Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Legs
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
35 mins
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Cook Time
35 mins
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Total Time
1 hr 10 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
361 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Dinner
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Cuisine
American
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Legs
Description
The recipe begins by marinating skin-on chicken legs in a blend of melted butter, olive oil, dried oregano, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and lemon juice. The marinade imparts moisture and a balance of savory, smoky, and citrus notes. After marinating for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours, the legs are roasted uncovered at 450°F, allowing the skin to crisp while cooking the meat through.
Lemon slices placed between the legs infuse subtle citrus aroma and help maintain juiciness. Roasting for 30 to 35 minutes produces a golden brown exterior with tender, well-cooked meat inside. Fresh thyme garnishes each serving for added herbal fragrance.
These chicken legs can be served warm alongside salads, mashed or roasted potatoes, rice, or coleslaw, offering a versatile main course with robust flavor and attractive presentation.
Using a thermometer to check doneness ensures safe, moist results; the internal temperature should reach 180 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the drumstick. Boneless or skinless thighs, or chicken breasts may be substituted, though cooking time and texture may vary accordingly.
Ingredients
- 12 chicken legs skin on
- 4 tablespoon butter melted, unsalted
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon sliced
- thyme for garnish, fresh
Instructions
- In a large ziploc bag add the chicken legs, melted butter, olive oil, oregano, paprika, garlic, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Close the ziploc bag and toss everything together well.
- Place the ziploc bag in the fridge and marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes up to 24 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 450℉.
- Transfer the chicken legs to a large casserole dish and place the lemon slices in between the legs. Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes or until legs are golden brown and cooked through.
- Garnish with fresh thyme and serve warm.
Notes
- Use a thermometer to ensure chicken legs reach 180 to 185°F for safe doneness.
- Boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts can be substituted but may require adjusted cooking times.
- Serve with sides like salads, rice, or potatoes to complement the lemon garlic flavor.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 361 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2legs | |
| Calories | 361kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 27g | 54% |
| Fat | 26g | 40% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 159mg | 53% |
| Sodium | 159mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 378mg | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 470IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 12.1mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 31mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1.3mg | 7% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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