This mouthwatering low and slow BBQ chicken recipe combines succulent bone-in leg quarters with a flavorful dry rub and tangy BBQ sauce. Slowly grilled to perfection, this dish delivers tender, juicy chicken with a smoky and sweet flavor that will satisfy your BBQ cravings.
Course Poultry
Prep Time 15 minutesminutes
Cook Time 3 hourshours30 minutesminutes
Author N. Jay Sorensen, MBA RDN
Ingredients
4bone-in chicken leg quarters
1cupBBQ saucechoose your favorite flavor
2tablespoonsbrown sugar
2tablespoonspaprika
1tablespoongarlic powder
1tablespoononion powder
1tablespoonsalt
1tablespoonblack pepper
1teaspooncayenne pepperadjust according to your spice preference
Instructions
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.
Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels, then generously apply the dry rub on all sides of the chicken.
Place the chicken on the grill or smoker, skin side up. Close the lid and let it cook low and slow for about 2 hours.
After 2 hours, baste the chicken with BBQ sauce, making sure to cover all sides. Close the lid and continue cooking for another 1-2 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the meat is tender.
Occasionally check the chicken and baste with more BBQ sauce if desired.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill or smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve the low and slow BBQ chicken with extra BBQ sauce on the side, and enjoy!
Notes
Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken pieces and the temperature of your grill or smoker. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.