Oven-Baked Bbq Chicken Legs: A Simple, Tasty Treat

how to make bbq chicken legs in oven

BBQ chicken legs are a great option for those who want to enjoy barbecue chicken without using a grill. This easy-to-make dish combines crispy, baked chicken legs with a tangy barbecue sauce. The oven-baked method makes it versatile and can be made all year round, whether you're craving BBQ chicken during cold winter months or don't have the right weather to fire up the grill. The key to delicious BBQ chicken legs is in the rub—a perfect blend of spices and seasonings—and the sauce, which can be your favourite store-bought brand or a homemade concoction.

Characteristics Values
Oven temperature 350-400°F
Baking time 40-50 minutes
BBQ sauce application Before and after baking
Baking vessel Roasting tin or baking sheet
Baking vessel lining Aluminum foil or parchment paper
Chicken quantity 12 drumsticks
Chicken type Skin-on or skinless
Chicken seasoning Garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground ginger, salt, and pepper

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Choosing your chicken pieces

The type of chicken pieces you choose for your BBQ chicken legs can depend on a few factors, such as personal preference, availability, and desired cooking time. Here are some options to consider:

Chicken Drumsticks

Chicken drumsticks, or chicken legs, are the most common choice for this recipe. They are easy to find in supermarkets and typically sold with the skin on, which helps keep the meat juicy during cooking. Drumsticks also tend to be a good size for individual servings.

Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs are a great alternative to drumsticks and are similar in size, making them a straightforward swap. They have a higher fat content than drumsticks, so they will be even juicier and more flavourful. Chicken thighs are also readily available with the skin on.

Chicken Breasts

Chicken breasts are a leaner option compared to drumsticks or thighs. They are larger and can be cut into portions if needed. Chicken breasts are also versatile and can be used with or without the bone. However, they have a tendency to dry out more quickly, so be mindful of cooking times.

Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are smaller and perfect for bite-sized portions or appetisers. They are usually cooked faster than other chicken pieces, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. Chicken wings are often enjoyed with a variety of sauces for dipping.

Bone-in vs. Boneless

You can choose between bone-in or boneless options for most chicken pieces. Bone-in chicken tends to be more flavourful and juicy, as the bone helps conduct heat and keeps the meat moist. Boneless chicken, on the other hand, is easier to eat and can be more convenient for certain dishes.

Skin-on vs. Skinless

Chicken pieces with the skin on are generally preferred for BBQ chicken legs, as the skin helps seal in moisture during cooking. It also adds flavour and texture to the dish. However, if you prefer to remove the skin before eating, you can do so after cooking. Skinless chicken is also an option but may require slightly different handling to prevent drying out.

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Preparing your rub

Firstly, gather your ingredients. For the rub, you will need a blend of spices and seasonings such as all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, ground black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can adjust the quantities of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences.

Next, prepare your mixing bowl. Combine all the spices and seasonings in a small bowl and mix them together thoroughly. Ensure that the spices are well blended to create a harmonious flavour profile for your chicken.

Now, it's time to prepare the chicken. Start by patting the chicken drumsticks dry using paper towels. Removing any excess moisture from the surface of the chicken will help the rub adhere better and promote even cooking.

Once the chicken is dry, it's time to coat it with a fat or oil. You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil for this step. Drizzle or brush the oil onto the chicken pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Now, it's time to apply the rub. Take your prepared spice mixture and generously spread it over the chicken pieces. Use your hands or a spoon to toss the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly and thoroughly coated with the rub. If needed, you can add more flour or spices to achieve the desired coating.

At this stage, you can choose to let the chicken pieces sit for a while, allowing the rub to infuse its flavours into the meat. This step is optional but can enhance the taste of your BBQ chicken.

Finally, your chicken is ready to be cooked! Preheat your oven to the desired temperature, usually around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit, and bake the chicken according to your chosen recipe.

Remember, the secret to delicious BBQ chicken legs is in the rub, so take your time preparing it, and don't be afraid to experiment with different spice combinations to find your perfect blend.

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Applying the rub

The secret to the best BBQ chicken is in the rub! A perfect blend of spices and seasoning gives the best results. For the rub, you can use a blend of all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, regular paprika, salt, ground black pepper, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Preparing the chicken

Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This step is important for the drumsticks to be crispy, so don't skip it. Once the chicken is dry, coat it with olive oil.

Now, spread the BBQ rub over the chicken pieces and toss to coat. If needed, you can add more flour or spices. You want an evenly coated, dry chicken.

Make sure to get the rub into all the nooks and crannies of the chicken. Use your hands to really work it in, and don't be afraid to get messy! You can wear gloves if you prefer, but it's not necessary.

Once the chicken is evenly coated, give it a few good taps to remove any excess rub. You don't want big clumps of seasoning falling off during cooking.

Baking the chicken

Arrange the chicken pieces on a prepared baking sheet and bake for 40-45 minutes. The high heat will help crisp up the skin without making it rubbery, so it's important to get the temperature just right.

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and coat it with BBQ sauce. Then, bake for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavours to meld.

Your chicken is now ready to be served! Enjoy the juicy, tender, and flavourful BBQ chicken legs!

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Baking the chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminium foil. Set it aside.

Pat the chicken dry using paper towels. This step is important for the drumsticks to be crispy, so don't skip it.

Once the chicken is dry, coat it with olive oil. Then, spread the BBQ rub over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat. If needed, you can add more flour or spices. Aim for an evenly coated, dry chicken.

Arrange the chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes.

When the time is up, remove the chicken from the oven and coat it with BBQ sauce. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Remove the chicken from the oven, turn the legs over, and brush again with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for another 7-10 minutes.

Your chicken is ready to serve!

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Adding the sauce

Now for the fun part: adding the sauce!

You can use a store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own from scratch. If you're making your own, try a blend of ketchup, vinegar, water, brown sugar, butter, salt, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, and chilli powder. You could also add some liquid smoke to your sauce for an extra smoky flavour.

When your chicken legs are cooked, remove them from the oven and brush each one generously with your chosen BBQ sauce. Make sure you get an even coating all over the legs. If you like a lot of sauce, you can add multiple layers.

Once you've sauced your chicken, put it back in the oven and bake for another 7-15 minutes. Then, flip the legs and repeat the process, brushing them with more sauce and baking for another 7-15 minutes.

If you want to add even more sauce, you can make a second batch to serve with the chicken.

Frequently asked questions

It depends on the size of the chicken legs and the temperature of the oven. Typically, it takes around 40-50 minutes to bake chicken legs at 350-400°F (177-204°C).

You will need chicken drumsticks or legs, barbecue sauce, and various spices for a rub, such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

It is recommended to marinate the chicken in the spice rub for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour if you have the time. This allows the flavours to infuse into the meat.

It is recommended to start baking at a higher temperature of around 400°F (204°C) and then reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C) when applying the barbecue sauce.

You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The minimum safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). You can also check by cutting into the thickest part of the meat to ensure it is no longer pink and the juices run clear.

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