Treat your taste buds to the rich, smoky charm of perfectly seasoned Smoked Chicken Legs! This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with the deep flavors of smoked paprika, garlic, onion powder, and a touch of brown sugar for a delectable balance of savory and sweet. Slow-smoked over hickory or apple wood chips, the chicken absorbs a tantalizing aroma and smoky essence that will elevate your barbecue game. Brushed with apple cider vinegar during the final stages of cooking, these chicken legs achieve a succulent finish that pairs wonderfully with your favorite side dishes. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or searching for a perfect weekend dinner recipe, these smoked chicken legs promise bold flavors and a crowd-pleasing experience. Easy to prepare and packed with robust flavor, this smoked chicken recipe is the ultimate winner for smoky meat lovers!
Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C). Prepare the wood chips by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes.
In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar to create a marinade.
Rub the marinade all over the chicken legs, making sure they are evenly coated.
Allow the chicken legs to marinate at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
Place the soaked wood chips in the smoker box or directly onto the charcoal if you're using a charcoal smoker.
Arrange the chicken legs in the smoker, skin side up, ensuring they are not touching to allow even smoke circulation.
Smoke the chicken legs at 250°F (120°C) for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the chicken legs with apple cider vinegar to enhance the smoky flavor.
Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the smoker and let them rest for about 10 minutes to let juices redistribute before serving.
Serve the smoked chicken legs hot with your favorite side dishes.
Calories |
1194 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 81.3 g | 104% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.2 g | 96% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 454 mg | 151% | |
| Sodium | 2819 mg | 123% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 26.4 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 18.4 g | ||
| Protein | 85.5 g | 171% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 94 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 6.9 mg | 38% | |
| Potassium | 1157 mg | 25% | |
*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.