How Long to Grill Chicken Legs for Juicy and Flavorful Results
Grilling chicken legs is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a smoky, flavorful meal. However, one common question among home cooks and BBQ enthusiasts is how long to grill chicken legs to achieve that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat. Cooking time depends on the heat level, grill type, and whether the legs are bone-in or boneless. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best grilling techniques to ensure perfectly cooked chicken legs every time.
Why Grill Chicken Legs?
Chicken legs are a great option for grilling because they are:
✔️ Affordable and widely available
✔️ Naturally juicy and flavorful
✔️ Easy to season and customize with marinades and rubs
Preparing Chicken Legs for Grilling
Before grilling, it’s essential to prepare the chicken properly:
Trim excess fat and skin to prevent flare-ups.
Pat the chicken dry to help the seasoning stick better.
Marinate or season the legs at least 30 minutes before grilling for maximum flavor.
How Long to Grill Chicken Legs?
The total cooking time depends on whether you’re using direct or indirect heat:
👉 Direct Heat Method:
Set the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F).
Place the chicken legs on the grill grates.
Grill for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of at least 165°F.
👉 Indirect Heat Method:
Preheat the grill to 350°F and place the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill.
Cook for 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally.
Finish over direct heat for the last 5 minutes for crispy skin.
How to Tell When Chicken Legs Are Done
The best way to ensure properly cooked chicken is by checking the internal temperature:
✅ The safe temperature for chicken legs is 165°F.
✅ For extra tenderness, let them cook to 175-180°F to break down connective tissues.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Legs
🔥 Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
🔥 Don’t press down on the chicken legs—this will squeeze out the juices.
🔥 Rest the chicken for 5 minutes after grilling to keep the meat juicy.
For more expert grilling tips and mouth-watering recipes, check out Scrappy Geek. Happy grilling! 🍗🔥
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