How Long Does It Take to Grill Chicken Legs? The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Grilled Chicken Legs

 Grilled chicken legs are a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a simple family dinner, how long does it take to grill chicken legs is one of the most common questions asked by home cooks and grill enthusiasts alike. The answer depends on various factors, such as grill temperature, the method used, and the size of the chicken legs. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know to grill chicken legs to perfection, from timing to techniques and tips.

Why Choose Chicken Legs for Grilling?

Chicken legs are one of the best cuts of chicken to grill, and for good reason. They are flavorful, juicy, and less likely to dry out compared to chicken breasts. Whether you’re cooking drumsticks or whole legs (which include the drumstick and thigh), the combination of tender meat and crispy skin makes them a favorite among many.

Unlike leaner cuts, chicken legs contain more fat, which helps to keep the meat moist during grilling. When you’re asking how long does it take to grill chicken legs, it’s important to consider the method you choose for grilling and how that affects the cooking time.

How Long Does It Take to Grill Chicken Legs?

The exact time it takes to grill chicken legs depends on a few factors, such as the heat level of the grill and the grilling method you choose. Whether you opt for direct heat, indirect heat, or a combination of both, the key to success is maintaining consistent temperature and flipping the legs regularly to avoid burning.

Direct Heat Method: Quick and Crispy

Grilling chicken legs over direct heat is one of the most popular methods to achieve crispy skin and well-cooked meat. The time it takes to grill chicken legs over direct heat depends on the temperature of your grill and the size of the chicken legs.

1. Preheat the Grill: To start, preheat your grill to 400°F (204°C). A hotter grill will cook the chicken faster and help crisp up the skin. For this method, a high temperature is essential to achieve that deliciously crispy exterior.
   
   

2. Grill the Chicken Legs: Once the grill is hot, place the chicken legs directly over the flame. Grill them for about 25-30 minutes, turning them every 5-7 minutes to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll want to keep the chicken moving to avoid burning and ensure the skin crisps up on all sides.
   
   

3. Check for Doneness: To ensure the chicken legs are fully cooked, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken and check for clear juices and no pink meat.
   
   

Indirect Heat Method: Low and Slow

If you’re wondering how long does it take to grill chicken legs for a more even cook, indirect heat is the method for you. This technique allows the chicken to cook more slowly, resulting in tender and juicy meat. It’s perfect for larger chicken legs or for those who prefer a more hands-off approach to grilling.

1. Preheat the Grill: For indirect grilling, you’ll need to set your grill to 300°F (149°C). This lower temperature allows the chicken legs to cook slowly without burning the skin.
   
   

2. Grill the Chicken Legs: Place the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill, away from the direct flame. Grill the chicken for about 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and prevents the skin from burning.
   
   

3. Crisp the Skin: Once the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), move the legs to the direct heat side of the grill for 5-7 minutes to crisp up the skin. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn.
   
   

Two-Zone Cooking Method: Best of Both Worlds

For those who want to combine the benefits of both direct and indirect heat, the two-zone cooking method is the best approach. This method is perfect for achieving crispy skin without drying out the chicken. By using both direct and indirect heat, you get the best of both worlds: juicy, tender meat and perfectly crisped skin.

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill up with two heat zones: one side should be at 400°F (204°C) for direct heat, and the other side should be at 300°F (149°C) for indirect heat.
   
   

2. Grill the Chicken Legs: Start by placing the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat) and grill for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken legs halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
   
   

3. Finish Over Direct Heat: Once the chicken legs are nearly cooked through (check the internal temperature for 165°F or 74°C), move them to the direct heat side of the grill for 5-10 minutes. This allows the skin to crisp up and adds a nice char to the chicken.
   
   

How to Check if Your Chicken Legs Are Done

Grilling chicken legs requires a little patience, but it’s worth the wait for perfectly cooked chicken. The best way to check if your chicken legs are done is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken leg, avoiding the bone. When it reads 165°F (74°C), your chicken is ready to be served.

If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the chicken. The juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink.

Additional Tips for Grilling Perfect Chicken Legs

To ensure your chicken legs turn out perfectly every time, here are some additional tips:

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each chicken leg enough space on the grill to cook evenly. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and prevent the skin from crisping.
   
   

2. Use a Two-Zone Setup on Charcoal Grills: If you're using a charcoal grill, set up two zones: one with direct heat and the other without. This gives you more control over the temperature and ensures even cooking.
   
   

3. Baste with Sauce: If you’re using a marinade or BBQ sauce, apply it during the last 10 minutes of grilling. This prevents the sauce from burning and allows it to caramelize on the chicken.
   
   

4. Let the Chicken Rest: After removing the chicken legs from the grill, let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy, tender meat.
   
   

Serving Ideas for Grilled Chicken Legs

Grilled chicken legs are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Grilled Vegetables: Pair your chicken legs with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, corn on the cob, or asparagus.
  
  

• Potato Salad or Coleslaw: Creamy sides like potato salad or coleslaw complement the smoky, savory flavor of the chicken.
  
  

• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken legs with rice, quinoa, or couscous for a filling and balanced meal.
  
  

• Dipping Sauces: BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy hot sauce are perfect for dipping.
  
  

Conclusion

Now that you know how long does it take to grill chicken legs, you can confidently fire up the grill and cook this delicious dish. Whether you prefer direct heat for crispy skin or indirect heat for juicy, tender meat, following the right grilling method and timing is key to success. Don’t forget to check the internal temperature to ensure your chicken legs are perfectly cooked.

For more grilling tips, techniques, and recipes, visit Scrappy Geek. You’ll find plenty of helpful resources to elevate your grilling skills and make your chicken legs a hit at every cookout.