Introduction
Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious barbecue. If you’re looking for a simple and flavorful recipe to try, look no further than grilled chicken legs. This classic dish is easy to make, and the result is tender and juicy chicken with a smoky and charred flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply want to enjoy a tasty meal with your family, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
To prepare this mouthwatering grilled chicken legs recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 chicken legs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Marinating the Chicken Legs
Before grilling the chicken legs, it’s important to marinate them to enhance their flavor and tenderness. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. Place the chicken legs in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preparing the Grill
While the chicken legs are marinating, you can start preparing the grill. If you’re using a charcoal grill, light the briquettes and let them burn until they turn gray and ashy. Spread the coals evenly across the grill, leaving a small space on one side for indirect cooking. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it to medium heat.
Grilling the Chicken Legs
Once the grill is ready, carefully place the marinated chicken legs on the grates. Cook the chicken over direct heat for about 5 minutes per side to get a nice sear and grill marks. After that, move the chicken to the indirect heat side of the grill and cover it with the lid. Let the chicken cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the chicken legs are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures moist and tender meat. Serve the grilled chicken legs with your favorite sides, such as corn on the cob, coleslaw, or potato salad. You can also brush the chicken with some barbecue sauce for an extra kick of flavor. Enjoy the delicious and smoky taste of perfectly grilled chicken legs!
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to help you achieve the best results with this grilled chicken legs recipe:
- Make sure to preheat the grill properly to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Leave enough space between the chicken legs for proper heat circulation.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This ensures that it’s fully cooked.
- Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to add variety to your grilled chicken legs.
- Clean and oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Grilled chicken legs are a fantastic choice for any summer barbecue or outdoor gathering. This recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a delicious and satisfying meal. The combination of the flavorful marinade and the smoky taste from the grill makes these chicken legs a crowd-pleaser. So fire up your grill, gather your family and friends, and enjoy the wonderful taste of grilled chicken legs this summer!