Baked Chicken Legs
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Baked Chicken Legs
Description
This baked chicken legs recipe uses eight drumsticks seasoned with a balanced spice mix including smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. The chicken is coated in olive oil to promote even browning and crispiness.
The drumsticks are oven-roasted at 425°F on a foil-lined baking sheet until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or higher, ensuring they are fully cooked. The high heat helps the seasoning penetrate and forms a lightly crisped exterior while keeping the meat inside juicy and tender.
These baked chicken legs can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or salads. Leftovers store well and can be repurposed in sandwiches or salads.
Cooking a bit longer past the minimum internal temperature can make the meat more tender without affecting safety. Proper storage in the refrigerator allows enjoying the chicken cold or reheated later.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumstick about 2 lb
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper ground
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425 degree F.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with non-stick cooking oil. Set aside.
- Remove drumsticks from packaging. Pat them dry with paper towels. Place into a bowl or resealable plastic bag. Add oil oil and toss to coat.
- In a small bowl combine seasonings. Add to bowl/bag and toss until chicken is coated.
- Place drumsticks on the baking sheet. Place in a preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature is 165 degrees or higher.
Notes
- The chicken legs can be cooked until just safe at 165°F, but longer cooking can yield juicier, fall-off-the-bone texture.
- Leftover baked chicken lasts up to four days in the refrigerator; the skin may lose crispness after reheating.
- Removing meat from bones is convenient for sandwiches and salads and can be eaten cold or warmed.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 310 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 310kcal | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 27g | 54% |
| Fat | 21g | 32% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 139mg | 46% |
| Sodium | 743mg | 31% |
| Potassium | 364mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 489IU | 10% |
| Calcium | 15mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.