Barbecued Chicken Legs And Thighs
Juicy, flavorful barbecued chicken legs and thighs coated in a sweet and tangy ketchup-based sauce, perfect for casual gatherings and family dinners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken legs and thighs in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Combine catsup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, orange juice, onion flakes, and mustard to make the sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken in the baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, turning the chicken once during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours or overnight before baking. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar mixed with a little molasses. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or chili powder to the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with side dishes like coleslaw or cornbread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued chicken legs and thighs with a fresh green salad or baked beans for a complete meal. This dish is great for summer cookouts and pairs well with sweet corn on the cob. For a casual gathering, serve with a side of potato salad or coleslaw. Don't forget to have extra sauce on the side for dipping!
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual pieces for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Chicken Legs And Thighs contains roughly 781 calories, with 9g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 925mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken if you prefer. The skin will add extra flavor and help keep the meat moist during cooking. Just be aware that the skin may become crispy, which some people enjoy.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing soy sauce with a little vinegar, sugar, and garlic powder. This will provide a similar depth of flavor to your sauce.
Can I cook this recipe on a grill?
Absolutely! You can grill the chicken instead of baking it. Preheat your grill to medium heat, and cook the chicken for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).