Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs

Summer is the perfect time to fire up your grill and indulge in some mouth-watering BBQ chicken legs. These grilled BBQ chicken legs are a classic favorite that are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, including a delicious honey barbecue sauce, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Perfect for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, these chicken legs are sure to impress!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

When it comes to grilling, there’s something magical about the smoky flavor that infuses meats, especially chicken. This grilled BBQ chicken legs recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, the combination of spices with the sweet and tangy honey barbecue sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors. Secondly, chicken legs are not only economical but also incredibly tender and juicy when cooked on the grill. Finally, the hands-on time is minimal, making it a perfect go-to recipe for busy evenings or special occasions.

Ingredients

To create succulent grilled BBQ chicken legs, gather the following ingredients:

• 10 chicken legs
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ¾ cup honey barbecue sauce

These ingredients combine to create a delightful marinade that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken while also providing a wonderful caramelization on the grill.

How To Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and ground pepper. Mix until all the spices are well blended. This spice mixture will add an extra layer of flavor to the chicken legs before they hit the grill.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the skin to crisp up nicely on the grill. Next, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken legs and rub it in to ensure they are well coated. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken legs. Make sure to get the seasoning in all the nooks and crannies, ensuring each piece is flavorful. For best results, let the legs marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

While your chicken legs are marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, set it to medium-high, and for a charcoal grill, prepare your coals for direct grilling. Preheating ensures that you get a nice sear on the chicken legs.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Legs

Once the grill is hot, place the chicken legs on the grill grates, making sure to leave a little space between each leg for even cooking. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Make sure to turn them occasionally to achieve that perfect golden-brown color and prevent burning.

Step 5: Baste with Barbecue Sauce

During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the honey barbecue sauce over the chicken legs. This will create a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully, adding depth to the flavor. Flip the chicken legs a couple of times during basting to ensure the sauce sticks and cooks into the chicken.

Step 6: Let Them Rest

Once the chicken legs are done grilling, remove them from the heat and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is as juicy and flavorful as possible.

Expert Tips

• For extra smokiness, consider adding wood chips to your charcoal grill or using a smoker box with your gas grill.
• Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check doneness; this will help you avoid overcooking the chicken.
• If you have time, marinate the chicken legs overnight for even more flavorful results.
• Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your perfect flavor combination.

Variations and Customizations

• Add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the spice mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Incorporate fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an aromatic touch.
• Use boneless chicken thighs instead of legs if you prefer a different cut of chicken.
• Spicy lovers can add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the spice mixture for an extra kick.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover grilled BBQ chicken legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or grill them for a few minutes to re-crisp the skin. If you have a larger batch, you can also freeze the chicken legs. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

FAQ

Can I use skinless chicken legs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skinless chicken legs, but you may lose some of the crispiness and flavor that the skin adds. The marinade will still provide great flavor, but consider adjusting cooking times as skinless thighs might cook faster.

What barbecue sauce works best for this recipe?

For this recipe, a honey barbecue sauce is ideal, but you can use your favorite brand or homemade barbecue sauce. Feel free to experiment with different flavors, such as smoky or spicy variants, to suit your taste.

How long should I marinate the chicken legs?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken legs for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is even better. If you have the time, marinating overnight will yield the most flavorful and tender chicken.

Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of grilling?

Absolutely! If you can’t grill, you can bake the chicken legs at 425°F (220°C) for about 35-40 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for that sticky glaze.

Conclusion

Grilled BBQ chicken legs are a true delight, providing a perfect blend of flavors that your family and friends will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe can be a weekly staple or a highlight at your summer gatherings. So grab your grill, mix up those spices, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or simply enjoying a relaxing dinner at home, these chicken legs are bound to be a hit. Happy grilling!