Easy Baked Chicken Legs
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
35 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
162 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Easy Baked Chicken Legs
Description
This recipe focuses on preparing chicken drumsticks with a basic but effective seasoning of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika rubbed under and on the skin. Baking at 400°F in the oven crisps the skin while gently cooking the meat through. The instructions suggest patting the chicken dry and using a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
The skin-on, bone-in drumsticks are allowed to rest after baking to maintain juiciness. Broiling at the end is optional for an even crispier skin texture. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note enhancing the flavor without overpowering the chicken.
Serving the legs warm after resting makes them suitable for simple dinners. Adjustments for using whole chicken legs or different seasoning blends are supported, as well as guidance on cooking time depending on size.
Notes advise that cooking times vary with size and recommend using a meat thermometer for precise doneness. Dark meat tolerates longer cooking for tenderness and crisp skin. Variations in seasoning are suggested for flexibility.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken drumsticks see notes, bone-in, skin on
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or more, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F and move the rack to the middle position. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy clean-up.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towel. Place the chicken pieces on the baking sheet and coat them all over with olive oil. Season them generously with salt & pepper. Sprinkle the smoked paprika on the skin, and then rub it on.
- Bake, uncovered, for 35-40 minutes. See recipe notes below for more info on timing. Optional: broil for a few more minutes to really crisp up the skin.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes prior to serving them (this ensures they will be juicy and tender).
Notes
- Whole chicken legs can be used as an alternative by adjusting seasoning and oil accordingly.
- Cooking time may need modification based on meat size; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Dark meat is more forgiving and benefits from cooking past minimum temperature for tenderness and crisp skin.
- Seasonings can be varied according to preference, with additional suggestions provided in extended notes.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 162 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 162kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 13g | 26% |
| Fat | 12g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Cholesterol | 70mg | 23% |
| Sodium | 79mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 169mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 117IU | 2% |
| Calcium | 8mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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