Dinner tonight, BBQ Chicken Legs

Instructions for Making BBQ Chicken Legs

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Grill

If you’re cooking in the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). If you’re grilling, prepare your grill for indirect heat by setting it up for medium-high heat, leaving one side cooler for cooking the chicken legs without direct flames.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Legs

Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up in the oven or on the grill. Drizzle the chicken legs with olive oil and rub them in to coat the chicken evenly.

Next, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and thyme (if using). These seasonings add depth of flavor and enhance the taste of the chicken.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Legs

Oven Method: Place the seasoned chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the chicken in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is cooked through.

Grill Method: Place the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat) and close the lid. Grill for about 25-30 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the chicken, and once the legs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), they’re ready to be sauced.

Step 4: Add the BBQ Sauce

Once the chicken legs are nearly cooked through and have developed a nice golden crust, it’s time to brush on the BBQ sauce. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on each chicken leg, making sure to coat them evenly. If you’re grilling, move the chicken over to direct heat and cook for another 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, so the sauce caramelizes and becomes sticky. If you’re baking, return the chicken to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce set.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the BBQ sauce has caramelized and the chicken is fully cooked, remove the chicken legs from the oven or grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped green onions if desired, and serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, roasted potatoes, or cornbread.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Legs

1. Don’t Overcook: To keep the chicken juicy, make sure you don’t overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. Grill with Indirect Heat: If grilling, cooking the chicken over indirect heat ensures it cooks through without burning. You can then use direct heat to caramelize the BBQ sauce for a crispy finish.
3. Choose a Good BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce is the star of the dish, so choose a high-quality one that suits your flavor preferences. Whether you like it sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy, a good BBQ sauce can make a huge difference.
4. Double Coating of Sauce: For an extra saucy kick, apply two layers of BBQ sauce. Brush the first layer on during the last few minutes of cooking, and add a second layer once the chicken is done for a flavorful, sticky finish.
5. Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, making the chicken even juicier.

Delicious Sides to Serve with BBQ Chicken Legs

BBQ chicken legs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Coleslaw: The creamy, crunchy texture of coleslaw balances the smoky richness of the BBQ chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, corn on the cob with a bit of butter is a classic BBQ side.
• Mac and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese pairs beautifully with the savory chicken, adding a cheesy, comforting element to the meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
• French Fries: Crispy fries are always a hit, and they’re perfect for dipping in extra BBQ sauce.

Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Legs

BBQ Chicken Legs are the ultimate easy dinner that delivers incredible flavor without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re cooking indoors or on the grill, the combination of crispy chicken skin, tender meat, and sweet-and-tangy BBQ sauce makes for a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your taste, so feel free to get creative with different BBQ sauces and seasonings.

So, the next time you’re wondering what to make for dinner tonight, remember this recipe for BBQ Chicken Legs. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion—your family will thank you for it!