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Baked Chicken Legs

Baked Chicken Legs
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These baked chicken legs are a flavorful and fuss-free dinner option featuring crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Using simple ingredients like olive oil, garlic, paprika, and herbs, you can create a comforting homemade meal with versatile flavor variations including spicy, savory, or sweet. Perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner for the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4–6 chicken legs, skin-on and bone-in
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika or smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon fresh or dried thyme or rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or zest from one lemon

Optional Ingredients for Variations

  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder (for spicy kick)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon grated ginger (for Asian-inspired)
  • ¼ cup barbecue sauce (for BBQ flair, add in last 10 minutes of baking)
  • 1 teaspoon mixed fresh parsley, basil, and oregano (herbaceous delight)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (for sweet glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice (for sweet & tangy variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Legs: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Lightly coat each leg with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder or fresh garlic, paprika, herbs, and lemon juice or zest. Add optional ingredients depending on your desired flavor profile.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps render fat under the skin and achieves a golden, crispy exterior.
  3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the chicken legs on a wire rack positioned over a baking sheet to allow even air circulation around the meat. If you don’t have a rack, place the legs on a foil-lined baking tray, turning them halfway through baking for even cooking.
  4. Bake Until Juicy and Crispy: Bake for 35-40 minutes depending on size. The skin should be crisp and golden brown. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  5. Rest Before Serving: Remove chicken legs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry thoroughly before seasoning for crispier skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Marinate chicken legs for at least 1 hour or overnight to deepen flavor.
  • Flip chicken legs halfway through baking for even browning.
  • Rest cooked chicken legs for 5 minutes before serving to lock in moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken legs, crispy chicken legs, easy chicken dinner, oven baked chicken, healthy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/baked-chicken-legs/