Description
Crispy Baked Chicken Legs are juicy on the inside with perfectly golden, crunchy skin on the outside—an easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly dinner option made entirely in the oven without frying.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder for heat
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and set a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken legs dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper.
- Rub each chicken leg with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared rack, leaving space between each piece.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure chicken legs are fully thawed and dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness.Use a wire rack to promote air circulation and even crisping.Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.Try variations like lemon-garlic, herb-seasoned, or sweet and smoky for different flavor profiles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken legs
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
