Imagine coming home after a long day—oh, the joy of opening the oven to the scent of herbs and spices mingling with the sizzle of chicken skin crisping to perfection. These crispy baked chicken legs, a comfort food staple, deliver a punch of flavor that makes you wonder why you’d ever consider ordering takeout again. It’s like a warm hug from the oven, with each bite reminding you of Sunday dinners and family gatherings, even if it’s just a regular Tuesday night.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it lightly with non-stick cooking spray.
- Take the chicken drumsticks out of their packaging and use paper towels to thoroughly pat them dry to remove any excess moisture.
- Place the drumsticks in a bowl or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour olive oil over them and toss to ensure they are well coated.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and onion powder.
- Add the seasoning blend to the bowl or bag with the drumsticks. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
- Arrange the seasoned drumsticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Place them in the preheated oven.
- Bake the chicken legs for 40 to 45 minutes. They are done when the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the drumsticks are fully cooked. The chicken should be tender, and the juices should run clear when cut.
- Once done, remove the drumsticks from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks (approximately 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2480kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 216g | Fat: 168g | Saturated Fat: 40g | Cholesterol: 1112mg | Sodium: 5944mg | Potassium: 2912mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 3912IU | Calcium: 120mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- How can I ensure the chicken skin is crispy?
- To achieve crispy skin, make sure to thoroughly dry the chicken legs using paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial before you coat them with olive oil and seasoning.
- What temperature should I bake the chicken legs at?
- Bake the chicken legs at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high temperature helps in crisping up the skin while ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy.
- How do I confirm if the chicken legs are fully cooked?
- The best way to ensure the chicken legs are fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also cut into the meat to check that it’s cooked through and the juices run clear.
- How long can I store cooked chicken in the refrigerator?
- Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. While the skin may lose its crispiness upon reheating, the meat is delicious and can be used cold in sandwiches and salads.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with baked chicken legs?
- Baked chicken legs pair well with various side dishes such as potato dishes like roasted sweet potatoes or German potato salad, vegetable sides like glazed carrots or air fryer broccoli, and other options like baked beans or Parmesan orzo.
Tips
- Thoroughly dry the chicken drumsticks with paper towels before seasoning to achieve that perfectly crispy skin.
- For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat it with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Bake the chicken legs at a high temperature of 425°F to help crisp the skin, and use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach at least 165°F, allowing for a little extra time to avoid red spots near the bone.
- Store leftover chicken in the refrigerator for up to four days; it can be enjoyed cold or reheated, although the skin might lose its crispiness.
Equipment
- Meat Thermometer – Essential for checking the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Resealable Plastic Bags – Useful for marinating the chicken with oil and seasonings.
- Non-stick Cooking Spray – To prevent the chicken from sticking to the foil-lined baking sheet.
