How To Cook Chicken Legs On Traeger

Mastering the Perfect Traeger Chicken Legs

When it comes to cooking chicken, there’s nothing quite like the smoky flavor and tender texture that can be achieved on a Traeger grill. If you’re a fan of juicy, flavorful chicken legs, then you’re in for a treat because we have all the tips and tricks you need to become a Traeger chicken leg master!

1. Start with Quality Chicken Legs

Before you begin grilling, it’s essential to select high-quality chicken legs. Look for legs that are plump and have smooth skin. Fresh, organic chicken legs tend to have superior taste and texture. Make sure to rinse the chicken legs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels before moving on.

2. Prepare a Flavorful Rub

A delicious rub can elevate the taste of your chicken legs. Combine your favorite spices and herbs to make a flavorful rub. Some popular options include smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken legs, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides.

3. Preheat Your Traeger Grill

Preheating the Traeger grill is crucial to ensure even cooking. Set your Traeger to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). Allow the grill to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes before placing the chicken legs on the grates.

4. Arrange the Chicken Legs on the Grill

Once the grill has reached the desired temperature, arrange the chicken legs on the grates. Be sure to leave some space between each leg to allow for proper airflow and even cooking. Close the lid and let the Traeger work its magic.

5. Monitor and Rotate

It’s essential to monitor your chicken legs while they cook. Depending on the size of the legs, they will generally take around 45-60 minutes to cook thoroughly. To ensure even cooking and prevent any charred spots, rotate the legs every 15 minutes using tongs or a spatula.

6. Use a Meat Thermometer

For perfectly cooked chicken legs, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the leg without touching the bone. The chicken is considered safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Baste with Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer your chicken legs saucy, you can baste them with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Brush the sauce onto each leg and continue cooking until the sauce caramelizes slightly.

8. Rest and Enjoy

Once your chicken legs have reached the perfect internal temperature, carefully remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful chicken legs. Serve them up with your favorite sides and enjoy!

By following these steps, you’ll be able to impress your family and friends with perfectly cooked Traeger chicken legs every time. The smoky flavors and tender texture will have everyone asking for seconds. So fire up your Traeger grill and get ready to take your chicken game to a whole new level!