How Long to BBQ Chicken Maryland? Time, Temp & Tips

By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

Quick Answer

BBQ Chicken Maryland for Indirect: 25-35 min, then direct sear 3-4 min/side at Indirect: 180-200°C (350-400°F), Sear: 220°C (425°F). Internal temp: 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part. Rest for 5-10 minutes.

Chicken Maryland BBQ Overview

Chicken maryland (leg quarter — thigh and drumstick connected) is the most flavourful chicken cut for BBQ. The dark meat stays moist, and the skin crisps beautifully. Cook skin-side up over indirect heat first to cook through, then flip onto direct heat skin-side down for a crispy finish. The bone means it takes longer than boneless.

Cook Time

Indirect: 25-35 min, then direct sear 3-4 min/side

Temperature

Indirect: 180-200°C (350-400°F), Sear: 220°C (425°F)

Internal Temp

74°C (165°F) in the thickest part

Rest Time

5-10 minutes

Thickness

Whole leg quarter (thigh + drumstick)

How to BBQ Chicken Maryland — Step by Step

Prep: Bring to room temperature 20-30 minutes before cooking. Season or marinate as desired.
Preheat: Get your BBQ to Indirect: 180-200°C (350-400°F), Sear: 220°C (425°F). Clean and oil the grate.
Cook: Grill for Indirect: 25-35 min, then direct sear 3-4 min/side. Use a meat thermometer — target 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part.
Rest: Rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Only using direct heat — the outside burns before the inside cooks at the bone
Not finishing skin-side down — you miss the crispy skin
Pulling at 70°C — dark meat tastes better at 74-76°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you BBQ chicken maryland?

BBQ chicken maryland for Indirect: 25-35 min, then direct sear 3-4 min/side at Indirect: 180-200°C (350-400°F), Sear: 220°C (425°F). Internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part.

What temperature should chicken maryland be when cooked?

The internal temperature for chicken maryland should reach 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part. Use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.

How long should chicken maryland rest after BBQ?

Rest chicken maryland for 5-10 minutes after removing from the BBQ. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier result.

Related BBQ Guides

All Cooking Times Internal Temperature Chart

Sources & References

Guga Foods (YouTube)

Creative chicken grilling experiments and flavour tests.

Video

Weber Grill Skills

Step-by-step poultry grilling guides from Weber Australia.

Manufacturer

Food Standards Australia New Zealand

Official safe minimum cooking temperatures for poultry in Australia.

Government

America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)

Rigorously tested cooking methods for perfectly cooked poultry.