Description
These Juicy and Crispy Chicken Legs are seasoned with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices, then baked until the skin is perfectly crispy while the meat stays tender and juicy. They’re an easy, family-friendly dinner that’s great for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 8 chicken drumsticks
Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispy skin)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it is hot enough to create crispy skin on the chicken legs.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving crispy skin.
- Mix the seasoning: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and baking powder (if using) to create a flavorful rub.
- Coat the chicken: Evenly coat each chicken leg with the seasoning mixture, making sure every piece is well covered with the spices and oil.
- Arrange for baking: Place the drumsticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken, promoting even cooking and crisping.
- Bake the chicken: Bake the chicken legs for 40 to 45 minutes in the preheated oven, turning them once halfway through cooking to crisp both sides evenly. Bake until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure doneness.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the drumsticks from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish, and serve hot for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Drying the chicken well helps achieve crispier skin.
- For extra browning, broil the chicken for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American