Smoked Chicken Legs

As a mom of 8 kids, I enjoy making chicken drumsticks for a kid friendly meal idea. We have enjoyed making Grilled Chicken Drumsticks, Grilled BBQ Chicken Drumsticks and Blackstone BBQ Drumsticks Recipe for an easy weeknight dinner.

But these smoked chicken recipes have become a family favorite because of how moist they turn out. Make this smoker recipe, Smoked Pulled Chicken or Smoked Pulled Pork Recipe for a crowd or just to enjoy with your favorite side dish recipes.

Why We Love This Recipe

Smoked chicken legs is a delicious smoke flavor recipe with the best crispy chicken skin and juicy center. We love that this recipe is so simple and made with easy seasoning.

You can easily make this with a variety of seasoning for a delicious variation. This smoked chicken drumsticks recipe is perfect for a crowd because you can smoke so many at once.

If you are new to using your smoker, start with this recipe. See more Smoker Recipes for Beginners to impress your family this summer.

Ingredients

• Chicken Drumsticks – Make this recipe with chicken thighs or chicken wings.
• BBQ Sauce – Try making Homemade BBQ Sauce or use your favorite BBQ Sauce

Scroll to the bottom for the full recipe and ingredients in the recipe card.

Variations Ideas

Change the seasoning to what you prefer. Here are some delicious options:

• Cayenne Pepper – Start with ¼ teaspoon adds a hint of spice
• Brown Sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the seasoning blend.
• Paprika – Add in ¼ teaspoon for a smoky flavor.

How to Make Smoked Chicken Legs

• Step 1 – Preheat the smoker to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Step 2 – Mix the seasonings together in a small bowl.

Step 3 – Place the drumsticks in a large bowl, pour the oil on top and sprinkle the dry rub over the drumsticks. Toss and pat to make sure that the drumsticks are thoroughly coated in the olive and the seasoning mixture.

Step 4 – Place the chicken legs in the smoker rack and close the lid.  Cook for 1 ½ – 2 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken from the smoker.

Step 5 – Brush the chicken with the barbecue sauce.  Tint with foil and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. Then the chicken legs are ready to serve and enjoy! 

Expert Tips

• Cooking Chicken – Use an instant-read meat thermometer to make sure  that the chicken is cooked to the current temperature.  
• Prepare Smoker – Before placing the chicken drumsticks on the grill grates, make sure the smoker has preheated to 225 degrees. This helps to get the wood chips smoking for the best flavor.
• Rest Chicken – To ensure the juiciest chicken, allow the chicken for about 5 minutes before serving.

What to Serve with Smoked Chicken Legs

Smoked chicken legs can be served with many different side dish recipes. Smoked Green Beans, Smoked Scalloped Potatoes, Smoked Corn on the Cob and Smoked Baked Potatoes are always on the menu.

Making everything in the smoker makes cleanup a breeze and the entire meal is full of smoky flavor.

Storing and Reheat Instructions

• Storing – Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing – Place the cooked chicken legs in a freezer safe container or zip lock bag and place in the freezer. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months.
• Reheating – When ready to serve, reheat the leftover chicken legs in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes.