BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

These BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill are a fantastic choice for any gathering! With a simple marinade that offers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, these chicken drumsticks are perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or casual summer parties. Grill them to perfection for juicy, tender meat that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: The marinade comes together quickly, making it a breeze to prepare ahead of time.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of BBQ sauce and grape jelly creates a uniquely delicious glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner, these BBQ chicken legs fit right in.
• Crowd Pleaser: With 8 servings, this dish is ideal for feeding family and friends without breaking a sweat.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start grilling your BBQ chicken legs, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation smooth and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large mixing bowl
• Gallon resealable plastic bag
• Whisk
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The grill is essential for getting those beautiful char marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Large mixing bowl: This allows you to combine the marinade ingredients effectively without spills.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature for safe eating.

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Ingredients

These grilled chicken legs are marinated in a simple BBQ marinade. Grill them and get the perfect sweet, sticky drumsticks.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds chicken legs

For the Marinade

• ½ cup bbq sauce
• ¼ cup grape jelly
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the bbq sauce, grape jelly, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Ensure everything is well combined to create a rich marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Legs

Place the chicken legs into a gallon resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the BBQ marinade over the chicken. Remove excess air from the bag and seal it tightly. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Store Remaining Marinade

Store any leftover marinade in an airtight container in the fridge for basting later while grilling.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is ideal for cooking chicken evenly without burning it.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Legs

Place the marinated chicken legs on the grill. Baste with some reserved BBQ marinade. Grill for about 30 minutes, rotating every 10 minutes and basting frequently until they reach an internal temperature of 185-190 degrees Fahrenheit.

This method guarantees deliciously succulent BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill that will impress everyone at your next meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

Serving BBQ chicken legs on the grill is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful dining experience. Pair these succulent drumsticks with sides and garnishes that complement their sweet, sticky goodness.

Classic Coleslaw

• A crunchy and refreshing side that balances the richness of BBQ chicken.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Sweet corn grilled to perfection adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the chicken.

Garlic Bread

• Toasted garlic bread serves as a perfect vehicle for soaking up any extra BBQ sauce.

Watermelon Salad

• Juicy watermelon cubes mixed with mint provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the grill.

Baked Beans

• Hearty baked beans add a touch of sweetness and protein, making them an ideal companion.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

To achieve mouthwatering BBQ chicken legs, focus on timing and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your grilling game.

• Marinate well: Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for several hours or overnight ensures deep flavor penetration.
• Preheat your grill: Starting with a properly heated grill helps achieve those desirable grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Baste often: Regularly basting with reserved marinade not only adds moisture but also enhances flavor during grilling.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure perfectly cooked chicken by checking for an internal temperature of 185-190 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let it rest: Allow grilled chicken legs to rest for a few minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

Complement your BBQ chicken legs with delicious sides that enhance your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Classic Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad offers a comforting texture that pairs well with smoky grilled flavors.
2. Grilled Vegetables
   Assorted vegetables tossed in olive oil and herbs add color, flavor, and nutrients to your plate.
3. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory chicken, perfect for soaking up sauces.
4. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides a fresh crunch alongside rich barbecue flavors.
5. Fruit Skewers
   Colorful skewers of seasonal fruits add a refreshing sweetness that complements grilled meats beautifully.
6. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf with herbs makes for an excellent base that absorbs all those tasty juices from the chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling BBQ chicken legs can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for perfect results.

• Bold marinade application: Skipping the marinade or not marinating long enough can lead to bland chicken. Always marinate for at least one hour for flavor infusion.
• Bold incorrect grill temperature: Grilling at too high a temperature can cause the outside to burn while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for a steady 350 degrees Fahrenheit for even cooking.
• Bold ignoring internal temperature: Not checking the internal temperature can result in unsafe or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer and ensure it reaches 185-190 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Bold not basting properly: Forgetting to baste during grilling may lead to dry chicken legs. Baste with reserved marinade every 10 minutes for moisture and flavor.
• Bold overcrowding the grill: Placing too many chicken legs on the grill can cause uneven cooking. Give each piece space to allow proper airflow and heat distribution.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ chicken legs in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

• Place cooled chicken legs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, place chicken legs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, cover, and reheat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making BBQ chicken legs on the grill, we’ve got answers!

How long should I marinate BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill?

You should marinate your chicken legs for at least one hour, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.

Can I use different sauces for BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces such as teriyaki or honey mustard for unique flavors.

What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill?

BBQ chicken legs go great with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob.

How do I know when my BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill are done?

Check that they reach an internal temperature of 185-190 degrees Fahrenheit using a meat thermometer.

Final Thoughts

These BBQ Chicken Legs on the Grill are not only easy to prepare but also deliciously versatile. You can customize them with various marinades and side dishes to suit any occasion. Try this recipe at your next cookout and impress your guests!