As a culinary expert with years of experience in the food industry, I've had the pleasure of grilling a wide variety of meats, including chicken legs. Grilling chicken legs on a charcoal grill is an art that requires attention to detail, timing, and a bit of patience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to achieve perfectly grilled chicken legs.

Preparation:
Before you start grilling, it's essential to prepare your chicken legs properly. Clean them thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which can prevent them from searing properly. Seasoning is crucial; you can use a simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or you can opt for a more complex marinade for added flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or even overnight for the best results.

Grill Setup:
Set up your charcoal grill for indirect heat. This means arranging the charcoal on one side of the grill and placing the chicken on the other side, away from the direct heat. This method helps to cook the chicken legs evenly without burning the exterior.

Grill Temperature:
The ideal temperature for grilling chicken legs is between 350°F to 400°F (175°C to 205°C). Using a grill thermometer can help you monitor and maintain this temperature range. If you don't have a thermometer, you can gauge the temperature by holding your hand about 5 inches above the grill grates; you should be able to count to about 5 before feeling the need to pull your hand away.

Grilling Process:
Once your grill is preheated and your chicken legs are ready, it's time to start grilling. Place the chicken legs on the cooler side of the grill, skin-side down if you're aiming for a crispy skin. Close the lid to help maintain the heat and to cook the chicken legs more evenly.

Turning and Monitoring:
Chicken legs should be turned every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. Use a pair of tongs to flip the chicken legs carefully, avoiding piercing the meat which can cause the juices to escape.

Internal Temperature:
The key to perfectly grilled chicken legs is achieving an internal temperature of 185-190 degrees Fahrenheit (85-88 degrees Celsius). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken leg, avoiding the bone.

Rest Time:
After removing the chicken legs from the grill, it's important to let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.

Serving:
Once the chicken legs have rested, they're ready to be served. You can serve them with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices.

Remember, grilling is as much about the experience as it is about the end result. Enjoy the process, and don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your perfect grilled chicken leg recipe.

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Check grill temp if possible and place chicken on the grill. Flip every 5-7 minutes until internal temp of 185-190 degrees. About 30-35 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.Jun 26, 2011read more >>