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Oven Baked Chicken Legs Recipe

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4.2 from 2 reviews

This Oven Baked Chicken Legs recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to prepare juicy, tender chicken drumsticks with a blend of herbs and spices, baked to perfection in the oven. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, these chicken legs are crispy on the outside and moist inside.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 1/2 pounds)
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons oregano
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the chicken to a perfect crispy and tender texture.
  2. Prepare Spice Paste: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, oregano, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and olive oil to create a flavorful paste. This will evenly coat and season the chicken legs.
  3. Coat Chicken: Thoroughly coat each chicken drumstick with the spice paste, making sure every piece is well-covered for maximum flavor.
  4. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to keep the chicken from sticking.
  5. Bake Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes in the preheated oven, flipping the drumsticks halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  6. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating it is safely cooked through.
  7. Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let rest a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken legs hot.

Notes

  • Flipping the chicken halfway through baking helps achieve an evenly crispy skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accuracy to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
  • You can marinate the chicken in the spice paste for up to 2 hours before baking for enhanced flavor.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Feel free to substitute chicken drumsticks with thighs using the same cooking method.