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Best Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs - Juicy Charred Barbecue Drumsticks with Perfect Grill Marks

These grilled BBQ chicken legs develop a beautiful charred exterior while staying incredibly moist inside, creating the perfect balance of smoky flavor and tender texture. The secret lies in proper seasoning, controlled grilling temperatures, and knowing exactly when to apply that sweet, tangy barbecue sauce for maximum flavor impact.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.
  2. Brush the chicken legs lightly with olive oil, then rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides. Let the chicken rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes while you prepare the grill.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Create two heat zones - one side with direct heat and one side with indirect heat.
  4. Place the chicken legs on the direct heat side of the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until you get nice grill marks.
  5. Once both sides have good grill marks, move the chicken to the indirect heat side of the grill. Close the lid and cook for another 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with your barbecue sauce mixture (barbecue sauce mixed with apple cider vinegar and honey). Apply a thin layer and let it caramelize.
  7. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a two-zone fire to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking. Don't crowd the grill and use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. Apply barbecue sauce in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.