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Dr Pepper Chipotle Grilled Chicken

A flavor-packed recipe that combines the sweetness of Dr Pepper with the smoky heat of chipotle peppers for juicy, grilled chicken legs.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
  • 12 pieces chicken legs (thigh and drumstick combo for the best flavor) Ensure chicken legs are at room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil Can substitute with olive oil for additional flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can work too!
  • to taste salt and pepper Always use fresh ground for optimal flavor.
Sauce Ingredients
  • 1 cup ketchup Opt for organic for an even richer taste.
  • 1/3 cup Dijon mustard The tangier, the better!
  • 1/2 cup Dr Pepper Classic preferred, but Diet can be used for lower calories.
  • 1/4 cup cider vinegar Adds a nice acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce It rounds out the flavor beautifully.
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup Pure maple syrup is best for depth of flavor.
  • 1–2 pieces chipotle peppers, chopped Choose your spice level!
  • 2 teaspoons adobo sauce Use less if sensitive to heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your grill to high, direct heat (about 450°F).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together a cup of ketchup, 1/3 cup of Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup of Dr Pepper, 1/4 cup of cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 cup of maple syrup, the chopped chipotle, and 2 teaspoons of adobo sauce. Set aside.
  3. Brush or spray the chicken legs with vegetable oil. Generously season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Place chicken legs skin-side down over high heat. Grill for about 15 minutes to sear and develop grill marks.
  2. After 15 minutes, lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the grill and cook undisturbed for 15 minutes.
  3. Carefully turn the chicken, baste generously with sauce, cover again, and grill for an additional 10 minutes.
  4. For the final step, flip the chicken again, baste once more, and cook for 5 additional minutes.
  5. Check for doneness; internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Serving
  1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside extra sauce for dipping.

Notes

This chicken keeps well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Try variations with different sauces or spices based on preference.