Baked Chicken Legs Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to easy weeknight dinners, this baked chicken legs recipe is a game changer. Not only is it super simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor that will have everyone at the table singing your praises. A dish like this goes beyond just satisfying hunger; it brings warmth and comfort to your home. Whether you’re hosting friends for a casual get-together or just treating your family to a delicious meal, the crispy texture and aromatic spices make these chicken legs a must-try.

“These chicken legs were a hit! Easy to make, and the flavor was incredible. I love how crispy they turned out!” – A happy home cook.

How to Make Baked Chicken Legs Recipe

Crafting these flavorful baked chicken legs is a breeze! The entire process involves simple ingredients and a few easy steps. You’ll coat the chicken with a delightful blend of spices and olive oil, bake them to perfection, and enjoy that unbeatable crispy skin. Here’s what you need to whip up this family-friendly dish:

Ingredients

Gather these items to get started:

• 8 skin-on chicken drumsticks (approx. 2 pounds total weight)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp sea salt (cut back to 1 tsp if you’re not a fan of salt)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1 Tbsp onion powder
• 1 Tbsp smoked or sweet paprika
• 1 Tbsp dry mustard (optional)

For extra convenience, olive oil can be swapped with melted butter, and if you want to keep the dish lighter, consider using skinless chicken legs.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
3. Using a fork, blend the spices until evenly mixed.
4. Pour the olive oil into the spice mix and stir well to create a seasoning oil.
5. Allow the chicken legs to come to room temperature for better cooking.
6. Coat each chicken drumstick with the seasoning oil mixture, ensuring every inch is covered.
7. Place the seasoned chicken legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s space between them for even cooking.
8. Bake for 30 minutes on the middle rack of your oven.
9. After 30 minutes, brush the chicken legs with any oil on the tray and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the chicken is crispy (check doneness with an instant-read thermometer — it should read at least 165 degrees).

Serving Suggestions

Baked chicken legs can be the star of your meal or a delightful addition to any dinner spread. Pair them with a fresh salad, some roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. You can also serve them as a finger food option for game day or summer barbecues. Don’t forget a zesty dipping sauce like ranch, buffalo sauce, or a homemade garlic aioli to complete the experience!

Storage & Reheating

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them is easy! Keep the chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll last up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, ensure they’re cooled completely before wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. For reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 375 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy.

Pro Tips

• For extra crunch, broil the chicken legs for the last couple of minutes of cooking.
• Marinate your chicken legs in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight for an even deeper flavor.
• Feel free to tweak the spice quantities according to your taste; add a pinch of cayenne for heat or brown sugar for sweetness!

Variations

Looking to mix things up? Try adding different herbs or spices like Italian seasoning or rosemary for a fresh twist. You can also swap out the olive oil for flavored oils like garlic-infused or chili oil for a kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a spicy barbecue sauce in the last few minutes of baking for a sticky glaze!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken drumsticks for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just ensure they’re fully thawed before seasoning and cooking, as this will ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

How can I tell when the chicken legs are done?
The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature needs to reach at least 165 degrees F to ensure the chicken is safe to eat.

Can I bake these chicken legs without skin?
Absolutely! You can use skinless chicken drumsticks, but keep in mind that they may not be as crispy. Adjust cooking time if necessary, as skinless pieces may require less time in the oven.

• Perfect Side Dishes for Chicken
• Easy Chicken Marinades for Flavor

Enjoy your culinary adventure with these mouthwatering baked chicken legs!