy drumsticks, making it a hit for family dinners or summer barbecues.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving grilled chicken drumsticks with fresh salad, the possibilities are endless! I love to keep things simple but satisfying, so here are a few ideas to elevate your meal experience:
- Roasted Vegetables: Try pairing your chicken with some seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The caramelized flavors complement the smoky chicken beautifully!
- Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread or a crispy baguette can be the perfect side to soak up any delicious juices. Plus, who doesn’t love garlic bread?
- Potato Salad: For a classic summer vibe, whip up a creamy potato salad. It adds a comforting touch and pairs well with the fresh salad.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with berries, melons, and citrus can contrast nicely with the savory flavors of the chicken. It’s refreshing and oh-so-sweet!
- Cold Beverages: Don’t forget to serve it all with a chilled beverage! Whether it’s iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine, a refreshing drink can really enhance your outdoor dining experience.
Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or your personal favorites. The goal is to create a meal that you and your guests will savor! Enjoy every bite and cheers to delicious summer meals!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For tips on grilling, you can refer to this grilling safety guide.
Print
Grilled Chicken Drumsticks with Fresh Salad for Summer Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Grilled chicken drumsticks served with a fresh salad.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken drumsticks with the mixture.
- Place drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber.
- Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
- Serve grilled chicken drumsticks with fresh salad on the side.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for extra flavor if desired.
- Cook chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 drumsticks with salad
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: grilled chicken drumsticks, fresh salad