How Long Do You Grill Chicken Legs: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Grilled Chicken Legs

 Grilling chicken legs is one of the most satisfying and flavorful ways to cook this versatile cut of meat. The combination of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat makes grilled chicken legs a favorite at barbecues, family dinners, and outdoor parties. If you’re wondering how long do you grill chicken legs, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best grilling techniques, timing, and tips to help you master grilling chicken legs to perfection every time.

Why Chicken Legs?

Chicken legs, which consist of the drumstick and thigh, are an excellent choice for grilling. They are affordable, juicy, and flavorful. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out quickly, chicken legs retain their moisture and flavor, making them more forgiving on the grill. When you ask how long do you grill chicken legs, it’s important to understand that the key to perfect chicken legs lies in the balance of time, temperature, and grilling method.

Preparing Chicken Legs for the Grill

Before you start grilling, it's important to properly prepare your chicken legs to ensure they cook evenly and develop that golden, crispy skin everyone loves. Here are some essential steps:

1. Thaw the Chicken Legs: If you’re using frozen chicken legs, make sure they are completely thawed before grilling. Thawing the meat ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from being undercooked on the inside.
   
   

2. Pat Dry the Chicken Legs: Use paper towels to pat the chicken legs dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps achieve that crispy skin when grilling.
   
   

3. Season the Chicken Legs: You can keep it simple with salt and pepper, or get creative with a marinade or dry rub. Some popular seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a little bit of cayenne for heat. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat.
   
   

4. Oil the Grill Grates: To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil your grill grates using a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil. This helps the chicken legs cook smoothly without sticking.
   
   

How Long Do You Grill Chicken Legs: The Grilling Process

Once your chicken legs are ready, it’s time to start grilling. The answer to how long do you grill chicken legs depends on the grilling method you choose. There are two main methods for grilling chicken legs: direct heat and indirect heat. Let’s break down both methods and how long each will take.

Direct Heat Method (For Crispy Skin)

Grilling over direct heat is a great method if you want crispy, flavorful skin. It’s perfect for chicken legs, which have enough fat to ensure the meat stays juicy even under higher heat.

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to about 400°F (204°C). This high temperature allows the chicken to cook quickly and get that crispy skin.
   
   

2. Grill the Chicken Legs: Place the chicken legs directly over the heat. Grill them for 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. The goal is to achieve crispy skin on the outside while maintaining juicy meat on the inside.
   
   

3. Check the Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken legs. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   
   

Indirect Heat Method (For Even Cooking)

If you want to ensure that the chicken legs cook evenly without burning, the indirect heat method is ideal. It allows the chicken to cook slowly and thoroughly.

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to 300°F (149°C) for indirect heat. This lower temperature helps cook the chicken legs more slowly, ensuring they are fully cooked without burning the skin.
   
   

2. Grill the Chicken Legs: Place the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill, away from the direct heat. Grill them for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly on all sides without the skin overcooking.
   
   

3. Finish Over Direct Heat: Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), move the drumsticks over to the hot side of the grill for the last 5-7 minutes. This final step will crisp up the skin.
   
   

Two-Zone Cooking Method

For the best of both worlds, you can combine both direct and indirect heat methods. Start by cooking the chicken legs over indirect heat for 20-25 minutes. Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, move them to the direct heat for about 5-10 minutes to get a crispy exterior.

Checking for Doneness

Knowing how long do you grill chicken legs is important, but the real key to perfect grilled chicken is making sure it’s fully cooked. The best way to check if your chicken legs are done is by using a meat thermometer.

1. Insert the Thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken leg, avoiding the bone. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), your chicken legs are ready to serve.
   
   

2. Visual Check: If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also cut into the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat remaining.
   
   

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Legs

Grilling chicken legs can be tricky if you don’t follow the right steps. Here are some helpful tips to make sure your chicken legs turn out perfectly:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Make sure to give each chicken leg enough space on the grill. Overcrowding the grill can cause uneven cooking and prevent the skin from crisping up.
   
   

2. Baste with Sauce: If you’re using a marinade or BBQ sauce, apply it during the last 10 minutes of grilling to prevent it from burning. Brush the sauce on the chicken and let it caramelize for extra flavor.
   
   

3. Use a Two-Zone Setup: If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up with a hot side for direct heat and a cooler side for indirect heat. This gives you more control over the cooking process and prevents burning.
   
   

4. Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, let the chicken legs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy.
   
   

Serving Ideas for Grilled Chicken Legs

Grilled chicken legs can be served with a wide variety of sides. Here are some great ideas for pairing with your grilled chicken:

• Grilled Vegetables: Serve the chicken legs with grilled vegetables like corn on the cob, bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus. These vegetables cook quickly and complement the smoky flavor of the chicken.
  
  

• Salads: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the richness of the grilled chicken.
  
  

• Potato Salad or Coleslaw: These creamy side dishes balance the smoky, savory flavor of the chicken legs.
  
  

• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken legs with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous to make the meal more filling.
  
  

• Dipping Sauces: BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy hot sauce make great dipping options for the grilled chicken.
  
  

Conclusion

Grilling chicken legs is a rewarding process, but knowing how long do you grill chicken legs is crucial to achieving that perfect combination of crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Whether you choose to grill over direct heat, indirect heat, or use a combination of both, following the correct timing and temperature is the key to success. By using a meat thermometer and keeping an eye on your chicken, you can create perfectly grilled chicken legs every time.

For more tips and detailed grilling advice, be sure to check out Scrappy Geek, where you can discover even more techniques to elevate your grilling skills and make the most of your outdoor cooking.