Mouthwatering Grilled Chicken Legs: The Ultimate Guide to Juicy Perfection

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You can’t go wrong with grilled chicken legs. The skin is crispy, the meat is tender, and the flavors are classic.

Everyone has that one comfort food they can eat anything. For me, it is barbeque chicken drumsticks. They have everything that a classic dish should have. Plus, I can prepare them at home anytime. So, it’s a win-win for me.

It’s not like I have never ordered grilled chicken thighs at a restaurant. But I never really liked the flavors. Those grilled drumsticks just do not hit the right spot. However, I couldn’t give up on having a plate of lip-smacking BBQ chicken legs. That’s when I checked a few BBQ chicken thigh recipes and came up with my own version.

You won’t believe it, but my recipe is seriously the best because the total cooking time is less than an hour. Also, the ingredients are easily available in the kitchen pantry.

I will show you how to make the best barbecue chicken thighs with less time and less prep work. Check my step-by-step tutorial so you never have to order barbeque chicken legs from a restaurant ever.

For me, there’s something irresistible about biting into a grilled chicken leg with skin that’s crispy and meat that’s so soft it falls off the bone. I’ve spent years getting better at what I do, and I can’t wait to tell you how to make the tastiest grilled chicken legs ever.

Why Grilled Chicken Legs Are a Game-Changer

Chicken legs (also called drumsticks) have become my go-to for summer grilling sessions because:

  • They’re budget-friendly compared to other cuts
  • The dark meat stays juicy and tender on the grill
  • That crispy skin is absolutely addictive
  • They’re perfect for feeding a crowd
  • Kids and adults alike love them

As I show you my tried-and-true method, your family will beg for “those amazing chicken legs” at every barbecue!

What You’ll Need

Ingredients

  • Chicken legs/drumsticks (as many as you need)
  • Salt and pepper (or your favorite seasoning blend)
  • Optional: BBQ sauce for glazing

Equipment:

  • Grill (gas, charcoal, or pellet)
  • Meat thermometer (absolute must-have!)
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Step-by-Step: How to Make Perfect Chicken Legs on the Grill

1. Prep Your Chicken

The first step is super important but often overlooked. Here’s what I do:

  • Pat them dry with paper towels – this is critical for crispy skin!
  • Trim excess skin and any loose bits around the joint area
  • Let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes (optional but helps them cook more evenly)

I’ve found that drying the chicken really makes a difference in getting that restaurant-quality crisp exterior. Don’t skip this step!

2. Season Simply but Effectively

You don’t need fancy marinades for great grilled chicken legs. In fact, I prefer a simple approach:

  • Dry rub option: Mix kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (a 7:2:2 ratio works great)
  • BBQ option: Season with a dry rub first, then add BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking

Keep in mind not to add oil to the skin; it will get crispier without it, despite what you might think.

3. Preheat Your Grill Properly

Temperature control is where most people go wrong. Here’s what works best:

  • Target temperature: 450°F on the grill surface (medium-high on most gas grills)
  • Acceptable range: 400°F to 500°F
  • Clean and oil the grill grates before adding chicken

I always use a grill surface thermometer because the hood thermometer is usually way off. This has saved my chicken legs countless times!

4. The Grilling Process

Now for the main event:

  1. Place chicken legs on the preheated grill
  2. Close the lid (this is important for even cooking)
  3. Flip every 5 minutes for even cooking
  4. Continue grilling until internal temperature reaches 185°F (about 30-35 minutes total)

Most people make the mistake of taking the chicken out too soon. It is safe to use 165°F, but drumsticks need higher temperatures to break down the connective tissues.

5. Check for Doneness

Don’t rely on time alone! Here’s how to tell they’re perfect:

  • Internal temperature: 185°F is ideal (you can go up to 195°F safely)
  • Visual cues: Clear juices when pierced, meat pulling away from the bone
  • Texture test: Meat feels firm when pressed, not rubbery

Trust me, cooking to 185°F makes ALL the difference in texture. At 165°F, drumsticks are still tough and stringy!

6. Rest Before Serving

This step is critical but often skipped:

  • Remove from grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes
  • This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat
  • Results in much more tender, juicy chicken

Common Problems (And How I Solve Them)

Problem: Chicken burns on the outside but is raw inside
Solution: Your grill is too hot! Aim for 450°F surface temperature, not higher

Problem: Chicken skin is rubbery, not crispy
Solution: Make sure you pat the chicken completely dry before grilling

Problem: Chicken legs look done but are still pink inside
Solution: This is normal! As long as the temperature is 165°F+, pink meat in drumsticks is often due to bone marrow leaking during cooking or myoglobin in the meat. It’s perfectly safe.

Problem: Flare-ups burning the chicken
Solution: Create two heat zones on your grill – direct and indirect. Move chicken away from flames if flare-ups occur.

My Favorite Flavor Variations

While simple salt and pepper works great, here are some variations I love:

  • Classic BBQ: Apply BBQ sauce only in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning
  • Lemon-Herb: Add lemon zest, thyme, and rosemary to your basic rub
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in cayenne pepper and smoked paprika (go easy if serving kids!)
  • Honey Glaze: Brush with honey in the last few minutes for a sweet finish

Perfect Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Legs

I always serve my grilled chicken legs with:

  • Grilled corn on the cob
  • Classic potato salad
  • Broccoli slaw
  • Pasta salad
  • Grilled vegetables

Storage and Leftover Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
  • Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes for best results
  • Avoid microwaving if possible (makes the skin soggy)

Final Thoughts

Grilling chicken legs isn’t complicated once you know the secrets. Remember the key points:

  1. Pat dry for crispy skin
  2. Preheat to 450°F
  3. Cook to 185°F (not just 165°F)
  4. Flip every 5 minutes
  5. Let them rest before serving

I’ve been making these grilled chicken legs for years, and they’re always a hit at my summer gatherings. My family now refuses to eat chicken legs prepared any other way!

Happy grilling!

how to make chicken legs on the grill

What to serve with a chicken drumstick grill?

Grilled chicken drumstick tastes the best with pasta salad, garlic feta butter, rice, and pasta.

Steps to Prepare Grilled Chicken Thighs

Grilling chicken thighs sounds intimidating, but it does not have to be. Here’s everything about the preparation of delicious chicken legs on time.

I have divided the steps into different parts so you don’t make any mistakes:

To prepare BBQ chicken thighs, pat them dry to remove the moisture. It makes the chicken more crispy and juicy.

Then apply a coat of oil on drumsticks. Once done, keep the chicken pieces aside. Take another bowl to mix salt, pepper, and other spices together. Rub the seasoning well to get the optimal flavor.

Also See: How To Grill Beer Can Chicken

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Allow the chicken pieces to marinate properly. Putting the pieces in the fridge for marination is even better. Meanwhile, preheat the grill to 400 F. Apply a thick coat of oil so the chicken pieces do not stick while grilling.

Place each chicken drumstick on the grill and cook for about 35 minutes. Flip the chicken pieces frequently. Once cooked, transfer the drumstick to a plate and let it rest.

If you want to get that perfect char effect on the grilled BBQ chicken thighs, apply BBQ sauce and cook on the grill for 25 minutes. Flip the pieces regularly.

  • If you put the chicken pieces in the fridge to marinate or store them, take them out an hour before you grill them.
  • You can get the best flavors by putting spices under the chicken skin. If you like chicken skin, season it well under the skin. Not everyone does.
  • The outside of the chicken gets crispy when you pat it down before putting oil and seasoning on it. The meat becomes tender and juicy.
  • To make your regular grilled chicken a little different, brush the pieces with honey. The hot honey-flavored grilled chicken is almost everyone’s favorite.
  • Bring out dips while serving sticky BBQ chicken drumsticks.

How to Make Easy Grilled Chicken Legs~Easy Cooking

FAQ

How long do chicken legs take on the grill?

It takes about 25 to 30 minutes to grill chicken legs, but the exact time will depend on the size of the legs and the temperature of the grill.

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.

What to do with chicken legs before grilling?

Coat chicken legs with oil and rub seasoning mixture all over chicken legs. Make sure grill grate is clean and well oiled and set to medium heat with lid closed for 5 minutes. When grill is hot, add chicken legs. Turn legs every 5 minutes for a total of 30-35 minutes or until internal temp 165°(F) – 185°(F).

What is the best seasoning for chicken drumsticks?

Garlic + chili powders, oregano, paprika, salt + pepper, aka seasoning perfection. Trust me when I say this is a must-make nutritious and delicious recipe!.

Are grilled chicken legs good for grilling?

Grilled chicken legs are a favorite for BBQ enthusiasts and casual grillers alike. They’re juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making them a go-to choice for backyard gatherings or weeknight dinners. To ensure your chicken legs turn out perfectly every time, you’ll need the right preparation, seasoning, and grilling techniques.

How long does it take to grill chicken legs?

Cooking Times: Keep a close eye on the cooking times; direct grilling takes 30 to 35 minutes, and indirect grilling, depending on the size of the legs, takes 40 to 50 minutes. Check for Doneness: Look for clear juices, firm texture, and a meat thermometer reading of 165°F to ensure perfectly grilled chicken legs.

How do you know if grilled chicken legs are done?

Check to See if Done: To make sure your grilled chicken legs are done, look for clear juices, a firm texture, and a meat thermometer reading of 165°F. Chicken legs consist of the thigh and drumstick, offering a combination of flavor and tenderness. Grilling them properly ensures a delicious meal, balancing a crispy exterior with a juicy interior.

Can you cook chicken legs on a gas grill?

When grilling chicken legs on a gas grill, it is important to consider the temperature and time. Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken legs on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping them occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Should you marinate chicken legs before grilling?

In conclusion, marinating chicken legs before grilling them on a gas grill can greatly enhance their flavor and tenderness. Choosing the right marinade, allowing sufficient marinating time, and grilling at the proper temperature are all important factors for delicious and juicy chicken legs.

Can grilled chicken legs be reheated?

Store cooled grilled chicken legs in an airtight container up to three days. Add to salads or make a delicious chicken salad sandwich. Simply reheat grilled chicken legs in the microwave. To ensure they keep a crispy skin, you can bake or broil them for a few minutes after microwaving. Pro Tips!

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