How Long Do You Cook Chicken Legs on the Grill? A Complete Guide to Perfectly Grilled Chicken Legs

 When it comes to outdoor cooking, grilling chicken legs is a classic favorite. Whether you're hosting a BBQ, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving something savory, grilled chicken legs can be the perfect meal. However, one common question that arises is how long do you cook chicken legs on the grill? This question is crucial to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly without being dry or overdone.

In this post, we’ll explore the best methods for grilling chicken legs, how long to cook them for the ideal texture, and some additional tips for enhancing their flavor. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will help you grill chicken legs to perfection every time.

Why Chicken Legs?

Before we get into the specifics of grilling, let’s talk about why chicken legs are such a great choice. Chicken legs consist of two parts: the drumstick and the thigh. They are considered dark meat, which makes them more flavorful and juicy compared to white meat cuts like chicken breasts. Not only that, but they are also budget-friendly and easy to prepare.

Chicken legs are great for grilling because they cook well over high heat and can be easily seasoned or marinated for extra flavor. Plus, they have the skin, which crisps up nicely when grilled, adding an appealing texture.

How Long Do You Cook Chicken Legs on the Grill?

The answer to this question can depend on several factors such as the size of the chicken legs, the temperature of the grill, and the method you’re using. However, there are general guidelines you can follow to ensure that your chicken legs are cooked through and have that perfect grilled flavor and texture.

Ideal Grilling Temperature

To cook chicken legs on the grill, you need to preheat your grill to medium heat. The temperature should ideally be around 350-400°F (175-200°C). This temperature allows the chicken legs to cook through properly without burning the skin or drying out the meat.

Step-by-Step Guide: How Long Do You Cook Chicken Legs on the Grill?

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Legs

Before grilling, make sure to prepare your chicken legs properly. Start by patting them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Drying the chicken will help create a crispier skin when grilling. You can also rub the chicken legs with olive oil to help with browning.

Next, season your chicken legs with salt and pepper or a marinade/rub of your choice. Popular marinades include BBQ sauce, lemon and herb, or a spicy seasoning mix. Let the chicken legs sit for about 15-20 minutes after seasoning to let the flavors absorb.

Step 2: Set Up the Grill

Once your chicken legs are seasoned, it’s time to set up the grill. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it to medium heat (around 350-400°F). If you’re using charcoal, wait for the coals to turn white and settle down to a medium heat level.

It’s also a good idea to set up your grill for two-zone cooking. This means creating a hot zone (direct heat) and a cooler zone (indirect heat). The hot zone will allow you to sear the chicken legs and create that crispy skin, while the cooler zone will help cook the chicken legs through without burning them.

Step 3: Grilling the Chicken Legs

Once your grill is preheated, place the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat zone). Close the lid and let them cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning them every 5-7 minutes. The goal during this phase is to cook the chicken legs gently through indirect heat without burning the skin.

During this time, the chicken will start to cook on the inside while remaining juicy. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken legs, which should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Step 4: Searing the Chicken Legs

Once the chicken legs are cooked through, move them to the hotter side of the grill for direct heat. This will help you get that crispy, golden-brown skin.

Grill the chicken legs over direct heat for 3-5 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. You can also brush them with your favorite sauce during the last couple of minutes of grilling for added flavor.

Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature

The best way to ensure your chicken legs are fully cooked is by checking the internal temperature. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone. The temperature should read 165°F (75°C) when they are done. This ensures the meat is safe to eat and that the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken Legs

After grilling, remove the chicken legs from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

How Long Do You Cook Chicken Legs on the Grill Based on Grill Type?

The grilling time remains relatively consistent whether you're using a gas, charcoal, or pellet grill. However, there are a few variations to keep in mind based on the grill type:

  • Gas Grill: Preheat to medium heat (350-400°F). Grill the chicken legs indirectly for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally. Then, sear them for 3-5 minutes per side over direct heat.

  • Charcoal Grill: Charcoal grills heat up quicker and can reach higher temperatures. Set up a two-zone fire and grill the chicken legs on indirect heat for about 25-30 minutes before searing over direct heat.

  • Pellet Grill: Pellet grills maintain a more consistent temperature, so the process is similar to a gas grill. Set your pellet grill to 350°F and grill the chicken legs for about 25-30 minutes over indirect heat, followed by searing for 3-5 minutes on each side.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Legs

  1. Don’t Skip the Meat Thermometer: Using a thermometer is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken legs are cooked properly. This will prevent undercooking or overcooking, resulting in a perfectly juicy steak every time.

  2. Use Indirect Heat First: Starting with indirect heat helps cook the chicken legs gently without drying them out or burning the skin. This also allows the meat to cook through more evenly.

  3. Avoid Constantly Moving the Chicken: While grilling, avoid constantly flipping or moving the chicken legs. Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to create a nice sear on the skin.

  4. Experiment with Marinades: Marinating the chicken legs for a few hours or overnight can add extra flavor and tenderness. Experiment with different marinades, such as BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or lemon garlic.

  5. Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, don’t forget to let the chicken legs rest. This step is crucial for juicy and flavorful meat.

Conclusion

In summary, the key to grilling perfect chicken legs lies in using the right temperature, the right grilling technique, and the right timing. So, the next time you ask yourself, "how long do you cook chicken legs on the grill", remember to cook them for about 25-30 minutes over indirect heat, followed by a few minutes of searing over direct heat for crispy skin. Always check the internal temperature and allow the chicken to rest before serving.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to cook delicious, tender, and juicy chicken legs on the grill every time. And for more grilling tips, recipes, and helpful resources, make sure to visit Scrappy Geek.

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