Description
This Grilled Chicken Legs recipe features juicy, flavorful chicken drumsticks marinated in a blend of smoked paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs, then grilled to perfection with crispy, charred skin. Perfect for backyard cookouts or a delicious weeknight dinner, these chicken legs are easy to prepare, packed with aroma, and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs)
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice if using. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl with the marinade and toss them well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for a deeper infusion of flavors.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375–400°F (190–200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and prepare for the chicken.
- Grill the chicken: Place the marinated chicken legs on the grill. Grill for 30 to 35 minutes, turning every 5 to 7 minutes to promote even cooking and achieve a crispy skin. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve hot alongside your favorite sides for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to ensure food safety and juiciness.
- For added zest, include fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a garnish.
- If you don’t have a grill, this recipe can be adapted to an oven by roasting at 400°F for about 35-40 minutes.
- Resting the meat before serving ensures maximum juiciness.
