Description
Golden, crunchy skin with juicy, flavorful meat inside—these crispy baked chicken legs deliver comfort and flavor without the mess of frying. Perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or meal prep.
Ingredients
8 chicken legs (drumsticks), skin-on
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or oregano)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda, for crispiness)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley or lemon wedges
Instructions
Preheat Oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare Chicken: Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels.
Coat with Oil: Toss chicken in olive oil until evenly coated.
Mix Seasoning: In a bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, cayenne, and baking powder.
Season Chicken: Sprinkle seasoning mixture over chicken. Toss well.
Arrange: Place chicken on a wire rack inside a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment. Space evenly.
Bake: Cook for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Rest: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Drying the chicken thoroughly is key for crisp skin.
Baking powder (not soda) ensures crunchiness.
Avoid overcrowding the pan—air circulation is essential.
For extra flavor, brush with melted garlic butter before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken legs
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 155 mg
Keywords: crispy baked chicken legs recipe, baked chicken drumsticks, oven baked chicken legs, crunchy chicken, easy chicken leg recipe