Name: Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken legs (skin on); ½ cup BBQ sauce; ¼ cup grape jelly; 2 cloves garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

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There’s something immensely satisfying about biting into juicy, tender Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs. Growing up, these were a staple at family gatherings and barbecues, where the aroma of BBQ sauce wafted through the air, mingling with laughter and chatter. I remember one summer evening when my uncle took charge of the grill, and we all eagerly awaited his secret recipe. The anticipation was palpable, and when those chicken legs finally came off the grill, we knew we were in for a treat. This recipe brings that experience into the comfort of your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
380 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Small mixing bowl, Small whisk, Basting brush, Baking Sheet, Aluminum foil, Ziplock bags, Meat thermometer, Nonstick spray

What Sets This Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs Apart

Easy and Convenient

One of the main reasons I love these Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs is how effortless they are to prepare. There’s no need for complicated techniques or fancy gadgets; just simple ingredients and straightforward steps. You can marinate the chicken legs in advance, making it perfect for busy days when you need a quick dinner option.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of BBQ sauce and grape jelly creates a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy. This unexpected twist is what truly makes these chicken legs stand out from your typical BBQ fare. The sauce infuses the meat with a deliciously sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a family gathering, or just enjoying a cozy weeknight dinner, these Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs fit the bill. They’re versatile enough to complement any side dish, from classic coleslaw to creamy macaroni and cheese.

Healthier Alternative

Baking instead of frying is a game changer. You get all the crispy goodness without the extra oil, making this dish a healthier option. Plus, by using skin-on chicken legs, you still retain some of that juicy flavor while reducing fat content compared to other cuts of meat.

Kid-Friendly

If you have picky eaters at home, these chicken legs are a surefire hit. The sweet glaze appeals to children, and the chicken is tender and easy to eat. It’s a dish that brings families together around the dinner table.

Great for Leftovers

Leftover BBQ chicken legs can be a delight! Use them in wraps, salads, or even pasta dishes the next day. There’s something wonderful about a dish that keeps on giving, and these legs do just that.

Shopping List for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs. Each component plays a vital role in creating that deliciously sticky, tangy glaze. From the chicken to the BBQ sauce, these ingredients meld together beautifully, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.

2 pounds of chicken legs (skin on) – The star of the show, these legs are juicy and full of flavor, especially when baked to perfection.
½ cup of BBQ sauce – This will be the base of your sauce, adding that characteristic sweet and smoky flavor.
¼ cup of grape jelly – This unique addition brings sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize during baking.
2 cloves of garlic, minced – Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
½ teaspoon of ground black pepper – A touch of spice to balance the sweetness.

Cooking Method for Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

Cooking these Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs is a straightforward process that yields amazing results. Follow the steps carefully to ensure your chicken is flavorful and perfectly cooked. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone excited for dinner!

In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, grape jelly, garlic, and black pepper. This will be your marinade, so make sure it’s well combined. The sweetness from the jelly will balance the tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce, creating a delicious glaze.
Next, place the chicken legs in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. Remove as much air as possible from the bag and seal it tightly. It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.
Store the remaining marinade in an airtight container in the fridge; you’ll use it later to baste the chicken.
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. A hot oven will help the chicken legs bake evenly and achieve a nice, crispy texture.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick spray. This will prevent the chicken from sticking and make for an easier clean-up later.
Place the marinated chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spread out and not touching each other, allowing them to cook evenly.
Baste the chicken legs with the reserved BBQ marinade. This will enhance the flavor and create a richer glaze as they bake.
Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You should look for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 185 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to ensure your chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
Once fully cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken even more tender and flavorful.
Serve your Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs hot, and enjoy the delicious balance of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Pay attention to the marinating time; the longer you marinate, the more flavor the chicken will absorb.
For an even more caramelized exterior, broil the chicken for a couple of minutes at the end of baking.
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness.
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor combination.

Expert Tips about Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

As you prepare to make your Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs, here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:

Storage: Store leftover baked BBQ chicken drumsticks in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They make a great quick meal or snack!
Freezing: You can freeze leftovers for another time. Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight. To reheat, bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.
Pairing: Consider serving your chicken legs with classic sides such as coleslaw or corn on the cob for a delightful meal.
Variations: Try adding different spices to the marinade for a unique twist. Smoked paprika or cayenne can add a nice kick.
Grilling Option: If you prefer, these chicken legs can also be grilled for a smoky flavor. Just follow the marination steps and grill until cooked through.

How to Serve Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs

Serving your Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs can be an exciting experience, with plenty of options to elevate your dish:

Classic Sides: Pair these chicken legs with traditional sides like corn on the cob, potato salad, or baked beans for a true BBQ feast.
Fresh Salads: A refreshing side salad can balance the richness of the BBQ sauce. Consider a simple garden salad or a tangy coleslaw.
Ideal for Gatherings: These chicken legs are perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or game day parties. They can be made in large batches and are easy to share.
Meal Prep: If you’re meal prepping, these legs store well and can be eaten throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy!
Seasonal Bites: During the summer, these chicken legs shine at cookouts, while in the winter, they can be a comforting dinner option.

FAQ

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs for this recipe! Thighs tend to be more tender and flavorful, and they will work well with the BBQ marinade. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the desired internal temperature.

To achieve crispy skin on your chicken legs, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps maintain moisture while giving the skin a chance to crisp up.

These Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob. You can also add a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. They’re versatile enough to fit into any meal occasion!

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken legs a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld. Just store them in the refrigerator in the marinade. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the baking instructions!

Conclusion

The Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Legs are not just delicious; they are a celebration of flavors and memories. This recipe brings a taste of home and comfort to your table, ensuring everyone will want more. So why not gather your loved ones and try this recipe tonight? You’ll love how easy it is to make!