Description
Delicious and juicy grilled chicken legs seasoned with a smoky paprika marinade and aromatic spices, perfect for a flavorful outdoor cookout or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Legs
- 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs)
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate, or up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 375–400°F (190–200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Chicken: Place marinated chicken legs on the hot grill. Cook for 30–35 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes to ensure even cooking and to achieve crispy skin. Grill until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Serve hot alongside your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For best results, marinate chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked but not overdone.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference or swap thyme for oregano as desired.
- Can be cooked on a charcoal or gas grill.
- Lemon juice adds brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
