Name: Easy Baked Chicken Legs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces chicken drumsticks (skin-on); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked); 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme

What is comfort food? How easy is it to make baked chicken legs? Is it possible to whip up your own homemade pizza? What are some of the best drumsticks you’ve ever had at a barbecue? Now imagine achieving that *without* the hassle of firing up the grill. What is this easy baked chicken leg recipe? Is it true that fried chicken is better than my grandma’s?

What is an easy baked chicken leg recipe?

What is the easiest way to cook chicken legs? How do you cook drumsticks in the oven? What is the perfect balance between succulent meat and beautifully done dishes? Is it possible to get a browned skin with minimal effort? You know how sometimes you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? What is your answer to this recipe? Is it healthier to eat a whole chicken instead of taking it out? What a crowd please

Why you’ll love this recipe?

There are so many reasons why this recipe has become a staple in my house, but let me just give you the highlights. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible! The blend of simple spices creates a savory, slightly smoky taste that’s irresistible. Think paprika, garlic powder, onion powder – all those kitchen staples that magically transform humble chicken legs into something spectacular. What I love most about this is how unbelievably easy it is. Seriously, you’re looking at maybe 10 minutes of prep time, and the oven does the rest. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Then there’s the cost-effectiveness. Chicken legs are one of the most budget-friendly cuts of meat, making this a fantastic option when you’re feeding a family or just trying to keep your grocery bill down. And did I mention how versatile they are? Serve them with mashed potatoes and gravy for a classic comfort meal, alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option, or even as part of a game-day spread. They truly go with everything! I find that these baked chicken legs are a perfect weeknight dinner idea. I’m telling you, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, delicious, and won’t break the bank, look no further.

How do I make easy baked chicken legs?

Quick Overview

What are some easy baked chicken legs recipes? How do you prepare chicken legs? What are some good ways to arrange them on a baking sheet and let the oven work its magic. How do you bake crispy skin at a relatively high temperature? I often throw them in the oven before I help my kids with their homework. The method is so simple that I can’t do anything about it. How do I do my By the time we’re done, dinner’s ready! It’s truly a hands-off cooking experience.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Legs:
• 6-8 chicken legs (about 2-3 pounds). Fresh or thawed are fine. I prefer organic when I can find them, but any chicken legs will work!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil you prefer) This helps the spices stick and ensures crispy skin.

What is the spice rub?
• 2 teaspoons paprika. This gives it that lovely smoky flavor and beautiful color. I use smoked paprika for a deeper taste sometimes.
What is better with garlic powder?
• 1 teaspoon onion powder. Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano. You can use Italian seasoning if you like.
• 12 teaspoon salt. Adjust to taste, especially if your spice blend contains salt
• 14 teaspoon black pepper. Freshly ground is always best, if you ask me.
• 14 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) for a kick! My kids aren’t fans, so I usually skip this.

How do I follow

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving crispy skin. How do you clean a baking sheet? I always spray the parchment paper with a little cooking spray, too, just to be extra sure the paper will stay clean. Why doesn’t chicken stick? Is it worth it to do it in 2 seconds?

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Step 2: Prepare Chicken Legs

What is the best way to pat chicken legs dry with paper towels? How do you remove excess moisture from your skin in the oven? In a small bowl, mix together all the spices. Paprika, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper (if using). Don’t be shy with spices! They’re what give chicken its amazing flavor.

Step 3: Season Chicken Legs

Place chicken legs in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Make sure each leg is evenly coated with oil! Then, sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken legs, making sure they are evenly coated on all. I like to rub spices with my hands. Get in there and make sure every nook and cranny is covered! The more flavor, the better.

Step 4: Bake

Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not sticking together. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. I always use a meat thermometer to make sure they’re cooked through. When pierced with a fork, the juices should run clear. For extra crispy skin, you can broil them for the last few minutes, but watch them carefully so they don’t burn.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken legs are cooked through, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. What are some of the best ways to This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait! Serve immediately and enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

What are some of the best easy baked chicken legs?For a Classic Comfort Meal: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and gravy, alongside some steamed green beans or corn on the cob. My kids love this combination!
For a lighter option: Lighter Option:What are some good side dishes to serve with a salad? What are some great summer barbecue recipes?For a Game-Day Feast: What areServe them alongside other appetizers like potato skins, buffalo wings, and veggie sticks with dip. What are some of the best hits of all time?For a simple side:Roasted vegetables are delicious with baked chicken legs. Try broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roasted until tender. What is tender and slightly caramelized.

How do I bake chicken legs?

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that take these Easy Baked Chicken Legs from good to absolutely amazing. First, make sure your chicken legs are completely thawed before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly. Patting the chicken dry with paper towels is key for achieving crispy skin. Don’t skip this step! If you want to add a little extra flavor, marinate the chicken legs for a few hours (or even overnight) in your favorite marinade before baking. I love using a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs. Adjust the spice rub to your liking. If you like things spicy, add more cayenne pepper. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a touch of brown sugar to the spice rub. For extra crispy skin, place the chicken legs under the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking. But watch them closely, as they can burn quickly! Let the chicken legs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. I’ve found that a little bit of patience at this stage makes a HUGE difference.

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

If you have leftover Easy Baked Chicken Legs (which is rare in my house! ), you can store them in the refrigerator or freezer.Room Temperature: RoomI really don’t recommend leaving chicken out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria grow fast!Refrigerator Storage: HowCan you store chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days?How do I useWrap each chicken leg individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or dish. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.Reheating Tips: To reheat, thaw the chicken legs in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy. I usually add a splash of water to the container if microwaving to ensure the meat stays moist and doesn’t dry out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of legs?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs work perfectly with this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs tend to take a bit longer to cook than legs. Just make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make this recipe with frozen chicken legs?

It’s best to thaw the chicken legs completely before cooking to ensure they cook evenly. However, if you’re in a pinch, you can cook them from frozen, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time significantly. I highly suggest thawing, though!

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?

Definitely! Roasted vegetables are a great addition to this meal. Try adding potatoes, carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts to the baking sheet along with the chicken legs. Just toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting.

What other spices can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile. Some other great options include chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, rosemary, thyme, or even a pre-made seasoning blend like Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning. It’s really all about what flavors you love most.

Can I use skinless chicken legs?

You *can*, but I wouldn’t recommend it. The skin is what gives these chicken legs their crispy texture and flavor. If you use skinless chicken legs, they won’t be as juicy or flavorful. Trust me, the skin is worth it!

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Easy Baked Chicken Legs Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Seriously, it’s a family favorite for a reason! I love how simple it is to prepare, yet how incredibly flavorful and satisfying the results are. It’s the kind of recipe that you can whip up on a busy weeknight and still feel like you’re serving a restaurant-quality meal. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other easy chicken recipes, like my One-Pan Roasted Chicken and Vegetables or my Lemon Herb Baked Chicken Breast. They’re all designed to be quick, easy, and delicious! Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Let me know in the comments below if you try it out! And if you changed any of the spices, tell me about that, too!

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