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Best Grilled BBQ Chicken Legs - Juicy Charred Drumsticks with Perfect Grill Marks

These juicy grilled chicken legs develop a beautiful charred exterior while staying incredibly tender inside, making them the ultimate crowd-pleasing main dish for any outdoor meal. The recipe features a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors with professional-level grill marks that anyone can master.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2-2.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt.
  2. Rub the olive oil evenly over all the drumsticks, then sprinkle the spice mixture generously over each piece, making sure to coat all sides. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Create two heat zones - one side with direct heat and the other with indirect heat.
  4. Place the drumsticks on the direct heat side of the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until you achieve beautiful grill marks. Then move the chicken to the indirect heat side, cover the grill, and cook for another 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  5. While the chicken cooks, mix the barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar and honey. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the sauce generously over the drumsticks. Apply multiple thin layers rather than one thick coat.
  6. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Maintain consistent grill temperature to prevent sauce from burning. Place chicken at 45-degree angle to grill grates for perfect crosshatch marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.