Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs on the Grill

Garlic Parmesan chicken legs on the grill are a savory, juicy, and flavor-packed twist on classic grilled drumsticks. Coated in a garlic butter mixture and finished with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan, these chicken legs develop a crispy, golden exterior while staying tender and moist inside—making them perfect for cookouts, family dinners, or game day gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, flavorful chicken with a garlicky, cheesy crust
• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients
• Crispy skin from the grill, no deep frying needed
• Great for feeding a crowd or as a meal prep protein
• Delicious served alone or with your favorite sides and dips

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken legs (drumsticks)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Onion powder (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Butter (for finishing sauce)
• Optional: red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for extra flavor

directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
3. Pat chicken legs dry and toss with the garlic mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place chicken legs on the grill over indirect heat and close the lid. Cook for 25–30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 175°F and the skin is crispy.
5. In a small saucepan, melt butter and stir in additional garlic and Parmesan cheese.
6. Brush the grilled chicken legs with the garlic-Parmesan butter mixture during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from grill and sprinkle with more Parmesan and chopped parsley. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4–6 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the garlic butter
• Lemon-garlic: Add lemon juice and zest for brightness
• Herb-crusted: Mix in fresh or dried Italian herbs for an extra layer of flavor
• Breaded version: Roll in breadcrumbs before grilling for added crunch
• Wing-style: Toss cooked chicken in extra garlic-Parmesan butter like you would with wings

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or on the grill over low heat until warmed through.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skin soggy. You can also freeze cooked chicken legs for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What temperature should chicken legs be cooked to?

They should reach an internal temperature of 175°F for tender, juicy meat.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, this recipe also works great with thighs or wings. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I get the skin crispy on the grill?

Use indirect heat first, then move to direct heat for the last few minutes to crisp the skin.

Can I make these in the oven?

Yes. Bake at 400°F for 35–40 minutes, then broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.

What’s the best Parmesan to use?

Use finely grated Parmesan (not shredded) so it melts and sticks to the chicken better.

Can I marinate the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, marinate in the garlic mixture for up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.

Do I need to flip the chicken while grilling?

Yes, flipping every 8–10 minutes ensures even cooking and browning.

Can I grill these on a charcoal grill?

Absolutely. Cook over indirect heat and finish over direct coals for a smoky flavor.

What should I serve with garlic Parmesan chicken legs?

Serve with grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, garlic bread, pasta salad, or corn on the cob.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The mild garlic-Parmesan flavor is generally a big hit with kids and adults alike.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan chicken legs on the grill are a simple, flavorful way to upgrade your usual drumsticks. With crispy skin, rich garlic butter, and a cheesy finish, they’re sure to be a standout at your next BBQ or weeknight dinner. Fire up the grill and give these a try—you won’t regret it.

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