If you’re looking for a mouthwatering chicken recipe that’s packed with flavor, Traeger chicken legs are the way to go. These succulent chicken legs are cooked over wood fire on a Traeger grill, which gives them an irresistible smoky taste and tender texture.
With this recipe, you’ll learn how to cook juicy and flavorful chicken legs using your Traeger grill. From prepping the meat to seasoning it with spices and herbs, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to enjoy a delicious meal with your family, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
How to make smoked chicken legs on Traeger grill
To start, preheat your smoker to 250°F. While the smoker is heating up, prepare your chicken legs by seasoning them with your preferred rub or marinade. Once the smoker is ready, place the chicken legs on the grates and let them smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
It’s important to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process to ensure the chicken cooks evenly. You can also add some wood chips to the smoker for additional flavor. Once the chicken is fully cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
How long to smoke chicken legs
The general rule of thumb for smoking chicken legs is to smoke them for 2-3 hours at a temperature of 225-250°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the actual smoking time may vary based on several factors such as the size of the chicken legs, the type of smoker being used, and the outdoor temperature.
To ensure that the chicken legs are cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature before removing them from the smoker. Additionally, it’s important to let the chicken legs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
How do I get chicken skin to crisp
If you’re wondering how to get your smoked chicken skin crispy on the Traeger, there are a few key steps you can follow to achieve that perfect texture. First, make sure your chicken is completely dry before smoking it. This will help the skin to crisp up during the cooking process.
Next, try using a higher temperature for the last part of the cooking process (last 15 minutes), around 350-375°F, to help render the fat and crisp up the skin. You can also try using a dry rub that contains sugar or honey, which will help to caramelize the skin and create a crunchy, flavorful crust.
What to serve
When it comes to serving smoked chicken legs, there are many options to choose from. One popular and delicious choice is to serve them with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and onions.
Another great option is to pair the chicken with a fresh salad, topped with your favorite vegetables and a light vinaigrette dressing. For those who prefer a heartier meal, consider serving the smoked chicken with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a bowl of warm soup.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a homemade BBQ sauce to accompany the chicken legs, or serve them with a side of tangy coleslaw.
What to do with leftovers
There are plenty of delicious ways to repurpose smoked chicken legs. One option is to shred the meat and use it in a salad or sandwich. Another idea is to chop up the chicken and add it to a soup or stew for extra flavor.
You could also make a chicken quesadilla or add the meat to a stir-fry for a quick and easy meal. If you’re feeling creative, try making chicken tacos or enchiladas with the leftover meat.
And don’t forget about the bones! Use them to make a flavorful chicken stock that can be used in a variety of recipes. With a little bit of creativity and some simple ingredients, you can turn your leftover smoked chicken legs into a delicious meal.
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Traeger Chicken Legs
Learn how to make the most succulent Traeger chicken legs with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend cookout!
Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken legs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Rub
- 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Paprika
- 2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
In a bowl, combine rub ingredients and mix well.
Generously season the chicken legs with the rub mixture.
Place the chicken legs in the smoker and let it smoke for 2 to 3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Once cooked, brush chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Recipe Notes
*If you want the chicken skin to come out crispy, raise the temperature to around 350°F on the last 15 minutes of cooking.