baked bbq chicken legs recipe

baked bbq chicken legs recipe

The Best baked bbq chicken legs recipe

I’ve been making this baked BBQ chicken legs recipe for years, and it’s still a crowd-pleaser in my household. The dish originated from the Southern United States, where BBQ is a staple. I love how the sweetness of the BBQ sauce pairs with the smoky flavor of the chicken.

The key to this recipe is to marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, and spices before baking it in the oven. This technique ensures that the chicken stays moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process. As a home cook, I appreciate how easy this recipe is to prepare.

Simply mix together your marinade ingredients, add them to a large bowl with your chicken legs, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Then, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. My family loves this recipe because it’s so versatile.

We can serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. Alternatively, we can serve it as an appetizer or snack for a party. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time and reheat when needed.

In terms of health benefits, this recipe is relatively low-calorie compared to other fried or breaded chicken dishes. The BBQ sauce adds a bit of sugar, but overall, this recipe is a great option for those looking for a quick and easy meal that won’t compromise their diet. One thing I appreciate about this recipe is how well it stores in the fridge or freezer for later use.

Simply let the cooked chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge or up to two months in the freezer.

Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

4.6 from 1038 votes

These baked BBQ chicken legs are juicy and flavorful with a sticky, caramelized coating. They are easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

8 chicken legs (drumsticks), about 2 pounds
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the BBQ Sauce

1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3In a large bowl, combine the chicken legs with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
5Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
6Bake for 25 minutes.
7While the chicken bakes, prepare the BBQ sauce.
8In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
9Stir and bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
10Remove from heat.
11After 25 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven.
12Brush each chicken leg generously with the prepared BBQ sauce, coating all sides.
13Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
14Check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of a leg; it should register 165°F (74°C).
15The sauce should be sticky and caramelized.
16Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Baking sheet
Aluminum foil
Small saucepan
Basting brush

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 145mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 15g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken legs in the BBQ sauce for up to 2 hours before baking. You can also use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce to save time.

Watch Video Of How Baked BBQ Chicken Legs Works

This baked BBQ chicken legs recipe has been a staple in my household for years due to its ease of preparation and versatility in serving options.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a quick meal solution, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

One thing I appreciate about this recipe is how well it stores in the fridge or freezer for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

Q: What type of BBQ sauce should I use?

For this recipe, I recommend using a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that complements the smoky flavor of the chicken. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce; either way, make sure it’s free from added sugars.

Q: Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of legs?

No, boneless chicken breasts will not yield the same results as legs. Chicken legs have more surface area and connective tissue that helps them retain moisture during cooking.

Q: How do I prevent my chicken from drying out?

To prevent drying out, make sure to not overcook your chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature (165°F), and adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, you can grill your chicken instead of baking it. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F) and cook for about 20-25 minutes per side or until cooked through.

Q: Can I substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream?

No, Greek yogurt provides a unique texture that complements the smoky flavor of the chicken better than sour cream.

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