- Prepare your baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. You can also place a cooling rack on top of the baking sheet, which will allow air to circulate around the chicken and result in crispier skin.
- Place the chicken legs on the baking sheet. Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared sheet in a single layer. Make sure the legs are spaced apart so that they cook evenly.
- Bake the chicken. Place the chicken legs in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-45 minutes. The exact time will depend on the size of the chicken legs. Halfway through cooking, you can flip the chicken legs over to ensure even browning. However, flipping is optional; some prefer to keep them undisturbed for extra crispy skin on the top.
- Check for doneness. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the leg, avoiding the bone. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, another indicator is when the juices run clear after piercing the thickest part of the drumstick with a knife.
Stage 3: Achieving Extra Crispiness
If you prefer an extra crispy finish, once the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature, switch the oven to broiland cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the skin is golden and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Stage 4: Serving the Chicken Legs
- Rest the chicken. Once the chicken legs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps redistribute the juices, making the meat more tender and juicy.
- Garnish and serve. If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the chicken legs for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the chicken legs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Legs:
- Pat the chicken dry: Drying the chicken skin before seasoning is essential for crispy skin. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Use high heat: The key to crispy skin is baking at a high temperature (425°F). It allows the skin to crisp up without drying out the meat.
- Season generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. A well-seasoned chicken leg is packed with flavor, and the spices create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
- Optional marinades: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken legs for 1-4 hours before baking. Use a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a simple yet flavorful marinade.
Final Thoughts:
Baked chicken legs are the perfect dish for any occasion. They’re easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and always delicious. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a meal that’s crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try – you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make these perfect chicken legs. Enjoy!