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Oven Baked Chicken Legs
Oven Baked Chicken Legs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight meal or planning a special dinner, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds. The combination of crispy skin and juicy meat makes oven-baked chicken legs a favorite among both kids and adults.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. The best part is that you can customize the seasonings and flavors to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish that you can enjoy over and over again.
In this article, we will walk you through the ingredients you need, the steps to prepare oven-baked chicken legs, some delicious variations to try, helpful tips to ensure success, and finally, answer some common questions about this recipe.
Ingredients
To make delicious Oven Baked Chicken Legs, you will need the following ingredients:
– Chicken legs (skin-on for extra crispiness)
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
– Garlic powder
– Paprika
– Dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
These simple ingredients can be easily found in your pantry or local grocery store, making this recipe a convenient choice for any day of the week.
Steps
Follow these simple steps to prepare Oven Baked Chicken Legs:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Season the chicken legs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Serve the Oven Baked Chicken Legs hot with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
Variations
Here are some delicious variations you can try with Oven Baked Chicken Legs:
– BBQ Chicken Legs: Brush the chicken legs with your favorite BBQ sauce before baking for a tangy and sweet flavor.
– Spicy Chicken Legs: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
– Lemon Herb Chicken Legs: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken legs before baking and add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a bright and zesty flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and sauces to create your own unique twist on this classic dish.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Oven Baked Chicken Legs turn out perfectly every time:
– Make sure to pat the chicken legs dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy skin.
– For extra flavor, marinate the chicken legs in the seasoning mix for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
– Let the chicken legs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat moist.
Conclusion
Oven Baked Chicken Legs are a simple yet delicious dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Whether you stick to the classic seasonings or experiment with different flavors, Oven Baked Chicken Legs offer endless possibilities for customization and creativity in the kitchen. So, next time you are looking for a hassle-free meal that is both tasty and nutritious, give this recipe a try!
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken legs?
A: Yes, you can substitute boneless chicken thighs for chicken legs in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly as boneless cuts may cook faster.
Q: How can I make the skin extra crispy?
A: To achieve extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken legs for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Q: Can I prepare Oven Baked Chicken Legs in advance?
A: While Oven Baked Chicken Legs are best when served fresh, you can partially cook them ahead of time and finish baking right before serving for a convenient meal prep option.
Oven Baked Chicken Legs
Oven Baked Chicken Legs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish with crispy skin and juicy meat, perfect for any occasion. This recipe requires minimal prep time and customizable seasonings, making it a versatile and flavorful meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
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4 chicken legs (skin-on)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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Salt and pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
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Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
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Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.
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Season the chicken legs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs, ensuring even coating.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
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Serve the Oven Baked Chicken Legs hot with lemon wedges on the side for added flavor.
