Go Back
–+ servings
Smoked Chicken Legs

Irresistibly Juicy Smoked Chicken Legs with Flavorful Spice

Enjoy irresistibly juicy smoked chicken legs packed with flavor, perfect for any gathering.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 legs
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 8 pieces Chicken Drumsticks Choose skin-on for crispy finish
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can swap with canola oil
For the Spice Rub
  • 2 tablespoons Smoked Paprika Substitute with regular paprika and liquid smoke if needed
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic works beautifully too
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion is an option, adjust cooking times accordingly
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Sea salt or kosher salt recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust based on spice preferences

Equipment

  • Smoker
  • meat thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C) until a steady stream of smoke is produced.
  2. Pat the chicken drumsticks dry, drizzle with olive oil, and rub the spice mix onto each piece.
  3. Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in the smoker and smoke for 90-120 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (79°C).
  4. Optionally, brush BBQ sauce onto the chicken around the 165°F mark and cook until they reach 175°F.
  5. Remove chicken from smoker and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1drumstickCalories: 250kcalProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgIron: 5mg

Notes

For extra moisture, consider brining the chicken legs before smoking. Customize the rub with your favorite spices.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!