Smoked Chicken Lollipops

Why You’ll Love Smoked Chicken Lollipops Recipe

I like this recipe because it combines smoky, spicy, and savory flavors in one perfectly portable bite. I enjoy how the low-and-slow smoking keeps the chicken juicy while building deep flavor. I also love how the garlic buffalo sauce adds heat, richness, and just enough sweetness to balance everything out.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Chicken:
2-3 lbs Chicken Drumsticks
2 tbsp Canola Oil

BBQ Seasoning:
1.5 tbsp Kosher Salt
1 tbsp Garlic Powder
1 tbsp Smoked Paprika
1 tbsp Mustard Powder
2 tsp Black Pepper
1.5 tsp Onion Powder
1.5 tsp Chile Powder
½ tsp Cayenne

Garlic Buffalo Sauce:
1 cup Hot Sauce cayenne based
⅛ cup White Vinegar
3 tbsp Minced Garlic
2 tbsp Unsalted Butter
1.5 tbsp Honey
1 tbsp Sauce
1.5 tsp Cayenne Powder
Kosher Salt to taste

Directions

I start by making a cut about one-third of the way down each drumstick toward the knuckle. I slice all the way around, then pull the meat and skin down until the bone is exposed. I trim away any excess tendons and press the meat down firmly to form the lollipop shape. I repeat this process with all the drumsticks and wrap a little foil around the exposed bones if I want to prevent burning.

I combine all the BBQ seasoning ingredients in a bowl and mix them well. I lightly coat the chicken with canola oil, then season the meat generously on all sides. I set the chicken aside while I prepare the smoker.

I preheat my smoker to 275°F for indirect cooking and add wood chunks or chips for extra smoke flavor. I place the chicken on a smoker rack and cook for about 2 to 2½ hours, until the internal temperature reaches around 175°F.

When the chicken is almost done, I start the sauce by melting the butter in a saucepan. I add the minced garlic and let it brown gently for about 2 to 2½ minutes. I stir in the hot sauce, vinegar, honey, sauce, cayenne powder, and salt. I let the sauce simmer for 10 to 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

I remove the sauce from the heat and pour it into a deep cup. I carefully dip each chicken lollipop into the sauce until fully coated, letting any excess drip off. I place the sauced chicken back on the smoker rack and let it cook for another 5 minutes.

Once done, I pull the chicken off the smoker, let it rest for 2 to 3 minutes, and serve while hot.

Servings and Timing

I make this recipe to serve about 4 people. Prep time takes me around 1 hour, cook time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and the total time comes to roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the buffalo sauce for a honey BBQ glaze when I want something sweeter. I also like adding extra smoked paprika to the rub for deeper smoke flavor. When I want more heat, I increase the cayenne slightly in both the seasoning and the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover chicken lollipops in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them gently in the oven or smoker until heated through, brushing with extra sauce if needed to keep them juicy.

FAQs

Why are they called chicken lollipops?

I shape the drumsticks so the meat sits at one end, making them easy to hold and eat like a lollipop.

Do I have to smoke them?

I prefer smoking for flavor, but I’ve cooked them in the oven with good results.

What wood works best for smoking?

I like using apple or hickory for a balanced smoke flavor.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

I often make the sauce earlier and gently reheat it before dipping.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

I use a thermometer and aim for around 175°F for tender meat.

Can I make these less spicy?

I reduce the cayenne and use a milder hot sauce when I want less heat.

Should I wrap the bones with foil?

I do this when cooking longer to keep the bones from darkening too much.

Can I grill these instead?

I’ve grilled them over indirect heat, finishing with direct heat carefully.

Are these good for parties?

I make these often for gatherings because they’re easy to grab and eat.

What should I serve with them?

I like serving them with ranch or blue cheese dressing and simple sides.

Conclusion

I keep these Smoked Chicken Lollipops in my rotation because they’re flavorful, fun, and always a hit. I love the combination of smoky chicken and bold garlic buffalo sauce, and I enjoy serving a dish that looks impressive but feels relaxed and approachable.