Chicken Lollipops BBQ

Ever tried turning chicken into lollipops? Not the kind you’re thinking, but something even better—Chicken Lollipops BBQ. This finger-lickin’ delight transforms simple chicken wings into a crunchy, juicy feast that’s perfect for any backyard bash. Picture this: tender meat, crispy skin, all slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce. Got your attention? Stick around as we dive into how you can master these tasty treats right at home. Plus, I’ll even throw in some pro tips to elevate your BBQ game. Ready to turn up the heat? Let’s get cooking!

What are Chicken Lollipops BBQ?

Chicken Lollipops BBQ are a creative take on the classic chicken drumstick, where each piece is “Frenched”—a culinary technique where the meat is cut loose from the lower end of the bone and pushed down to create a lollipop-like appearance. Once shaped, these drumsticks can be cooked to your preference, whether grilled or baked, and are typically slathered in a delectable BBQ sauce of your choice.

This preparation not only makes them a hit for their visual appeal but also for the concentrated flavors and ease of eating. They’re perfect as a standout dish at gatherings or a fun twist on your regular BBQ lineup!

What’s the difference between chicken drumsticks and chicken lollipops?

Chicken drumsticks and chicken lollipops are both delicious ways to enjoy chicken, but they differ mainly in preparation and presentation.

Chicken Drumsticks:

These are the lower portion of a chicken leg, which is the part below the thigh. They are typically cooked whole, with the skin on, and can be roasted, grilled, fried, or baked. Drumsticks are straightforward, with the meat left on the bone just as it is, offering a classic, hands-on eating experience.

Chicken Lollipops:

These start as drumsticks but are then transformed through a process called “Frenched.” This involves cutting the meat around the bottom of the drumstick and pushing it up towards the thicker end, exposing the bone and creating a lollipop shape with the meat at one end.

This makes them not only aesthetically pleasing but also easier to handle and eat, especially at social gatherings where they serve as finger food. After shaping, they can be marinated, seasoned, and cooked in various styles, often with added sauces.

The main difference lies in their preparation. While drumsticks are more about the simple joy of biting into juicy chicken with minimal fuss, chicken lollipops offer a more refined, convenient, and often more flavorful bite due to additional seasoning and sauces.

How to make Chicken lollipops BBQ

This Chicken Lollipops BBQ recipe is a delicious twist on traditional grilled chicken, offering a fun and elegant presentation that’s perfect for parties. The “Frenched” drumsticks are marinated, seasoned, and cooked using your preferred method—grilling, baking, or smoking—to infuse them with deep flavors.

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make Chicken Lollipops BBQ:

Preparations:

Step 1: Prep the Drumsticks

• Start by laying a drumstick on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut around the thin, lower end of the drumstick bone to slice through the tendons and meat. Make sure to cut all the way around.

Step 2: Create the Lollipop

• Push the meat down the bone towards the thicker end, scraping the bone clean as you go. This will bunch the meat up at one end of the drumstick, forming a lollipop shape. If the skin is intact, it can be left on to help hold the meat together and add flavor and crispiness.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

• Drizzle olive oil over the prepared lollipops and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for more flavor).

Cooking:

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).

Step 5: Grill the Lollipops

• Place the chicken lollipops on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes on one side, then turn over and cook for another 10-15 minutes on the other side. The goal is to achieve a nice char and ensure that the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Step 6: Apply BBQ Sauce

• In the last few minutes of grilling, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the chicken lollipops using a basting brush. Allow them to caramelize slightly, but be careful to avoid burning the sauce.

Step 7: Final Cook and Serve

• Give the lollipops another minute or two on the grill after applying the sauce to set the flavors. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 8: Serving

• Serve your Chicken Lollipops BBQ hot, garnished with extra BBQ sauce on the side or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch.

How Long to Cook Chicken Lollipops BBQ?

Cooking times for Chicken Lollipops BBQ can vary slightly based on the method you choose and the size of the drumsticks. Here’s a general guide for grilling, baking, and smoking these delicious treats:

Grilling:

• Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, which is about 375°F to 450°F.
• Cook the chicken lollipops for about 25 to 30 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and get nice grill marks.
• Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the lollipop.

Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F.
• Bake the chicken lollipops for about 35 to 40 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
• As with grilling, the final internal temperature should be at least 165°F.

Smoking:

• Preheat your smoker to about 225°F to 250°F.
• Smoke the chicken lollipops for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Smoking involves a lower cooking temperature, which means a longer cooking time.
• It’s crucial to maintain a consistent temperature in your smoker and check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F.

For all methods, applying the BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking allows it to caramelize without burning. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, making them even more flavorful and moist.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Lollipops BBQ are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides, making them ideal for any dining occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to complement their smoky, savory flavors:

1. Coleslaw: A classic choice, coleslaw adds a crunchy, creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crispiness of the chicken.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Serve a mix of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a healthy, colorful side.
3. Corn on the Cob: Brush some butter on fresh corn and grill it until slightly charred for a sweet and smoky side that’s always a hit.
4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad with a hint of mustard complements the BBQ flavors perfectly.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: For a comfort food twist, offer creamy macaroni and cheese as a rich and satisfying side.
6. Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread to mop up any leftover BBQ sauce.
7. Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy sauce for dipping, which allows guests to customize their flavor experience.

Conclusion

Chicken Lollipops BBQ are not just a meal but a showstopper that’s sure to impress at any gathering. This unique take on classic chicken drumsticks combines the fun of finger food with the rich flavors of barbecue. The preparation process might require a bit of extra effort to create that distinctive lollipop shape, but the result is absolutely worth it.

They’re perfect for everything from a casual family cookout to a more formal party setting. Pair these luscious lollipops with sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a creamy potato salad to round out your meal. And don’t forget to have plenty of napkins on hand—these are bound to be a deliciously messy favorite!

So fire up your grill (or oven, or smoker!) and get ready to enjoy a tasty twist on traditional BBQ chicken that your friends and family will request time and again.