Explore the comforting flavors of “Homestyle Favorite: Baked Chicken Legs,” a simple yet delicious dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. This recipe features chicken legs seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then baked to golden, juicy perfection. Baked chicken legs are not only economical but also a hit with all ages, making them an ideal choice for both weeknight meals and casual gatherings. They offer a fantastic way to enjoy a high-protein, flavorful meal with minimal prep and cleanup.
Why You’ll Love Baked Chicken Legs:
- Flavorful and Juicy: The dark meat of chicken legs remains moist and tender during baking, providing a rich flavor that’s enhanced by the spices.
- Easy and Convenient: With a simple seasoning and oven baking, this dish requires little hands-on time.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with various seasonings to match any cuisine style.
- Family-Friendly: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients Notes For Baked Chicken Legs:
- Chicken Legs: This recipe uses whole legs, which include the thigh and drumstick, but you can use separate parts if preferred.
- Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes a crispy skin.
- Garlic Powder, Paprika, and Onion Powder: Provide a robust flavor base that complements the natural taste of the chicken.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Optional Herbs and Spices: Add dried thyme, rosemary, or a touch of cayenne pepper for extra depth and a hint of heat.
Recipe Steps:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C), which allows the chicken legs to crisp up nicely on the outside while staying juicy inside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets crispy. Place them in a large bowl or directly on a baking tray.
- Season: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken legs and sprinkle them with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add any additional herbs or spices as desired. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken to coat evenly.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken legs on a wire rack in a baking tray lined with foil (for easier cleanup). The rack helps air circulate around the chicken, cooking it evenly and helping the skin become crispy.
- Bake: Transfer the tray to the oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken skin is crispy and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken legs rest for a few minutes after baking to redistribute the juices. Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables, a salad, or mashed potatoes.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. The oven is best for keeping the skin crispy.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken legs drumsticks, with or without skin based on preference
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Additional herbs and spices like cayenne pepper for heat or a mix of dried herbs such as rosemary and oregano.
Instructions
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6 chicken legs (drumsticks, with or without skin based on preference)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: Additional herbs and spices like cayenne pepper for heat, or a mix of dried herbs such as rosemary and oregano.