Baked Chicken Legs

Short Description

Baked Chicken Legs are a simple yet flavorful dish featuring crispy skin, tender meat, and a smoky, garlicky seasoning. With minimal prep and just a handful of ingredients, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and juicy: The oven-baked method locks in moisture while crisping the skin.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples create big flavor without fuss.
• Versatile: Works as a main dish for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
• Family-friendly: Mild, balanced flavors appeal to all ages.
• Quick prep: Just season, bake, and enjoy.

Ingredients

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

• 6 medium chicken drumsticks (~1½ pounds)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (or olive oil or avocado oil)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe rack on top.
2. Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels for crispier skin. Arrange them on the rack.
3. Brush drumsticks with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
4. Bake for 25 minutes, flip, and bake another 10–20 minutes until internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C).
5. Optional: Broil for a few minutes for extra-crispy skin.
6. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 3–4
• Prep time: ~5 minutes
• Cook time: ~35–45 minutes
• Total time: ~40–50 minutes

Variations

• Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning.
• Herb lovers: Sprinkle fresh or dried rosemary, thyme, or oregano before baking.
• Lemon-garlic twist: Add lemon zest to the butter and serve with lemon wedges.
• BBQ style: Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Honey glaze: Mix honey with butter for a sweet-savory finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.

FAQs

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead?

Yes—adjust cooking time as needed until they reach 170°F internal temperature.

Do I Have To Use A Rack?

A rack allows air circulation for crispier skin, but you can bake directly on the foil-lined pan.

Can I Use Frozen Drumsticks?

Yes, but thaw completely before cooking for even results.

How Do I Know When They’re Done?

Use a meat thermometer; internal temperature should be 170°F.

Can I Make These Ahead?

Yes—season and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead, then bake when ready.

What Oil Works Best?

Olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter all work well.

How Do I Keep The Skin Crispy?

Dry the chicken well before seasoning and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I Double The Recipe?

Yes—use two baking sheets so the drumsticks have space to crisp.

Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?

Yes—there are no added carbs.

Can I Add Vegetables To The Pan?

Yes—add root vegetables like potatoes or carrots, but note they may affect skin crispiness.

Conclusion

Baked Chicken Legs are a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing meal with crispy skin, tender meat, and flavorful seasoning. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you’ll have a satisfying dish perfect for busy nights or relaxed weekends.

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