There’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly grilled or smoked chicken leg—crispy, caramelized skin giving way to juicy, fall-off-the-bone meat, all coated in a sticky, finger-licking BBQ glaze. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout, prepping for game day, or just craving that smoky-sweet flavor, chicken legs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re affordable, forgiving to cook, and packed with flavor when done right. But how do you get that ideal balance of crispy skin and tender meat every single time?
This list is your go-to guide for mastering BBQ chicken legs, no matter your cooking style. We’ve gathered 12 foolproof recipes that cover all the classics—like honey-glazed, spicy chipotle, and tangy Carolina-style—plus bold new twists like Korean gochujang BBQ and jerk-marinated drumsticks. You’ll learn the secrets to getting that irresistible crunch (hint: it’s all about dry brining and high heat), how to build layers of flavor with rubs, marinades, and sauces, and the best techniques for grilling, smoking, or even oven-roasting when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Imagine pulling apart tender meat that’s been slow-smoked over hickory, basting drumsticks in a bourbon-peach glaze as they char over open flames, or serving up sticky-sweet garlic butter chicken legs that disappear within minutes. These recipes guarantee juicy results every time, with tips to avoid dried-out meat or rubbery skin. Plus, we’ve included easy sides and dipping sauces to round out your spread.
So grab your tongs, stock up on napkins (because things are about to get messy), and let’s dive into the best BBQ chicken leg recipes that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds—and thirds.
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Thighs
These Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Thighs are a mouthwatering treat that combines tender, juicy chicken with a smoky, spicy kick. The blend of chipotle peppers and rich barbecue sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for grilling season. Plus, they’re simple to make, making them a great choice for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
With a few ingredients and some time on the grill, you’ll achieve crispy skin and succulent meat every time. Serve these thighs at your next barbecue, and watch them disappear!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup chipotle barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the chicken thighs to coat them evenly.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with chipotle barbecue sauce for added flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Crispy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Legs
Air fryer BBQ chicken legs are a fantastic way to enjoy crispy skin and juicy meat without the guilt of traditional frying. The combination of savory spices and tangy barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s irresistible. Plus, cooking in an air fryer is quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
This recipe is simple enough for anyone to follow, and it delivers delicious results every time. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a plate of crispy chicken legs that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken legs and toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Add Chicken to Air Fryer: Place the seasoned chicken legs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other.
- Cook: Air fry the chicken legs for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
- Serve: Once cooked through and crispy, remove the chicken legs from the air fryer. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Spicy Jerk BBQ Chicken Legs
Spicy jerk BBQ chicken legs are a fantastic way to bring some Caribbean flavor to your cookout. With a blend of spices that pack a punch, these legs are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The heat from the jerk seasoning, combined with a hint of sweetness, creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. Just marinate, grill, and enjoy the delicious results!
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, jerk seasoning, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken legs and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your spicy jerk BBQ chicken legs with your favorite sides!
Crispy Baked BBQ Chicken Legs
This recipe for crispy baked BBQ chicken legs is sure to become a family favorite. With juicy, tender meat and a delightful crispy skin, these chicken legs pack a flavorful punch. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce adds the perfect finishing touch, making them irresistible.
Best of all, this dish is simple to prepare, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Just pop them in the oven, and you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken legs and toss until well coated.
- Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, brush the barbecue sauce over the chicken legs for that sticky, flavorful glaze.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your crispy baked BBQ chicken legs!
Sticky Asian BBQ Chicken Legs
Sticky Asian BBQ chicken legs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The sticky glaze, packed with soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil, gives the chicken a mouthwatering shine while ensuring the skin remains crispy. Plus, this recipe is simple enough for any home cook to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues.
The rich umami flavor pairs beautifully with fresh herbs and crunchy vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Serve these chicken legs alongside a bed of rice or grilled veggies for a complete dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Place the chicken legs in a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag, ensuring the chicken is well-coated, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top for better airflow.
- Bake the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the wire rack. Reserve the marinade for later. Bake for 30-35 minutes, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- Add the Finishing Touch: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken for a nutty crunch. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro, and serve hot.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Legs
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Legs are a delightful treat for any BBQ lover. The bright, zesty flavors of lemon combined with fresh herbs create a refreshing marinade that enhances the tender chicken. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers perfectly crispy skin with juicy meat, making it a winning dish for gatherings or family dinners.
The marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy taste that complements the smokiness from grilling. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and promises delicious results that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken legs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Legs with your favorite sides!
Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Drumsticks
Grilled honey garlic chicken drumsticks are a delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a sweet and savory twist. This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic, creating a tantalizing glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The result is crispy skin on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth meat on the inside. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive for entertaining.
With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be savoring these flavorful drumsticks in no time. The honey adds a hint of sweetness, while the garlic brings in a savory depth. Perfect for family gatherings or a casual cookout, these drumsticks will surely become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Whisk until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and are nicely charred.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your sweet and savory grilled honey garlic chicken drumsticks!
Slow-Cooked BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
This slow-cooked BBQ chicken drumsticks recipe is perfect for those who crave juicy, tender meat with a deliciously crispy skin. The combination of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a breeze to make—just season the chicken, slather on the sauce, and let your slow cooker do the work!
In just a few hours, you’ll have a delightful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. These drumsticks are not only tasty but also easy to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy nights. Serve them with coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the drumsticks.
- Slow Cook: Place the seasoned drumsticks in the slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over the top, ensuring all the chicken is coated.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Finish: If you prefer crispy skin, you can broil the drumsticks in the oven for 5-7 minutes after slow cooking.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Crispy Southern Fried BBQ Chicken Legs
Crispy Southern Fried BBQ Chicken Legs are a delicious and mouthwatering dish that brings together the best of both worlds: crunchy skin and succulent meat. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner, offering a taste that’s both comforting and satisfying.
The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a delightful flavor profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, so you can whip it up without a fuss!
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken legs in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each leg in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until hot.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully add the chicken legs to the hot oil. Fry for about 10-12 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Once cooked, remove the chicken and let it rest for a few minutes. Brush with BBQ sauce before serving.
Herb-Crusted BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Herb-Crusted BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a fantastic way to enjoy tender meat with a crispy finish. The blend of savory herbs and a delicious BBQ glaze creates a mouthwatering flavor that makes these drumsticks irresistible. Perfect for summer cookouts or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to tackle, even if you’re new to grilling.
The combination of fresh herbs, spices, and barbecue sauce gives these chicken drumsticks a delightful kick that pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw or grilled vegetables. You’ll love how the skin crisps up to perfection while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy yet impressive dish!
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken drumsticks and toss until evenly coated.
- Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ sauce over the drumsticks for a sticky, flavorful finish.
- Remove the drumsticks from the grill, let them rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Thighs
Maple mustard BBQ chicken thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will make your taste buds sing. These thighs are juicy on the inside and have that crispy skin everyone loves, making them perfect for any BBQ gathering or weeknight dinner.
This recipe is simple to whip up, using everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Pair them with your favorite sides, and you’re in for a treat!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown, then flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your sweet and tangy BBQ chicken thighs!
Zesty BBQ Marinade Chicken Legs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these zesty BBQ chicken legs! The marinade combines tangy and sweet elements that perfectly complement the juicy chicken, creating an irresistible dish. Plus, this recipe is simple to whip up, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
The combination of spices and fresh ingredients in the marinade ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. You’ll love the crispy skin that results from grilling or baking, while the tender meat falls off the bone. It’s a surefire hit with family and friends!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken legs in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each leg is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill or bake the chicken legs for about 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your zesty BBQ chicken legs with your favorite sides!
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken legs are the ultimate balance of simplicity and big, bold flavor. With these 12 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to keep your cookouts exciting. Whether you prefer classic smoky-sweet, fiery heat, or something totally unexpected, there’s a method here to match your taste. The best part? Chicken legs are practically foolproof—so even if you’re new to grilling, you’ll pull off juicy, crispy-skinned perfection every time. Fire up the coals, slather on the sauce, and get ready for the most flavorful chicken legs you’ve ever made. Your next BBQ masterpiece starts now.
