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December 10, 2024
If you love the smoky and charred flavors of grilled chicken, then cooking chicken legs on a charcoal grill is a perfect choice. However, the key to perfectly cooked and juicy chicken legs lies in the cooking time. Overcooking can dry out the meat, while undercooking can leave it raw and unsafe to eat. In this article, we will guide you on how long to cook chicken legs on a charcoal grill to achieve that deliciously grilled chicken.
To ensure safety, it is essential to cook the chicken legs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The cooking time will depend on various factors such as the size of the chicken legs, the heat intensity of your charcoal grill, and personal preference for doneness. Generally, chicken legs take about 25-30 minutes to cook on a charcoal grill.
Keep in mind that it’s crucial to have a two-zone fire when grilling chicken legs on charcoal. This means one side of the grill should be hotter for searing the chicken and creating those distinct grill marks, while the other side should have lower heat for indirect cooking to ensure even doneness.
Start by preheating your charcoal grill and cleaning the grates thoroughly. Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Season the chicken legs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices or marinade. Place the chicken legs directly over the hot side of the grill and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side.
After achieving a nice sear, move the chicken legs to the indirect heat side of the grill. Close the lid and let them cook for another 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they reach the safe internal temperature. To be sure, you can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature at the thickest part of the chicken leg without touching the bone.
Once the chicken legs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will ensure that the juices redistribute, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat. Now you can enjoy your perfectly grilled chicken legs with your favorite sides and sauces!
Preparation
Before you can start cooking chicken legs on a charcoal grill, there are a few steps you need to follow for proper preparation:
1. Trim the chicken legs
Start by trimming any excess fat or loose skin from the chicken legs. This will help prevent flare-ups and ensure even cooking.
2. Season the chicken legs
Next, season the chicken legs with your desired seasonings. You can use a store-bought chicken seasoning blend or create your own using a combination of herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Make sure to coat the chicken legs evenly with the seasoning.
3. Let the chicken legs marinate (optional)
If you have enough time, you can let the seasoned chicken legs marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This step is optional but can add extra flavor to the chicken.
4. Preheat the charcoal grill
Before cooking, preheat the charcoal grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken legs cook evenly and develop a nice sear on the outside.
5. Prepare the charcoal
While the grill is preheating, prepare the charcoal by placing it in a charcoal chimney starter. Light the charcoal using either newspaper or lighter cubes and let it burn until the coals turn gray and are covered in ash.
6. Arrange the charcoal for indirect grilling
Once the charcoal is ready, carefully pour it onto one side of the grill, creating a two-zone fire. The side with the charcoal will be the direct heat zone, and the side without charcoal will be the indirect heat zone.
7. Oil the grill grates
Before placing the chicken legs on the grill, oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Use tongs and a folded paper towel soaked in vegetable oil to rub over the grates.
8. Place the chicken legs on the grill
Finally, place the seasoned chicken legs on the indirect heat zone of the grill. Close the lid and let them cook, flipping occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This typically takes about 25-30 minutes.
Remember to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken legs for doneness.
Once the chicken legs are fully cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and result in tender and juicy chicken.
Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken legs!
Marinating the Chicken Legs
Marinating chicken legs before grilling them on a charcoal grill is a great way to infuse them with flavor and improve their tenderness. You can use a variety of marinades, depending on your taste preferences.
Choosing a Marinade
When selecting a marinade, consider complementary flavors that will pair well with the natural taste of chicken. Popular choices include:
- Teriyaki: A sweet and savory Japanese marinade made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
- Lemon Herb: A fresh and tangy marinade made with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs such as rosemary and thyme.
- BBQ: A classic choice, BBQ marinades can range from sweet to smoky and can be made with ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
Marinating the Chicken Legs
To marinate chicken legs, follow these steps:
- Clean the chicken legs thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the marinade by combining the ingredients in a bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
- Place the chicken legs in the marinade, making sure they are fully covered. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly.
- Refrigerate the chicken legs for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. For maximum flavor, marinate them overnight.
- When ready to grill, remove the chicken legs from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
Now that your chicken legs are marinated, they are ready to be cooked on a charcoal grill. Follow the grilling instructions to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
Preparing the grill
Before you start cooking your chicken legs on a charcoal grill, it’s important to properly prepare the grill. Follow these steps to ensure your grill is ready for cooking:
Gather your supplies
Make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand before you start. This includes charcoal, lighter fluid, a chimney starter, and a grill brush.
Clean the grill
Remove any debris or ash from your grill using a grill brush. This will help ensure even heat distribution and prevent any flavors from sticking to your chicken legs.
Light the charcoal
If you’re using a charcoal grill, you’ll need to light the charcoal first. Fill a chimney starter with charcoal and add lighter fluid to the bottom. Let it sit for a few minutes, then light the charcoal with a match or lighter. Wait until the charcoal is fully lit and covered with gray ash before proceeding.
Note: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lighting your specific charcoal grill.
Spread the charcoal
Once the charcoal is ready, carefully dump it onto one side of the grill. Spread it out evenly using a grill tool or long-handled tongs. This will create two heat zones on your grill – direct heat for searing and indirect heat for slow cooking.
Remember: Properly preparing the grill is crucial for achieving delicious and evenly cooked chicken legs. Take your time and make sure you have everything in order before proceeding to the next step.
Cooking the Chicken Legs
Grilling chicken legs on a charcoal grill is a delicious and popular way to cook this cut of meat. To achieve perfectly cooked and flavorful chicken legs, follow these steps:
- Prepare the chicken legs by removing any excess fat or skin. Rinse them thoroughly with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken legs with your preferred dry rub or marinade. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- Prepare the charcoal grill by lighting the charcoal and letting it burn until covered with white ash. Arrange the charcoal on one side of the grill, creating a hot zone and a cooler zone.
- Place the chicken legs directly on the hot zone of the grill, skin side down. Allow them to cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the skin is crispy and browned.
- Move the chicken legs to the cooler zone of the grill and cover it with the lid. Cook the chicken legs for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Check the chicken legs for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone. If the temperature reads 165°F (74°C) or higher, the chicken legs are ready.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in more tender and flavorful meat.
Grilled chicken legs are a versatile dish that can be served on their own as a main course or used in various recipes. Enjoy!
Checking for doneness
When grilling chicken legs on a charcoal grill, it’s important to ensure that they are cooked through and safe to eat. Here are a few ways to check for doneness:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Temping | Using a meat thermometer, check the internal temperature of the chicken. The thickest part of the leg should register at least 165°F (74°C) to be considered fully cooked. |
| 2. Visual cues | Look for crispy, golden-brown skin. If the skin is charred and blackened, it may indicate overcooking. |
| 3. Juices | Pierce the chicken leg with a fork or knife. If the juices run clear and not pink, it’s a good indication that the chicken is cooked. |
| 4. Texture | The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. If it’s still tough and difficult to separate, it may need more time on the grill. |
Remember to never guess when it comes to the doneness of chicken. It’s important to ensure that it is cooked thoroughly to prevent any risk of foodborne illnesses. Use these methods to ensure your grilled chicken legs are perfectly cooked every time.
Q&A
How long should I cook chicken legs on a charcoal grill?
Chicken legs should be cooked on a charcoal grill for about 25-30 minutes, turning them every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking.
What temperature should I cook chicken legs on a charcoal grill?
The charcoal grill should be preheated to a medium-high heat, around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit, for cooking chicken legs.
Should I put sauce on chicken legs before or after grilling?
It is best to apply sauce to chicken legs during the last 5-10 minutes of grilling. This allows the sauce to caramelize and add flavor without burning.
How can I ensure that chicken legs are cooked thoroughly on a charcoal grill?
To ensure that chicken legs are cooked thoroughly on a charcoal grill, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the leg and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I marinate chicken legs before grilling them on a charcoal grill?
Yes, marinating chicken legs before grilling can add flavor and help to keep them moist. It is recommended to marinate them for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator before grilling.