The baking time for BBQ chicken legs can vary depending on the temperature, thickness of the chicken legs, and whether they are bone-in or boneless. As a general guideline, here's how long it may take to bake BBQ chicken legs:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier.
Brush the chicken legs with your favorite BBQ sauce, covering them evenly on all sides.
Bake the chicken legs in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 35 minutes.
After the initial baking time, take the chicken out of the oven and baste them with more BBQ sauce.
Return the chicken legs to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
If you prefer your chicken legs to have a crispy and charred exterior, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on them during broiling to prevent burning.
Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the size of the chicken legs and the accuracy of your oven's temperature. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
Additionally, if you're using a homemade BBQ sauce with high sugar content, keep an eye on the chicken during baking to prevent excessive charring or burning due to the sugars caramelizing. If needed, you can cover the chicken with foil to protect it while it finishes cooking.