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Juicy and Crispy Grilled Chicken Legs with Garlic and Paprika Recipe


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4 from 52 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Grilled Chicken Legs are juicy on the inside with crispy, smoky skin and a flavorful blend of garlic, paprika, and herbs. Perfect for summer BBQs, this easy-to-make recipe delivers tender meat with a robust smoky flavor that’s enhanced by a simple marinating process.


Ingredients

Chicken

  • 8 chicken drumsticks

Marinade

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)


Instructions

  1. Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry thoroughly with paper towels to help achieve crispy skin during grilling.
  2. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional chili powder until well combined.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the marinade evenly over all the chicken drumsticks, ensuring full coverage. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb flavors.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, about 350°F to 375°F, preparing for even cooking.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken legs on the grill. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes total, turning every 5 to 7 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even cooking on all sides.
  6. Manage Browning: If the chicken skin starts to brown too quickly, move the legs to a cooler part of the grill to avoid charring while the inside cooks through.
  7. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to make sure the thickest part of a drumstick reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  8. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Notes

  • Patting the chicken dry helps the skin become crispier.
  • Add BBQ sauce during the final 3 to 5 minutes of grilling for a glazed, sticky finish.
  • Turn the chicken frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
  • Serve grilled chicken legs with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, coleslaw, or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, BBQ
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American