These juicy grilled chicken legs are packed with flavor and easy to make! A mix of your favorite spices makes each bite deliciously tasty. Perfect for a summer BBQ!
Grilling chicken legs can be so much fun, especially when you hear that sizzle! I love serving them with a side of corn on the cob. It’s pure happiness on a plate! 🌽😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Legs: Skin-on chicken legs are ideal for grilling as they keep the meat juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless chicken thighs can work too, but the cooking time will change!
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist while grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, vegetable oil or canola oil are good substitutes.
Spices: I love using smoked paprika for its unique flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a bit of cumin can add great taste. Adjust the spice levels based on your heat preference!
Lemon Juice: It brightens the flavors and helps tenderize the meat. You can swap it with vinegar (like apple cider) for a different zing.
How Do I Achieve Tender and Juicy Chicken on the Grill?
Grilling chicken legs can be tricky if not done correctly. Here’s how to make sure they turn out juicy and delicious:
- Marinate the chicken for several hours to soak in flavors and break down the meat
- Preheat the grill properly. This is key for that perfect sear!
- Cook on medium-high heat, using a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 75°C).
- Turn the chicken regularly to avoid burning, which ensures even cooking all around.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This keeps it moist inside before serving.
These tips will help you get perfectly grilled chicken legs every time! Enjoy your cookout!
Juicy Grilled Chicken Legs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 chicken legs (drumsticks), skin on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a little heat)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires a bit of planning! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and marinating the chicken (though longer marination, around 3-4 hours, brings out the best flavor). Cooking on the grill takes about 25-30 minutes. So, in total, plan for about 4 hours, including marination time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried oregano or thyme, salt, black pepper, chili powder (if you want some heat), and the lemon juice. Give it a good stir until everything is combined and looks like a tasty marinade!
2. Prep the Chicken:
Take your chicken legs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the marinade stick better. Add the chicken legs to the bowl with the marinade and toss them around to make sure each piece is covered in flavor. Once they’re coated, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the fridge. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let them sit for 3-4 hours for even more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (so around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). This is important to get that great char on the chicken!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Carefully place the marinated chicken legs on the hot grill. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes, making sure to turn them every 5-7 minutes. You want nice, golden-brown skin without burning. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and you see some beautiful char marks!
5. Rest and Garnish:
Once your chicken legs are grilled to perfection, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps lock in the juices. After resting, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to dig in! Serve your juicy grilled chicken legs hot with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Your amazing grilled chicken legs are now ready to be enjoyed! Happy grilling!
FAQ – Juicy Grilled Chicken Legs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Legs?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute. Just be mindful that they may cook faster than drumsticks, so check for doneness early to avoid overcooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken legs for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. If you marinate too long, the acidity from the lemon juice can begin to break down the meat, so 3-4 hours is usually ideal!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Cook the Chicken in the Oven Instead of the Grill?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the marinated chicken legs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Enjoy your grilling and happy cooking!
