Oven Baked Chicken Legs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Oven Baked Chicken Legs are a classic comfort food that’s incredibly easy to prepare and full of juicy flavor. With crispy skin on the outside and tender meat on the inside, these drumsticks are seasoned to perfection and baked to a golden brown. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, they require minimal prep and are always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken legs (drumsticks)olive oilpaprikaonion powdergarlic powderdried thymeblack peppersea salt

directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.

Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure crispier skin.

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning paste.

Rub the seasoning paste all over each chicken leg, ensuring they are fully coated.

Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crisp.

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 chicken legs.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 35-45 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

Add cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.

Use Italian seasoning for a herby twist.

Brush with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking for a smoky flavor.

Swap olive oil for melted butter for extra richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken legs?

Yes, but thaw them completely before baking for even cooking.

Why isn’t the skin crispy?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry and bake at a high temperature.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, this recipe works well with thighs or drumsticks.

Is it okay to bake without foil or parchment?

Yes, just be sure to grease the pan well or use a wire rack for even crisping.

Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Absolutely, marinating for a few hours enhances flavor even more.

How do I know the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—the internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).

Should I flip the chicken legs?

It’s not necessary, but you can flip halfway for even browning.

What sides go well with this?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or coleslaw pair nicely.

Can I lower the baking temperature?

You can, but the skin may not get as crispy.

Do I need to cover the chicken?

No, bake uncovered for crispy skin.

Conclusion

Oven Baked Chicken Legs are a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have juicy, crispy drumsticks that everyone will love. Make a batch tonight and enjoy a satisfying, no-fuss meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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