Mediterranean Diet Smoked Chicken Leg
Experience the bold, smoky flavors of the Mediterranean Diet Smoked Chicken Leg, a recipe that perfectly marries wholesome ingredients with fragrant spices. Tender chicken legs are bathed in a zesty marinade of extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, and sea salt—ensuring every bite is bursting with Mediterranean flair. Slow-smoked using hickory or applewood chips, these juicy chicken legs are infused with a rich, savory aroma that elevates their deliciously smoky taste. Topped with fresh parsley and accompanied by vibrant lemon slices, this recipe is a feast for both the senses and the soul. Ideal for a hearty dinner or special occasion, serve these Mediterranean-inspired chicken legs with crisp salads or roasted vegetables for a healthy, flavorful meal that's sure to impress. Keywords: Mediterranean diet, smoked chicken leg, healthy chicken recipe, Mediterranean-inspired, grilling recipes, smoker chicken recipes.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken legs
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 units garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 units lemons, sliced
- 2 cups wood chips (such as hickory or applewood)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, ground black pepper, and sea salt.
Place the chicken legs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken legs, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat your smoker to approximately 225°F (107°C).
Once the wood chips are soaked, drain and place them in the smoker box or directly on the coals of your smoker.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place the legs on the smoker’s grill grates. Discard any remaining marinade.
Arrange the lemon slices over the chicken legs to infuse additional flavor while smoking.
Smoke the chicken legs for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is tender and juicy.
During the last 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for an aromatic finish.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the smoked chicken legs with additional lemon wedges and a side of your favorite Mediterranean salad or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1254 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 95.4 g | 122% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.8 g | 104% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 454 mg | 151% | |
| Sodium | 2780 mg | 121% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 17.1 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.1 g | 18% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.9 g | ||
| Protein | 86.6 g | 173% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 140 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 8.0 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 1276 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
