Get ready for some tasty grilled chicken legs that are juicy and packed with flavor! With a simple seasoning mix, these legs become a hit at any barbecue or family dinner.
Honestly, who can resist that crispy skin and mouthwatering taste? I love making these on sunny days and serving them with a fresh salad—so easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Legs: Drumsticks are perfect for grilling due to their juicy and tender meat. If you can’t find drumsticks, thighs or even chicken breasts can be used, but cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and helps the spices stick. You can substitute it with avocado oil or vegetable oil if needed. Each has a similar effect on flavor.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor, but if it’s not on hand, regular paprika will do the trick. For garlic and onion powder, feel free to use fresh garlic or onion—just adjust quantities to taste.
Cayenne Pepper: This ingredient adds a kick! If you’re not into spicy food, you can totally leave it out or reduce the amount. Similarly, you can use chili powder or a milder pepper for a different flavor profile.
Brown Sugar: This balances the flavors and gives a nice glaze. If you want to skip it, honey or maple syrup can work too, just be mindful of their moisture content in your mixture.
How Do I Grill Chicken Legs Perfectly? What Should I Remember?
Grilling chicken legs can be tricky, but with a few tips, it can be so easy! The key to juicy chicken lies in marinating and cooking at the right temperature. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes will help flavor it. If you have time, go for up to 2 hours!
- Preheat your grill to about 400°F (200°C) and oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. This is crucial for achieving those lovely grill marks.
- Cook the chicken legs for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
Best Damn Grilled Chicken Legs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken legs recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating, and 25 minutes for grilling. So, in total, plan for around 1 hour and 5 minutes to prepare and grill your chicken legs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). This will help ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice grilled flavor.
2. Making the Spice Rub:
In a large bowl, pour in the olive oil and add all the spices: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything together well until you have a flavorful spice rub that will bring out the best in your chicken.
3. Coating the Chicken:
Add the chicken legs to the bowl and make sure they are all coated evenly with the spice rub. It’s important that each piece is generously covered; this is where all the flavor comes from! Once coated, let the chicken marinate. You can do this at room temperature for 30 minutes or in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor.
4. Grilling the Chicken:
When you’re ready to grill, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken legs on the grill. Cook them for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on the internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C) when done.
5. Serving the Chicken:
Once the chicken legs are grilled to perfection, take them off the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist bite. Before serving, you can sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color, and then enjoy your delicious grilled chicken legs!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Legs?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs can be a great substitute. Just keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer cooking time, about 25-30 minutes, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavors even more! Just make sure to keep it covered in an airtight container or zip-lock bag to prevent contamination and odor absorption.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Legs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them juicy, or in the microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some red pepper flakes to the spice rub. For an extra kick, try marinating the chicken with hot sauce or serve it with your favorite spicy dipping sauce!
