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How To Bake And Then Grill Chicken Legs

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How To Bake And Then Grill Chicken Legs

How to Bake and Grill Delicious Chicken Legs

Are you looking for a delicious and easy way to prepare chicken legs? Baking and grilling chicken legs is a fantastic way to achieve tender, juicy meat with a crispy, flavorful skin. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want to enjoy a tasty meal at home, this method is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow these simple steps to bake and grill the perfect chicken legs.

Ingredients:

  • Chicken legs
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Barbecue sauce (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Legs

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare the chicken legs. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place the chicken legs in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season the chicken legs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Baking the Chicken Legs

Once the chicken legs are seasoned, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown. Baking the chicken legs before grilling ensures that they are fully cooked and helps to render the fat, resulting in a crispy skin when grilled.

Step 3: Grilling the Chicken Legs

After the chicken legs are baked, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is hot, carefully place the baked chicken legs on the grill grates. Grill the chicken legs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they develop a delicious char and grill marks. If desired, brush the chicken legs with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling to add a sweet and tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Once the chicken legs are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite is moist and flavorful. Serve the chicken legs with your favorite side dishes, such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or enjoying a casual dinner at home, baked and grilled chicken legs are sure to be a hit.

Now that you know how to bake and grill chicken legs, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. With just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for more. So fire up the oven and grill, and get ready to enjoy the delicious results of your culinary skills!

Share your insights and experiences on how to bake and then grill chicken legs in the Cooking Techniques forum section.
FAQ:
What is the best way to season chicken legs before baking and grilling?
Before baking and grilling chicken legs, it’s best to season them with a dry rub or marinade. A simple dry rub can include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and any other preferred herbs and spices. For a marinade, you can use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Allow the chicken legs to marinate for at least 30 minutes before baking and grilling.
How long should I bake chicken legs before grilling them?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the seasoned chicken legs for about 30-35 minutes. This initial baking will ensure that the chicken legs are cooked through before finishing them on the grill.
What temperature should the grill be set to for finishing the chicken legs?
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). This high heat will help to crisp up the skin and create those desirable grill marks on the chicken legs.
Should I oil the grill before placing the chicken legs on it?
Yes, it’s important to oil the grill grates before placing the chicken legs on them. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill and will also aid in achieving those beautiful grill marks.
How long should I grill the chicken legs after baking them?
Once the grill is preheated, place the partially baked chicken legs on the grill and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. The chicken legs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and charred in spots.
What are some recommended side dishes to serve with baked and grilled chicken legs?
Baked and grilled chicken legs pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with classic options like coleslaw, corn on the cob, potato salad, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the savory and smoky flavors of the chicken legs.

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