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Baked Chicken Legs Recipe
Baked chicken legs are a crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful combination of juicy meat and crispy skin. This straightforward recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, requiring minimal prep but delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken legs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, according to preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional for heat: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for ensuring the chicken cooks through while achieving a crispy skin.
- Clean the chicken legs by rinsing them under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up in the oven.
Seasoning:
- Make the seasoning mix by combining salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small bowl.
- Rub the chicken legs with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. This helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes crispy skin.
- Season the chicken legs generously with the spice mix, making sure to coat all sides evenly for maximum flavor.
Baking:
- Arrange the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack over a baking tray. The wire rack is optional but recommended as it allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, cooking it evenly and helping the skin become crispier.
- Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken legs are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the leg without touching the bone.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is moist and tender.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your baked chicken legs with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. They’re also delicious with a side of rice or quinoa, especially if you want to soak up any juices or flavors from the chicken.
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Legs:
- Marinating Time: For even more flavor, consider marinating the chicken legs in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Broiling: For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs based on your preferences. Chicken legs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide range of flavors.