There’s nothing quite like the crackle of chicken skin sizzling away in a Traeger smoker, sending a mouthwatering aroma wafting through the backyard. I first discovered the joy of smoking chicken legs during a lazy summer weekend, craving something beyond the usual fare. Little did I know, this simple dish would elevate my BBQ game to a whole new level! These Traeger Smoked Chicken Legs combine that irresistible crispy skin with juicy, tender meat—a true crowd-pleaser for tailgating or backyard gatherings.

What’s even better? This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and adaptable, inviting you to customize the spice rub to your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just getting started, you’ll find that the smokiness from the Traeger adds a depth of flavor that transforms your outdoor meals. So grab your favorite wood pellets, and let’s create a dish that your friends and family will be talking about long after the last drumstick is devoured!

Why are Smoked Chicken Legs a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: The smokiness of a Traeger grill infuses chicken legs with an unmatched, savory depth that will have everyone’s taste buds dancing.

Crispy Perfection: Achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat that keeps you coming back for more.

Customizable Rub: This recipe encourages creativity through various spices—tailor it to suit any palate!

Crowd Favorite: Ideal for gatherings, these drumsticks are sure to impress friends and family, quickly disappearing from the plate.

Time-Saving: With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking approach, you can relax while they smoke to perfection.

You’ll want to serve these with some classic sides, like coleslaw or baked beans, for a complete BBQ experience!

Smoked Chicken Legs Ingredients

For the Spice Rub

Garlic Powder – Adds depth and savory flavor; substitute with onion powder or fresh garlic for a twist.
Onion Powder – Enhances seasoning with subtle sweetness; can be replaced by shallots for a different taste.
Chili Powder – Contributes warmth and a touch of heat; use smoked chili powder for an extra layer of smokiness.
Smoked Paprika – Gives a smoky, rich flavor that enhances the grilling method; regular paprika can be used for a milder taste.
Black Pepper – Adds sharpness and heat; adjust quantity based on your spice preference.
Kosher Salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors; sea salt is a good alternative.
Brown Sugar – Aids in caramelization for crispy skin; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier option.
Instant Coffee Granules – Deepens the flavor profile with subtle undertones; feel free to omit for a caffeine-free version.

For the Chicken

Bone-in Chicken Legs (with skin on) – The star of the show providing juicy meat, perfect for smoking; choose thighs for a different texture or flavor.

You’ll find that these smoked chicken legs create a spectacular BBQ experience full of flavor and enjoyment!

How to Make Smoked Chicken Legs

Mix the Spice Rub: In a jar, combine garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, brown sugar, and instant coffee granules. Shake until well blended—it will smell divine!
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the bone-in chicken legs dry with a paper towel to ensure crispy skin. Generously rub the spice mix on both sides, ensuring each leg is evenly coated.
Preheat the Smoker: Set your Traeger smoker to 275°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin while allowing the meat to become tender.
Smoke the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken legs on the smoker rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one leg to monitor the internal temperature.
Check for Doneness: Smoke the drumsticks until they reach an internal temperature of 175°F, which typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. The skin should look beautifully crispy and golden brown!
Rest the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken legs from the smoker. Let them rest uncovered for 30 minutes to maintain that delightful crispy skin—patience pays off!
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the smoked chicken legs as they are or with your favorite BBQ sauce for dipping. Watch them disappear in no time!

Optional: Serve with a side of homemade coleslaw for a classic BBQ pairing.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Smoked Chicken Legs

Choose Quality Chicken: Always opt for fresh, bone-in chicken legs with skin on for maximum flavor and moisture during smoking.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the spice rub! A good coating ensures each bite of smoked chicken legs bursts with flavor.
Patience is Key: Allow the chicken to rest after smoking. This step helps maintain that coveted crispy skin by preventing steam buildup.
Monitor Temperature: Invest in a reliable meat thermometer; this ensures your chicken legs reach the perfect internal temperature without guessing.
Experiment with Woods: Try different wood pellets, like hickory or apple, to customize the smokiness and complement the flavors of your smoked chicken legs.
Avoid Overcrowding: Place chicken legs on the smoker rack with space in between. This promotes even cooking and crispy skin on all sides.

Storage Tips for Smoked Chicken Legs

Fridge: Store leftover smoked chicken legs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining moisture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the chicken legs in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 6 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Reheat smoked chicken legs in the smoker or oven to preserve that crispy skin. Heat at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy the smoked chicken legs on their own, or add them to salads and wraps for a flavorful twist, ensuring that you savor every last bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Traeger Smoked Chicken Legs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the spice rub up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container to keep the flavors intact. The chicken legs can also be rubbed with the spice mix up to 24 hours before smoking—simply refrigerate them after applying the rub to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to cook, just follow the smoking instructions as usual. To maintain that crispy skin, make sure you let them rest uncovered after smoking. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, leaving you more time to enjoy your gathering!

What to Serve with Traeger Smoked Chicken Legs?

Enhance your unforgettable BBQ experience with perfect pairings that complement the flavors and textures of smoky chicken drumsticks.

Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy side adds freshness and a delightful contrast to the smoky richness of the chicken legs. It’s a classic pairing that balances the meal beautifully.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a hearty element that enhances the smoky flavor, making it a fulfilling side for any BBQ gathering.
Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread adds a comforting texture that soaks up juices from the chicken. It’s a Southern classic that warms the soul.
Grilled Vegetables: Charlie’s garden-fresh veggies, lightly seasoned and grilled, add vibrant colors, textures, and a bit of smokiness to your plate, complementing the meat perfectly.
Potato Salad: Creamy and cool, a potato salad brings a delightful creaminess that counterbalances the crispy skin of the chicken legs. It’s a BBQ staple beloved by many!
Pickles: Crunchy, tangy pickles add a pop of flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken, keeping every bite refreshing. They bring a burst of brightness to the meal.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Sip on refreshing lemonade or iced tea to cool off while enjoying your meal. Their sweetness counteracts the savory elements, creating a satisfying balance.
Peach Cobbler: Finish off your feast with a warm slice of peach cobbler. The sweetness and warmth are a delightful conclusion to the smoky, savory meal you’ve enjoyed.

Smoked Chicken Legs Variations

There’s always room for creativity when it comes to making these delicious chicken legs even more exciting!

Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to your spice mix for an aromatic lift. Fresh herbs can also be used for a lovely burst of flavor.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix in a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the rub for an extra kick. This creates a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice over the chicken legs before applying the rub. This adds a vibrant brightness that beautifully complements the smokiness.
BBQ Glaze: Brush your favorite barbecue sauce onto the chicken legs during the last 15 minutes of smoking. The sauce caramelizes, creating a sticky, finger-licking finish.
Chipotle Kick: Swap instant coffee with chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy twist. This gives the chicken a deeper flavor profile that BBQ lovers will adore.
Vegan Option: Use firm tofu marinated in the spice rub and smoked for a plant-based alternative that still delivers that irresistible smoky flavor.
Asian Twist: Substitute garlic and onion powders with five-spice powder for an East Asian flair. This will evoke a whole new taste experience, perfect for adventurous eaters!
Stuffing Variation: Try stuffing chicken legs with cream cheese and jalapeños for a cheesy, spicy surprise in every bite. Just make a small incision and pack it right before rubbing the seasoning.

Embrace these variations to create a personalized dish that will become the talk of your gatherings!

Smoked Chicken Legs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken legs for smoking?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, bone-in chicken legs with skin on. This combination ensures maximum moisture and flavor during the smoking process. When choosing, avoid any that have dark spots or a slimy texture—these can indicate spoilage. Opting for high-quality poultry will guarantee the best results!

What’s the best way to store leftover smoked chicken legs?
You can store leftover smoked chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them in freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay good for up to 6 months!

How can I reheat smoked chicken legs while maintaining their crispiness?
To reheat and preserve that coveted crispy skin, place the chicken legs in the smoker or oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat them for about 20-30 minutes, just until warmed through. If needed, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

What can I do if my smoked chicken legs don’t have crispy skin?
Very! If the skin isn’t crispy after smoking, don’t worry! You can finish them off by broiling in your oven at 500°F for a few minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. This technique will help achieve that delightful crunch we all love!

Can I modify the spice rub for dietary restrictions?
Sure thing! Feel free to customize the spice rub to accommodate your dietary needs or preferences. For instance, if you’re avoiding sugar, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or omit it altogether. Allergies can be managed by simply skipping any specific ingredients or using alternatives, like using smoked paprika instead of chili powder for milder seasoning.

Can I use other meats with this recipe?
Absolutely! This spice rub is incredibly versatile. You can use it on chicken thighs or even pork cuts like smoked chuck roast. Each meat can be seasoned the same way, allowing you to enjoy similar smoky flavors while exploring different textures and tastes in your BBQ endeavors. Enjoy the journey!