Alana Volkman is a culinary stylist and photographer with a special passion for the art of grilling. Her knack for bringing out the aesthetic appeal of grilled dishes is unparalleled. Alana delights in the challenge of capturing the vibrant allure of grilled cuisine in her photography and eagerly shares her grilling journey and advice.
Hey there! If you're looking to master the art of grilling chicken legs on a BBQ, you've come to the right place. I'm here to share some of the best techniques that will help you achieve perfectly grilled chicken legs every time. So, let's fire up that grill and get started!
First things first, let's talk about preparing the chicken legs. To ensure juicy and flavorful results, it's essential to marinate the chicken legs before grilling. You can use a simple marinade consisting of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken legs soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, marinating them overnight will infuse even more flavor.
Now, let's move on to the grilling process. Preheat your BBQ grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). It's important to have a well-preheated grill to ensure even cooking and to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grates.
Before placing the chicken legs on the grill, make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking. You can use a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to do this. Gently rub the oiled paper towel over the grates, and you're good to go!
When placing the chicken legs on the grill, arrange them in a single layer, making sure they are not touching each other. This allows for even heat distribution and ensures that they cook evenly. Close the lid of the grill to trap the heat and create a convection effect, which will help cook the chicken legs more evenly.
Now, let's talk about cooking time. On average, chicken legs take about 30 to 35 minutes to cook on a BBQ grill. However, it's crucial to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken legs. The chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
During the cooking process, it's essential to monitor the chicken legs and flip them occasionally to prevent them from burning. Use a pair of tongs to gently turn the chicken legs every 5 to 7 minutes. This will help achieve a beautiful golden brown color and crispy skin.
To add some extra flavor, you can baste the chicken legs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Brush the sauce on both sides of the chicken legs and let it caramelize on the grill.
Once the chicken legs reach the desired internal temperature and have a lovely golden brown color, it's time to remove them from the grill. Use a pair of tongs to transfer the chicken legs to a platter or cutting board. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
And there you have it! With these techniques, you'll be grilling chicken legs like a pro in no time. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be afraid to experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combinations.
If you're looking for more grilling tips and techniques, be sure to check out Grill Matey. We have a wide range of grilling resources, recipes, and even grilling accessories to enhance your grilling experience. Happy grilling!
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