Oven Baked Chicken Legs

Chicken legs have long been a beloved choice for home cooks, offering a perfect balance of rich flavor and satisfying texture. Their versatility makes them suitable for various cuisines and cooking methods, but what truly elevates chicken legs to crowd-pleaser status is the perfect combination of crispy skin and well-seasoned meat. In this article, we will explore a delightful recipe for Crispy Herb-Infused Oven-Baked Chicken Legs that promises to delight your taste buds and impress your family or guests.

Discover the joy of cooking with this crispy herb-infused oven-baked chicken legs recipe. Enjoy the perfect balance of juicy meat and crunchy skin, enhanced by a delicious blend of garlic, onion, smoked paprika, and fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. This simple recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With tips on marinating and baking techniques, you'll create a flavorful dish that's sure to impress family and friends.

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Ingredients

8 chicken legs (drumsticks)

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for an extra kick)

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

Prepare the Chicken: Take the chicken legs and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Drying the skin will promote a crispy texture when baked.

Make the Marinade: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat), and the juice of one lemon. Whisk the mixture vigorously until all the ingredients are well blended.

Coat the Chicken: Add the dried chicken legs to the bowl of marinade. Use your hands or a pair of tongs to toss them, making sure each leg is generously coated with the flavorful mixture. For optimal flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours if time permits.

Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place an oven-safe rack on top of the foil. This will allow the heat to circulate around the chicken efficiently. Space the chicken legs out evenly on the rack so they can cook thoroughly and crisp up nicely.

Bake the Chicken: Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken legs for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until they reach a beautiful golden brown color and an internal temperature of 175°F (80°C) is confirmed with a meat thermometer. For an additional layer of crispiness, turn on the broiler for the final 3-5 minutes, but keep a vigilant eye to prevent any burning.

Rest & Garnish: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Serve & Enjoy: Present the crispy, herb-infused chicken legs with sides of your choice, such as roasted seasonal vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a refreshing garden salad for a balanced meal.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 50 mins | 4 servings