Flavorful & Easy Asian Grilled Chicken Legs Recipe: Your Ultimate BBQ Guide

Prepare to elevate your summer barbecue with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious grilled chicken leg recipe. Succulent, juicy chicken drumsticks are seasoned with a simple yet potent spice blend, then generously coated with a homemade Asian barbecue sauce that’s delightfully sticky, sweet, and savory. This dish is guaranteed to be a hit at your next outdoor gathering!

When the warmer months arrive, my culinary focus shifts outdoors, embracing the joy of grilling. There’s an undeniable magic in the smoky aroma and sizzle of food cooking over an open flame, and few things capture that essence better than perfectly grilled chicken legs. Not only are they straightforward to prepare, but chicken drumsticks also offer a fantastic, budget-friendly option for family meals, making them a staple in my summer rotation.

Often found on sale, chicken drumsticks are excellent for stocking up your freezer, ensuring you always have a quick and flavorful dinner solution on hand. Their dark meat content means they stay incredibly moist and tender throughout the grilling process, offering a more forgiving cooking experience compared to leaner cuts. This recipe transforms humble drumsticks into a barbecue sensation, promising maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Grilled Chicken Legs Perfection: The Irresistible Asian BBQ Sauce

The standout feature of these mouthwatering grilled chicken legs is undoubtedly the homemade Asian-style barbecue sauce. It’s a harmonious blend of flavors – a little sticky, perfectly balanced between sweet and savory, with just the right amount of spicy kick. This sauce is a game-changer! One of its best qualities is its convenience: you can easily prepare it in advance and store it in your refrigerator, ready to go whenever inspiration strikes, or quickly whisk it together while your chicken is already on the grill.

What makes this recipe truly versatile is that you can apply the same fundamental grilling techniques and instructions to create an array of different flavor profiles. Imagine using your preferred dry rub, perhaps a smoky paprika blend or a zesty herb mixture (like this amazing Best Dry Rub), grilling the chicken to golden-brown perfection, and then slathering on your favorite classic barbecue sauce. Whether you crave a tangy, sweet, or spicy finish, this method ensures consistently delicious results every time.

Why Chicken Drumsticks are the Best for Grilling

Beyond their affordability, chicken drumsticks possess unique characteristics that make them the superior choice for grilling, especially for those seeking juicy and flavorful results:

• Unmatched Juiciness: Being dark meat, drumsticks have a higher fat content and are bone-in. This combination ensures they retain moisture incredibly well during the high heat of grilling, resulting in exceptionally tender and juicy meat that’s less prone to drying out than chicken breast.
• Rich Flavor Profile: Dark meat naturally offers a more robust, deeper flavor that can stand up to and beautifully absorb bold spices and sauces. The bone itself also contributes to a richer flavor as the chicken cooks.
• Consistent Cooking: Their relatively uniform shape and size make drumsticks easier to cook evenly on the grill, particularly when turned regularly. This helps prevent overcooked spots and ensures thorough doneness.
• Ideal Portion Control: Each drumstick serves as a perfect individual portion, simplifying meal planning for families and making them a convenient option for serving guests at a barbecue.
• Versatility: They are an open canvas for a myriad of flavor combinations. From the Asian BBQ sauce in this recipe to smoky dry rubs, spicy marinades, or herbaceous glazes, drumsticks can adapt to nearly any culinary theme.

Gathering Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Creating these delectable grilled chicken legs requires a careful selection of ingredients for both the robust spice rub and the star attraction – our sticky Asian Barbecue Sauce. The good news is that most of these items are likely already staples in your kitchen or readily available at your local grocery store!

For the Homemade Asian Barbecue Sauce:

• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the aromatics, building the foundational flavors of the sauce.
• Fresh Ginger (Grated): Provides a vital pungent, spicy, and subtly sweet zest that is a hallmark of authentic Asian flavors. Always opt for fresh ginger over powdered for the best taste.
• Garlic (Minced): An essential aromatic, garlic offers a deep, savory foundation that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Honey: This natural sweetener not only adds delicious flavor but also helps create that signature sticky, caramelized glaze on the chicken as it cooks on the grill.
• Sriracha: Delivers a vibrant, chili-garlic heat. You can adjust the quantity to suit your personal preference for spice.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce: Crucial for umami and a savory depth. Using a low-sodium version allows you to control the overall saltiness of your dish more effectively.
• Rice Vinegar: Introduces a bright, delicate tanginess that perfectly balances the sweetness and richness of the sauce, preventing it from being cloyingly sweet.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a burst of bright, citrusy acidity that elevates and harmonizes all the flavors.
• Orange Juice: Contributes a subtle, natural sweetness and a hint of fruity aroma, complementing the other Asian-inspired notes.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For an extra layer of heat and a visually appealing fleck of red. Add these to taste at the end of cooking.

The basic spice rub used on the chicken is designed to season the meat thoroughly without overpowering the distinct flavors of the Asian barbecue sauce. While our recipe provides a fantastic blend, feel free to use your favorite go-to dry rub if you have one you love. The key is to choose a rub that isn’t excessively smoky, as a heavy smoke flavor might compete with the vibrant Asian profile we’re aiming for. A general poultry rub or a non-smoky BBQ rub would also be excellent choices.

How To Grill Chicken Legs: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

For the exact measurements of each ingredient and a full, printable version of this recipe, please make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post where you’ll find the complete recipe card.

Grilling chicken legs to perfection is a surprisingly simple process that yields incredibly tender and flavorful results. Follow these comprehensive steps to achieve juicy, perfectly glazed drumsticks every single time:

1. Thorough Chicken Preparation: Begin by patting your chicken drumsticks very dry with paper towels. This seemingly small step is critical as it helps the spice rub adhere effectively to the skin and, more importantly, ensures you get that coveted crispy skin rather than a steamed, rubbery texture.
2. Seasoning the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients for your chosen spice rub. Once mixed, generously season the chicken drumsticks, ensuring every nook and cranny is well-coated. For optimal distribution, you can place the seasoned chicken in a large plastic bag or bowl and toss until all pieces are evenly covered. Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it on the grill. This brief rest allows the salt and spices to begin penetrating the meat and helps the chicken cook more uniformly.
3. Preheat Your Grill to Perfection: While your seasoned chicken rests, preheat your grill to a consistent medium-high heat. The ideal temperature for grilling drumsticks is around 375º F (approximately 190º C). Achieving this temperature ensures a good sear and efficient cooking throughout.
4. The Initial Grilling Phase: Once your grill is hot and ready, carefully arrange the seasoned chicken legs directly on the preheated grates. Close the lid to trap the heat and allow the chicken to cook through. To ensure even cooking and develop a beautiful char without burning, remember to flip the drumsticks every 7-8 minutes.
5. Crafting the Asian Barbecue Sauce: While the chicken is on the grill, you can prepare your sticky Asian barbecue sauce. In a small saucepan, sauté the grated fresh ginger and minced garlic in olive oil over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, until they become fragrant and slightly softened.
6. Simmering the Sauce: Add all the remaining sauce ingredients (excluding the red pepper flakes) to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil. Immediately reduce the heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken into a glossy, brushable consistency. Once thickened, stir in the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
7. Sauce Application and Caramelization: After approximately 30-35 minutes of grilling, when the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165º F (74º C) (use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part, avoiding the bone), reduce the grill heat to medium-low. Generously brush each chicken leg with your freshly prepared Asian barbecue sauce. Continue grilling for an additional 5-10 minutes, flipping periodically. This crucial step allows the sugars in the sauce to caramelize, creating a beautiful, sticky glaze that adheres perfectly to the chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 170º F (77º C) for perfectly cooked drumsticks. Be vigilant during this stage to prevent the sauce from burning due to its sugar content.
8. Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is beautifully caramelized and has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill. If you wish, garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal. Serve your perfectly grilled Asian chicken legs immediately and savor every bite!

While our Asian barbecue sauce provides an incredibly unique and delicious flavor, remember that the grilling technique is truly the star here. Feel empowered to experiment! You can easily substitute your favorite classic barbecue sauce, a sweet and savory teriyaki, a vibrant lemon-herb marinade, or virtually any other flavorful glaze to customize these grilled chicken legs to your exact preference. The core method remains consistent, offering a reliable way to achieve tender, juicy drumsticks no matter your chosen flavor profile.

How Long To Grill Chicken Legs: Precise Temperature & Timing

Achieving perfectly cooked, juicy grilled chicken legs hinges on precise temperature control and accurate timing. For this recipe, you’ll need approximately 30-35 minutes of grilling over medium-high heat for the initial cooking phase. During this period, the primary goal is to ensure the chicken cooks through to a safe internal temperature.

The most reliable way to confirm doneness is by using a digital meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumstick, making sure it doesn’t touch the bone. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165º F (74º C). Once this temperature is achieved, you will then reduce the grill heat to medium-low. This is the opportune moment to generously brush on the flavorful Asian barbecue sauce.

Continue grilling the sauced chicken for an additional 5-10 minutes. This final step allows the sugars in the sauce to beautifully caramelize, forming that highly desirable sticky and glossy glaze. During this caramelization period, the chicken’s internal temperature will typically rise to around 170º F (77º C). At this point, the dark meat of the drumstick will be fully cooked, incredibly tender, and no longer pink, even when examined near the bone, guaranteeing both food safety and an exquisite eating experience. Always rely on your meat thermometer for guaranteed results.

Pro Grilling Tips for Perfect Chicken Legs Every Time

To ensure your grilled chicken legs are consistently juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Avoid Crowding the Grill: Resist the urge to pack too many drumsticks onto the grill at once. Leave adequate space between each piece to allow for proper airflow and even heat distribution. Overcrowding can lower the grill’s temperature and cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, preventing crispy skin.
• Always Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the single most important tool for grilling chicken safely and perfectly. Visual cues like color can be misleading. An instant-read thermometer ensures your chicken reaches the correct internal temperature (165-170ºF for drumsticks) without being overcooked or undercooked.
• Start with Clean Grates: Always begin with clean grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure you get those attractive, well-defined grill marks. Before adding the chicken, you can lightly oil the hot grates by dipping a paper towel in a little oil and wiping it over the grates with tongs.
• Manage Flare-Ups: Chicken fat can drip onto the coals or burners, causing sudden flare-ups. Keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby to quickly spritz any flames that become too high. If a flare-up persists, temporarily move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill until the flames subside.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Once the chicken is removed from the grill, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Tent it loosely with foil. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a significantly more tender and succulent drumstick.
• Utilize Indirect Heat (When Necessary): If you notice the chicken skin browning too quickly before the interior is fully cooked, move the drumsticks to a cooler zone of your grill (an area without direct heat underneath) to finish cooking gently. This technique is particularly useful for thicker cuts or if you’re grilling a large batch.
• Don’t Over-Flip (But Flip Enough): While constant flipping isn’t necessary, regular rotation (every 7-8 minutes as recommended) ensures even cooking and prevents one side from burning.

What To Serve With Grilled Chicken Legs: Ideal Side Dish Pairings

These incredibly flavorful Asian grilled chicken legs are wonderfully versatile and pair beautifully with an extensive range of side dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing, a hearty starch, or vibrant vegetables, you’ll find the perfect accompaniment. For a truly complementary meal that highlights the Asian flavors, serve them alongside fluffy White Rice, perhaps with an extra drizzle of the luscious Asian barbecue sauce – always a crowd-pleaser! Beyond that, consider these excellent options:

• Crispy Air Fryer Potato Wedges: A fantastic, healthier alternative to traditional french fries, offering a satisfying crunch and savory flavor.
• Creamy Classic Potato Salad: A timeless and beloved barbecue staple that provides a comforting contrast to the grilled chicken.
• Simple Tossed Green Salad: A light, crisp, and refreshing side that provides a perfect palate cleanser. Enhance it with a ginger-sesame or soy-lime dressing to complement the Asian theme.
• Perfectly Grilled Zucchini: A healthy and flavorful vegetable side that cooks quickly and easily right alongside your chicken on the grill.
• Sweet and Tangy Coleslaw: The creamy texture and slightly tangy dressing of coleslaw cut through the richness of the chicken beautifully, offering a refreshing element.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A quintessential summer side. Brush it with butter and a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra kick that pairs well with the Asian flavors.
• Light Cucumber Salad: A cool, crisp, and often vinegary cucumber salad provides a refreshing counterpoint, especially on a hot day.
• Quick Stir-fried Vegetables: A medley of quickly stir-fried broccoli florets, bell pepper strips, and snap peas, lightly seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, would perfectly complement the Asian profile.
• Baked Beans: A classic hearty BBQ side that always satisfies.

Storage and Reheating Leftover Grilled Chicken Legs

Should you be lucky enough to have any leftover grilled chicken legs, proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining their delicious flavor and texture:

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the grilled chicken legs to cool completely to room temperature (within two hours of cooking) before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Best Reheating Methods: To revive that delightful crispy skin and juicy interior, avoid the microwave if possible.
  • Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet and reheat for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through and the skin begins to crisp up again.
  • Air Fryer: For an excellent crispy result, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are hot and the skin is deliciously crisp.
  • Microwave (Use with Caution): While the quickest option, microwaving can sometimes make the chicken rubbery. If you must use it, heat in short 30-60 second bursts until just warm, to minimize texture degradation.

More Delicious Summer Grilling Recipes to Savor

If these Asian Grilled Chicken Legs have sparked your grilling enthusiasm, you’re in luck! Here are more fantastic recipes perfect for expanding your summer cookout menu and enjoying effortless outdoor meals:

• Juicy Grilled Pork Chops: A timeless classic, seasoned and grilled to tender perfection.
• Foil-Wrapped Grilled Baked Potatoes: The ultimate fuss-free side dish, cooked right on your barbecue.
• Tender Smoked Baby Back Ribs: Indulge in fall-off-the-bone ribs that are consistently a crowd favorite.
• Gourmet Grilled Chicken Sandwich: A flavorful and satisfying sandwich, ideal for both lunch and dinner.
• Zesty Margarita Grilled Chicken: A vibrant, citrusy chicken dish bursting with fresh flavors.
• Lean Grilled Turkey Tenderloin: A lighter, healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or juiciness.
• Authentic Chicken Souvlaki Skewers: Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these delightful skewers.

5 from 2 votes

Grilled Chicken Legs

By
Erin Sellin

These grilled chicken legs are an absolute showstopper for any BBQ! An easy homemade spice rub gives them incredible flavor, and a brush of sticky, sweet, and savory Asian barbecue sauce takes them over the top. Perfect for a delicious, budget-friendly meal outdoors.

Prep:
10 minutes mins

Cook:
1 hour hr

Total:
1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings:
8

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Ingredients 

• ▢ 4 pound chicken drumsticks

Spice Rub

• ▢ 1/4 cup brown sugar
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons kosher salt
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons chili powder
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon celery salt
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon paprika
• ▢ 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ▢ 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Asian Barbecue Sauce

• ▢ 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• ▢ 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 1/3 cup honey
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons sriracha
• ▢ 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• ▢ 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons lime juice
• ▢ 2 Tablespoons orange juice
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Garnish

• ▢ Sesame Seeds
• ▢ Cilantro

Instructions 

• Pat dry the chicken drumsticks with a paper towel to make sure the spices stick well.
  
• Mix together all of the spices for the spice rub and add to a large plastic bag or bowl to toss with the chicken until everything is evenly coated. Let stand for 15 minutes before grilling.
  
• Preheat grill to medium high heat (about 375º F).
• Arrange chicken on the grill and cook for 30-35 minutes, flipping every 7-8 minutes until the chicken reaches 165º F.
  
• While the chicken is cooking prepare the sauce by sautéing the ginger and the garlic in the olive oil for 2-3 minutes until it is soft and fragrant.
• Mix in all of the remaining ingredients (except the red pepper flakes) and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until it starts to thicken. Once it is cooked, stir in the red pepper flakes to taste.
• After chicken is cooked and reaches 165ºF, reduce the heat to medium-low and generously brush with sauce. Let cook for 5-10 more minutes, flipping occasionally, for the sauce to caramelize and glaze the chicken, reaching an internal temperature of 170ºF.
• Remove from the grill and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your perfectly grilled Asian chicken legs!

Notes

If you have a favorite dry rub that is not overly smoky, you can absolutely use it in place of this spice mixture. The key is to choose a rub that will complement, rather than overpower, the vibrant and sticky Asian barbecue sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 550kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 57g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 16g | Cholesterol: 288mg | Sodium: 2631mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 19g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only. Individual results may vary.

Additional Info

Author:
Erin Sellin

Prep Time:
10 minutes minutes

Cook Time:
1 hour hour

Total Time:
1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Course:
Dinner Recipes

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
8

Calories:
550

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