Baked chicken legs – These baked chicken legs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, serving them with a side of roasted veggies or a creamy mashed potato.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
- Minimal Prep: This recipe comes together in minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Skin: With the right baking technique, the chicken skin becomes deliciously crispy.
- Juicy Interior: Baking at the right temperature ensures tender, moist meat every time.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Baked Chicken Legs
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully during baking.
- Use a Wire Rack: Place the chicken on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to ensure even air circulation and prevent sogginess.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning. A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika works wonders, but feel free to add your favorite spices.
- Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before baking for consistent results.
- Check Internal Temperature: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Arrange the chicken legs with space in between to allow the heat to circulate evenly.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning blend for extra heat.
- Herby and Fresh: Incorporate dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an earthy flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Toss the chicken legs with soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger before baking.
- BBQ Flavor: Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce halfway through baking for a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- Lemon and Garlic: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and minced garlic for a bright and zesty twist.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs
Baked chicken legs are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, garlic green beans, or a simple garden salad.
- Carbs: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice pilaf, or buttery dinner rolls.
- Sauces: Add a side of ranch dressing, honey mustard, or tzatziki for dipping.
- Summer BBQ: Complement with coleslaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Legs
Storing:
- Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals to prevent the chicken from drying out.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of whole legs?
Absolutely! This recipe works just as well with chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just ensure they reach the correct internal temperature for safe eating.
2. Should I marinate the chicken legs before baking?
Marinating isn’t necessary, but it can enhance flavor. A quick 30-minute marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite seasonings can elevate the dish.
3. How do I make the skin extra crispy?
For ultra-crispy skin, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
4. Can I bake chicken legs from frozen?
Yes, but it will take longer to cook. Add an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time, and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. What’s the best way to season baked chicken legs?
A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika is a foolproof option. You can also experiment with spice blends like Cajun, Italian, or taco seasoning.
Baked Chicken Legs
Baked chicken legs - These baked chicken legs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, serving them with a side of roasted veggies or a creamy mashed potato.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 8 drumsticks (about 2 lb)
- Olive Oil: 2 Tbsp for that golden finish.
- Seasonings:
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Heat to 425°F and prep a baking sheet with foil and non-stick spray.
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry and place them in a bowl or resealable bag. Toss with olive oil.
- Season to Perfection: Mix the seasonings in a small bowl. Sprinkle over the chicken and toss until every drumstick is fully coated.
- Bake: Arrange the drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they're not touching. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until they reach an internal temp of 165°F.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 348Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 231mgSodium 797mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 44g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
With its crispy skin, juicy interior, and endless seasoning possibilities, baked chicken legs are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner or preparing a meal for the week, this versatile dish delivers every time.
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