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Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs

Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs Recipe

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 360
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 whole chicken legs (drumstick and thigh attached), about 3 lb total
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken dry, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, then rub the blend all over the legs. Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes while the grill heats.
  2. Preheat a grill to medium-high (about 400°F / 200°C). Oil the grates, then grill the chicken skin-side down for 6 to 7 minutes until the skin releases easily and has grill marks.
  3. Flip the legs, brush with barbecue sauce, close the lid, and cook 5 minutes. Baste again and cook another 5 to 7 minutes until an instant-read thermometer registers 170 to 175°F (77 to 80°C) in the thigh.
  4. Move the legs to a warm platter, tent loosely with foil, and rest 5 minutes. Serve with extra sauce on the side.

Notes

For even juicier results, season the legs and refrigerate them uncovered for up to 8 hours before grilling. This dry brine helps the skin crisp and seasons the meat deeply.