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Crispy and Juicy Oven-Baked Chicken Legs Made Easy

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🍗 Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat with these easily oven-baked chicken legs!
🍽️ Simple preparation ensures a flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

6 chicken legs (about 1.75 lbs / 800 grams), bone-in and skin-on
1 tablespoon olive oil (or canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
2 teaspoons paprika (regular or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor)
1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to about ½ teaspoon for regular salt if preferred)
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional, can substitute with ¼ teaspoon dried oregano)
1 teaspoon parsley flakes
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (freshly cracked preferred)
½ teaspoon ground mustard
Optional for heat: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper and/or 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels and trim any excess skin.
3. In a large resealable plastic bag or mixing bowl, add the olive oil and chicken legs. Toss or shake to coat evenly.
4. Combine all dry seasonings in a small bowl, then add to the bag or bowl with chicken. Toss or shake well to coat.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange chicken legs in a single layer with space between them.
6. Bake on the middle rack for approximately 40 minutes, flipping halfway through if desired.
7. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Last Step:

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Notes

🧺 Pat the chicken dry before adding oil for crispy skin by removing moisture.
🌶️ Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor, enhancing the grilled taste.
🍽️ Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken leg
  • Calories: 282
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 537mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 25g