Juicy, tender baked chicken legs are the ultimate comfort food, with crispy skin and succulent meat that falls off the bone. In just 50 minutes, you can create a dish that’s bursting with savory flavors and a hint of golden caramelization. Perfectly seasoned and effortlessly simple, this recipe is a weeknight lifesaver that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
The aroma of herbs and spices fills your kitchen as the chicken bakes to perfection, creating a mouthwatering balance of crispy and juicy textures. Whether you’re serving it with roasted veggies or fluffy mashed potatoes, these baked chicken legs promise a satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients for Perfectly Baked Chicken Legs
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks (about 8 pieces, pat dry for better seasoning adherence)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika works great for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste for more or less heat)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (fresh thyme can be substituted, use 1 teaspoon)
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or sea salt recommended)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a higher smoke point)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Juicy Baked Chicken Legs
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and set aside.
- Mix the seasonings: In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure even distribution.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels (this helps the seasoning stick better). Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks, tossing to ensure each piece is well-coated.
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake: Cook in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping the drumsticks halfway through. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F-175°F (74°C-80°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps retain juiciness.
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your baked chicken legs with a drizzle of garlic butter or a tangy honey mustard glaze for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, try a sriracha mayo dip or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, top with a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a bright finish.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Legs Like a Pro
Pair your juicy chicken legs with roasted vegetables or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting side, try mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread. Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce to add a zesty touch!
Storing and Reheating Tips for Leftovers
Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For a quicker option, use the microwave, but cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
Quick Recipe Variations to Try
Switch up the seasoning blend with Italian herbs or a lemon-pepper mix for a fresh twist. For a smoky flavor, add liquid smoke to the olive oil before coating the chicken. If you’re short on time, use a pre-made seasoning blend to simplify prep without sacrificing taste.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Prep your seasoning mix ahead of time and store it in a small jar for future use. To cut down on cleanup, line your baking sheet with aluminum foil instead of parchment paper. If you’re in a rush, skip the flipping step and bake the chicken legs on a wire rack for even cooking.
Baked Chicken Legs
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks 8 pieces
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Combine the seasonings in a small bowl, mixing well.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks, tossing to coat.
- Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the chicken and toss to coat the drumsticks.
- Place chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through the cook time, until the chicken is cooked through to at least 165F-175F. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.