Grilled Barbecued Chicken Legs

Barbecued chicken drumsticks are one of my favorite summertime dishes. The deep red caramelized sauce made up of sweet, savory, and smoky flavor is what summer grilling is all about. When barbecued chicken is done right, it can be love at first bite. In terms of popularity, the chicken drumstick often plays second or third fiddle to the breast. But the kid in me loves eating the drumstick especially when it is covered in barbecue sauce. Who can resist licking the sticky sweet smoky sauce from their fingertips when enjoying barbecue chicken right off the grill? Impossible.

If you've ever tried grilling barbecued drumsticks straight from the package to the grill, then you may have experienced love at first sight but not at first bite. I remember being a newlywed 13 years ago and my husband flexing his barbecue skills at the grill. When he plated these beautifully deep red chicken legs which were charred just right, I was so excited to dig in and eat. That is until I bit into raw chicken. My excitement deflated into confusion and a form of hanger (hunger + anger). Seriously, how long does it take to grill chicken? You would think 15-20 minutes on the grill would suffice, but no not even close.

Due to the thick bone in drumsticks, this part of the chicken takes a lot more time to cook. In fact, much longer than a large piece of boneless chicken breast. However, if you are willing to invest some time in preparing drumsticks you will be rewarded handsomely.

The key to great barbecued chicken legs is to soak them in a brine (salt bath) for 3-4 hours. The brine is made up of water, salt, sugar, and a touch of apple cider vinegar. Salt not only flavors the meat but it also helps to break down the muscle and tenderize the meat allowing the meat to soak up water producing a flavorful and moist piece of meat. The sugar helps balance the saltiness of the brine.

Brining and par-roasting the chicken in the oven then finishing them off on the grill on medium-low heat is my secret to great grilled chicken. I cooked them on the grill already basted with my favorite barbecue sauce just long enough for it to caramelize and char nicely. If you try grilling legs with sauce for more than 10 minutes you can (and likely will) burn and overcook the chicken.

My whole family loves eating grilled barbecued chicken drumsticks, and I know your family will love eating them too. Enjoy!