To bake chicken legs, here is a simple and effective method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (about 200°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken legs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Coat the chicken legs with olive oil or melted butter, then season generously with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika, garlic powder, or smoked paprika.
- Arrange the chicken legs on the baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between them.
- Bake them uncovered in the oven for about 35 to 40 minutes. You can flip them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- For extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken legs for a few minutes at the end.
- The internal temperature of the chicken legs should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
This process yields crispy, juicy, and flavorful baked chicken legs with minimal prep and cleanup.
Optional variations include coating the chicken with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and garlic for a sticky glaze baked initially at 350°F then finished at 425°F for caramelization.
Depending on your preference, you can also season with a spice rub including cumin, brown sugar, and herbs for a more complex flavor profile and bake at 425°F for about 40-45 minutes.
This versatile method allows you to adjust spices and cooking time slightly according to the size of the legs and desired doneness.
