How to Grill BBQ Chicken Legs - Outdoor Cabinets

Introduction

Grilling bbq chicken legs is a delicious way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with that quintessential barbecue taste. When done right, bbq chicken legs have crispy charred skin with tender, juicy meat inside. The secret is knowing how to prepare the chicken legs properly and use the right bbq techniques to achieve perfect results. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to grill bbq chicken legs to bbq perfection.

Gather the Necessary Supplies

Before you can grill those bbq chicken legs, you need to make sure you have the right supplies on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken legs – Go for bone-in chicken legs with the skin on for the best results. Choose fresh, organic chicken if possible.
BBQ rub – A good bbq rub adds tons of flavor. Opt for a store-bought rub or make your own blend.
BBQ sauce – Use your favorite bbq sauce to baste the chicken as it cooks for finger-licking results.
BBQ grill – You’ll need a charcoal or gas grill to cook the chicken over direct heat. Make sure it’s clean.
BBQ tools – Invest in high-quality bbq tools like tongs, a spatula, and basting brush.
Aluminum foil – Use foil to make a pouch for smoking or to prevent flare-ups.
Wood chips – Soak wood chips like hickory or mesquite to generate smoke (optional).

Season the Chicken Legs

After gathering your supplies, the next step is to season the bbq chicken legs. Here’s how:
Rinse the chicken legs under cold water and pat them completely dry with paper towels.
Generously coat the legs with your favorite bbq rub, covering all sides. Massage the seasoning into the meat.
Refrigerate the rubbed chicken legs for at least 1-2 hours and up to overnight. This allows the seasonings to penetrate for maximum flavor.
Sprinkle additional rub right before grilling if desired. The longer the rub sits on the chicken, the better the flavor will be.

Prep the Grill

To ensure your bbq chicken legs cook perfectly on the grill, you need to prep your grill properly:
If using a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until covered with gray ash (about 20-30 minutes). Mound them on one side.
For gas grills, preheat to medium-high heat (375-450°F) and turn off one burner to create indirect heat.
Clean the grates well and brush or rub them with oil to prevent sticking.
If using wood chips, wrap them in foil and poke holes. Place the packet directly on the coals or heat diffuser.
Have your bbq tools and chicken legs ready near the grill.

Grill the Chicken Legs

Once your grill is hot and ready, it’s time to start grilling those bbq chicken legs! Follow these steps:

Place the chicken legs skin-side down over direct heat. Grill for 8-10 minutes until nicely charred.
Flip the legs and move them to indirect heat. Cover the grill. Grill for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
During the last 5 minutes, slather bbq sauce on the chicken legs to glaze.
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The juices should run clear.
Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your perfectly grilled bbq chicken legs! The skin will be crispy and the meat juicy.

BBQ Chicken Legs Tips & Tricks

Use these tips to take your bbq chicken legs to the next level:

Brine the chicken legs in saltwater for added moisture and flavor.
Insert pats of butter or fresh herb sprigs under the skin before grilling.
Opt for a sweet bbq sauce or try different flavors like spicy or tangy.
Grill lemon or lime wedges to squeeze over the chicken for brightness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Let the chicken rest before slicing for juicier meat.
Serve with traditional bbq sides like coleslaw, beans, cornbread and potato salad.

FAQs About Grilling BBQ Chicken Legs

How long does it take to grill bbq chicken legs?

It takes 35-45 minutes total to grill bone-in, skin-on bbq chicken legs. Grill over direct heat for 8-10 minutes per side to get a good char. Then finish cooking over indirect heat for 25-35 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What temperature do you grill bbq chicken legs at?

Grill bbq chicken legs over medium-high heat between 375-450°F. Use direct heat to sear the skin and render the fat. Then move to indirect heat to finish cooking through without burning.

What is the best bbq chicken leg recipe?

A classic bbq chicken leg recipe coats the legs with a flavorful dry rub, sears them over direct heat, then finishes cooking over indirect heat with bbq sauce glazed on. Brining adds extra moisture and flavor.

Can you grill frozen chicken legs?

It’s best to thaw chicken legs before grilling for food safety and to ensure even cooking. If grilling frozen chicken legs, use indirect heat and increase cooking time. Test with a meat thermometer.

How do you keep chicken legs moist on the grill?

Brining, spritzing with juice or broth while grilling, using indirect heat, and avoiding overcooking keeps bbq chicken legs moist. Letting them rest before eating also locks in juices.

Conclusion

Grilling juicy, mouthwatering bbq chicken legs takes some technique but the rewarding, smoky flavor makes it worth the effort. Follow this guide for tips on supplies, seasoning, grill prep, grilling methods, doneness, and serving suggestions. Mastering the art of how to grill bbq chicken legs will make you the neighborhood hero at every backyard barbecue!