Grilling chicken legs to perfection takes a bit of technique but the juicy, flavorful payoff is worth the effort. Finding the right grill temperature is key to getting the ideal crisp skin and moist tender meat. So what temperature should you use? Let’s explore the ins and outs of grilling chicken legs.
Why Temperature Matters
Cooking chicken legs requires balancing time and temperature. Too low, and they won’t cook through. Too high, and you risk charring the outside before the inside cooks
The sweet spot is typically a medium grill temperature, around 350-375°F (175-190°C). This gives you the best of both worlds: nicely browned, crispy skin along with thoroughly cooked, juicy meat.
Preparing Your Chicken Legs
Before you start the grill, there are a few easy things you can do to make sure the chicken legs cook evenly and taste great.
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Trim excess fat to prevent flare-ups from drippings.
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Season generously with spices, herbs, rubs or marinades. Allow at least 30 minutes for flavors to penetrate.
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Let sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook more evenly.
Grilling Techniques
There are a couple techniques to get the skin crispy without overcooking the meat.
Two-Zone Grilling
This uses both direct and indirect heat. Here’s how:
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Preheat grill to 350-375°F.
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Place chicken legs over direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side to sear the skin.
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Move to the indirect heat zone, close lid, and finish cooking, about 30-40 minutes until 165°F internal temperature.
All Indirect Heat
You can also cook solely over indirect heat the entire time. This takes 45-60 minutes but ensures even doneness without burning.
Doneness Temperature
Always rely on a thermometer, not just time, to gauge doneness. Chicken legs are safely cooked at:
- 165°F (74°C) internal temperature
Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the leg, avoiding the bone.
Enhancing Flavor
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Marinades infuse flavor and moisture. Allow at least 30 minutes to marinate.
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Dry rubs give you flavor without the mess of sauces.
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Wood chips (soaked first) add a tasty, smoky essence. Apple, hickory and mesquite work well.
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Basting with sauce in the last 10 minutes adds flavor.
Common Problems and Solutions
Burnt exterior, raw interior: Lower heat, use indirect method.
Dry, overcooked chicken: Don’t exceed 165°F internal temp. Marinate first.
Sticking to the grill: Oil grates well before cooking. Don’t move pieces too soon after placing on grill.
Flare-ups: Trim excess fat, avoid sugary sauces, have water spray bottle on hand.
Letting Your Chicken Legs Rest
Chicken legs should rest for 5 to 10 minutes after grilling before being served. This lets the juices move around, keeping the food moist and tasty.
Grilled Spice-Rubbed Chicken Drumsticks
When grilled as part of a whole chicken, drumsticks taste just fine. But with the right treatment, they can be the solo stars of your cookout.
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Cooking Chicken Legs – WORLD FAMOUS Grilled Drumsticks!
FAQ
What is the best temperature to cook chicken legs on a grill?
How Long to Grill Chicken Drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks take between 25 and 30 minutes to grill over a medium-high heat (300 to 400 degrees F). This is the case whether you use a gas grill or a charcoal grill. For the best results, avoid high heat and flare ups, as the outside will cook much quicker than the inside.
How long to grill chicken on a grill at 350?
Cover with plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet, or even a rolling pin, until the breast is an even 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Place the chicken breast on the grill over direct medium heat (350º to 450º) and cook it until an instant-read thermometer reads 165º F. Flip once. Approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
Should you grill drumsticks with the lid open or closed?
When grilling chicken drumsticks, it’s generally best to grill them with the lid closed. This helps to maintain a consistent temperature and allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, cooking it more evenly and thoroughly.
How to grill chicken legs without burning?
To grill chicken legs without burning, utilize a two-zone grilling method: one side with direct heat for searing and one side with indirect heat for slow cooking. This prevents the skin from burning before the inside is cooked through.
How hot should chicken legs be before grilling?
Before taking the chicken off the grill, always use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C). Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions related to grilling chicken legs: 1. How long does it take to grill chicken legs?.
Can you cook chicken legs on a grill?
Grilling chicken legs is a delicious and popular choice for many outdoor cooking enthusiasts. However, getting the perfect balance of tender and juicy meat with crispy skin can be a bit tricky. One of the key factors in achieving this is cooking the chicken legs at the right temperature on the grill.
How long should chicken legs sit before grilling?
Room Temperature: Let the chicken legs sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling. This helps them cook evenly. Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to the appropriate temperature before adding the chicken legs. Placement: Position the chicken legs on the grill away from direct flames.
What temperature should chicken legs be cooked at?
**The ideal temperature to cook chicken legs on the grill is 375°F (190°C). **The chicken legs will cook evenly at this temperature, giving them a beautiful browned and crispy skin while keeping the inside soft and juicy. It also helps to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked, eliminating any risk of foodborne illnesses.
How long do you cook chicken legs on a gas grill?
Check the grill surface temperature and place the chicken legs on the grill. Close the grill hood. Flip about every 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 185°F, about 30-35 minutes. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Pat dry and season to taste.
How long does it take to cook chicken legs?
Cooking chicken legs typically takes 30 to 40 minutes at a temperature between 350°F and 400°F. Here’s a breakdown of cooking times based on grill temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and remains moist.