Mastering The Art Of Bbq Chicken Legs Timing

how long should I bbq chicken legs

Grilled chicken legs are a tasty treat, but how long should you BBQ them for? The answer depends on a few factors, such as the size of your chicken legs and the heat of your grill. However, a good rule of thumb is to grill them for around 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. This will ensure that your chicken legs are cooked safely and thoroughly, without being dried out or burnt.

Characteristics Values
Preparation time 5-10 minutes
Cooking time 30-45 minutes
Total time 35-60 minutes
Internal temperature 165-195°F
Surface temperature 400-450°F
Grill type Gas or charcoal
Chicken type Drumsticks, thighs, wings, quarters, breast
Chicken amount 6-12 pieces

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How to prep the chicken legs before grilling

Preparing chicken legs before grilling is simple and only takes a few minutes.

Firstly, pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to get the crispiest skin possible. If you have the time, place the chicken pieces on a wire rack over a baking sheet in the fridge and let them air chill for a few hours to get them really dry.

Next, mix your chosen spices in a bowl. You can use a simple combination of salt and pepper, or try a spice rub with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground mustard seeds, and more.

Then, evenly apply oil to both sides of the chicken legs. This will help to prevent sticking and ensure the chicken skin becomes crispy.

After that, apply a thick coat of your chosen spice mix to the chicken legs and let them rest for a while. You can also place the chicken, oil, and seasonings in a zip-top bag and mix well to coat the chicken without getting your hands dirty.

Finally, preheat your grill to the desired temperature, usually between 300-450°F. If you are using a charcoal grill, create two zones by preparing the charcoal on one side of the grill only.

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The ideal temperature for grilling chicken legs

Gas grill

For a gas grill, preheat your grill to a temperature between 400°F and 450°F. Once the chicken legs are on the grill, lower the temperature to about 300°F.

Charcoal grill

For a charcoal grill, create two zones by preparing the charcoal on one side of the grill only. Start by cooking the chicken directly on top of the heat source, then once the chicken is browned on all sides, move the pieces away from the heat source to finish cooking.

Internal temperature

The best final internal temperature for chicken legs is 185°F. The FDA minimum safe internal temperature is 165°F, but there is too much connective tissue in chicken legs and thighs. At 165°F, they will be tough and stringy. To get moist and tender meat, you need to melt the connective tissue, which starts at 170°F but is mostly complete at 185°F.

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How long to grill chicken legs for

The total grilling time for chicken legs depends on various factors, such as the size of the drumsticks, the grill's temperature, and whether you are using a gas or charcoal grill. However, on average, it takes around 30-40 minutes to grill chicken legs on a medium-high grill with a surface temperature of 400-450°F.

Gas Grill

For a gas grill, preheat the grill to a medium-high heat of around 400-450°F. Place the chicken drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping the drumsticks every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. Lower the heat to about 300°F and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. The total cooking time on a gas grill should be around 30-35 minutes.

Charcoal Grill

For a charcoal grill, create two zones by lighting the charcoal on one side of the grill only. Place the chicken directly over the heat source and cook for about 20 minutes, turning frequently. Then, move the chicken away from the direct heat source and finish cooking with indirect heat for another 15-20 minutes. The total cooking time on a charcoal grill should be around 35-40 minutes.

Internal Temperature

Regardless of the type of grill, it is important to ensure that the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature. The US FDA recommends cooking chicken to a minimum internal temperature of 165°F. However, for optimal texture and to ensure that the connective tissue in the meat is melted, it is recommended to cook chicken legs to an internal temperature of 185°F. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken before serving.

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How to tell when chicken legs are cooked

Grilled chicken legs are a tasty treat, but it's important to make sure they're cooked properly to avoid foodborne illnesses. Here are some detailed instructions on how to tell when chicken legs are cooked:

Checking the Internal Temperature

The best way to ensure your chicken legs are cooked is to use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. White meat chicken should be cooked to 165°F (73°C), while dark meat should reach 175°F (79°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch the bone, and check the temperature in multiple spots to avoid undercooked areas.

Checking the Juices

If you don't have a meat thermometer, you can check the doneness of the chicken legs by piercing them with a knife or fork in the thickest part and observing the colour of the juices that run out. If the juices are clear, the chicken is cooked. If they are pink or bloody, the chicken needs more time.

Checking the Colour of the Meat

Another visual cue is to check the colour of the meat itself. Cut into the thickest part of the meat with a sharp knife. If the meat is white or opaque, it's cooked. If it's pink, it needs more time.

Checking the Size

The proteins in chicken shrink as they cook, so if the chicken leg looks seared and golden on the outside but is still the same size as its raw state, it likely needs more time.

Other Tips

  • Always cook chicken to the recommended internal temperature to ensure it's safe to eat and to avoid dry, overcooked meat.
  • Use a reliable recipe that includes directions on the cut of chicken to use, the temperature, and how to check for doneness.
  • Let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to settle and keep the meat juicy.
  • Avoid pressing down on the chicken with your grilling tools, as this can dry out the meat.
  • Flip the chicken legs frequently (about every 5 minutes) to ensure even cooking.

By following these instructions, you can ensure your grilled chicken legs are cooked properly and safely. Enjoy your delicious meal!

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What to serve with BBQ grilled chicken legs

Grilled chicken legs are a delicious and easy meal to make for a summer cookout, picnic, or family gathering. They are also a great option if you are on a budget or feeding a crowd.

  • Potato salad
  • Corn on the cob
  • French fries
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Green salad
  • Pasta salad
  • Grilled vegetables
  • Coleslaw
  • Roasted vegetables (e.g. brussels sprouts, parsnip fries, or cauliflower bites)
  • Pickles
  • Rice
  • Tomato basil salad
  • Air fryer potato wedges
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Tomato and cucumber salad

Frequently asked questions

The cooking time will depend on the size of the chicken legs and the heat of your grill. Smaller drumsticks will take less time to cook than bigger ones. Bone-in chicken drumsticks will take around 35-40 minutes to cook.

Set your grill to medium-high heat, between 400-450°F.

The best way to tell if your chicken legs are cooked is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, but for optimal taste and texture, you should cook the chicken to 170-185°F.

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