Barbecue Chicken Legs in Oven
Make the best barbecue chicken legs in the oven with this easy recipe! Enjoy crispy skin, juicy meat, and a perfect glaze for the ultimate comfort meal.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 310kcal
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Wire Rack
- Small Mixing Bowls
- Meat Thermometer
- Pastry Brush for glazing
Ingredients
For the Chicken Legs:
- 2 to 3 pounds chicken legs drumsticks or whole legs, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Barbecue Glaze:
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Chili powder or cayenne pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish like parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning over the chicken legs, making sure to cover all sides.
- Bake the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken legs on the wire rack. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the barbecue glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and apple cider vinegar.
- Glaze the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven. Brush the glaze over each piece and return the chicken to the oven.
- Caramelize the glaze: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.