Description
Learn how to make perfect baked chicken legs that are juicy inside with irresistibly crispy skin outside. This easy recipe features simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions to lock in moisture and maximize flavor, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4–6 chicken legs (fresh or thawed, skin on)
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Legs: Pat the chicken legs dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin by removing excess moisture.
- Season Thoroughly: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken legs and rub evenly. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optional dried herbs on all sides. Massage the seasonings into the skin and under the surface where possible.
- Preheat the Oven and Arrange: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the chicken legs spaced slightly apart on the rack to allow even air circulation.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the chicken legs for 35 to 45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy. Halfway through baking, baste the legs with their own juices or additional olive oil to maintain moisture and enhance shine.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken legs rest for about 5 minutes after baking to lock in juices and ensure tender, juicy meat. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Dry the chicken legs thoroughly before seasoning to achieve crispy skin.
- Use a wire rack to prevent soggy bottoms and promote even cooking.
- Bake at high heat (425°F) for a short time to crisp skin without drying the meat.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken after baking to retain juiciness.
- For variations, add cayenne for spice, fresh herbs for aroma, or a honey-smoked paprika glaze for sweetness.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken leg
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: baked chicken legs, crispy chicken, juicy chicken legs, easy chicken recipe, gluten free chicken, oven baked chicken, family dinner chicken
