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BBQ Chicken Legs

These sticky BBQ chicken legs are a fantastic high-protein option for anyone seeking a comforting yet nutritious dinner. By making your own sauce with simple larder staples like organic ketchup, dark brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar, you avoid the hidden additives often found in shop-bought versions. The result is a deeply savoury, slightly sweet glaze that caramelises beautifully in the oven, ensuring the meat stays succulent while the skin becomes irresistibly tacky.

Ideal for mid-week meals or a casual weekend gathering, this dish is best served alongside a crisp green salad or some grilled corn on the cob. The chicken benefits from a short marinating time, allowing the garlic and paprika to penetrate the meat for a fuller flavour profile. If you have extra sauce left over, it keeps well in the fridge and makes an excellent dip for roasted vegetables or lean grilled meats.

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Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Legs

  • 200g organic ketchup

  • 70g packed dark brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 900g chicken legs

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, stir together all the ingredients.

  2. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently, reduce heat to low and simmer 2–3 minutes, until sauce has thickened.

  3. Allow BBQ Sauce to cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to use.

  4. Preheat oven to 375F.

  5. Place the chicken legs in a large mixing bowl, sprinkle with the salt, and coat with 120ml the BBQ sauce, cover and marinate for 30 minutes in the fridge.

  6. Place the chicken legs on a baking rack over a foil lined baking sheet, baste with extra BBQ sauce, if desired, and roast for 45 minutes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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