Smoked Chicken Legs
These smoked chicken legs are the ultimate BBQ crowd-pleaser! With crispy skin, fall-apart meat, and rich smoky flavor, they’re easy to prep, perfectly seasoned, and ideal for beginners or pitmasters alike. Whether you’re smoking the full leg or just smoked chicken drumsticks, this recipe delivers unbeatable results every time.Try it now and become the backyard BBQ hero!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins
Total Time 2 hours hrs
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, BBQ
Servings 4
Calories 360 kcal
- 4 whole chicken legs thigh + drumstick
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Wood chips or pellets apple, cherry, or hickory
Prep the Chicken: Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels. Trim excess skin or fat.
Season: Mix all dry rub ingredients and coat chicken legs evenly. Let rest for 30 minutes.
Preheat Smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F–250°F. Add wood chips or pellets.
Smoke: Place chicken legs on the smoker grates. Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temp reaches 175°F.
Rest: Remove chicken from smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve: Enjoy with your favorite BBQ sides or salads!
Nutrient |
Amount |
Calories |
360 kcal |
Protein |
31g |
Fat |
24g |
Carbohydrates |
3g |
Fiber |
0g |
Sugars |
2g |
Sodium |
510mg |
Cholesterol |
120mg |
Keyword smoked chicken drumsticks, smoked chicken legs