How to Grill Chicken Legs for Juicy, Flavorful Results

 Grilling chicken legs is one of the best ways to enjoy tender, juicy meat with a smoky, charred exterior. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want a quick and easy meal, learning how to grill chicken legs properly will ensure perfect results every time.

Why Choose Chicken Legs for Grilling?

Chicken legs, which include the drumstick and sometimes the thigh, are ideal for grilling because they are flavorful, budget-friendly, and stay juicy even when exposed to high heat. The dark meat contains more fat than chicken breasts, making it less prone to drying out on the grill.

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Legs

Before you start grilling, gather the following ingredients:

  • 4-6 chicken legs (drumsticks or whole legs)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

  • ½ cup barbecue sauce (optional, for glazing)

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Grill Chicken Legs

1. Prepare the Chicken Legs

Start by patting the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasonings stick better and allows for better caramelization on the grill.

2. Season the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil with all the dry seasonings. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken legs to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for deeper seasoning.

3. Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to medium heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals on one side to create a two-zone cooking area. This allows you to sear the chicken over direct heat and then finish cooking it over indirect heat.

4. Grill the Chicken Legs

  • Place the chicken legs on the grill grates over direct heat.

  • Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes until a nice sear develops.

  • Move the chicken to indirect heat and cover the grill.

  • Continue cooking for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.

5. Check for Doneness

To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (75°C), but for juicier and more tender meat, aim for 175-180°F (80-82°C).

6. Optional: Glaze with Barbecue Sauce

If you want sticky, caramelized chicken legs, brush them with barbecue sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Flip the legs frequently to prevent the sauce from burning.

Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Legs

  • Use indirect heat: Cooking chicken legs over indirect heat ensures they cook evenly without burning on the outside.

  • Avoid constantly flipping: Turning the chicken too often can prevent it from developing a good crust.

  • Let them rest: After removing the chicken from the grill, let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.

  • Experiment with flavors: Try different marinades, such as lemon herb, teriyaki, or spicy chipotle, to keep things exciting.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled chicken legs pair well with a variety of sides, including:

  • Grilled corn on the cob

  • Coleslaw

  • Baked beans

  • Potato salad

  • Garlic bread

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to grill chicken legs, you can enjoy flavorful, smoky, and juicy chicken at any time. Whether you're making them for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this foolproof grilling method will never disappoint.

For more grilling tips and recipes, check out Scrappy Geek!

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