Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that promises both crunch and flavor? Look no further than these Crispy Baked Chicken Legs! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 50 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a mouthwatering meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine biting into perfectly seasoned, golden-brown chicken with a crispy skin that crackles with every bite—this recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Dive into this article to discover the secrets to achieving that restaurant-quality crispiness right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken legs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that desired crispy skin on the chicken legs.
- While the oven is heating, prepare the chicken legs. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving crispiness.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are evenly coated. Make sure to get the marinade under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This will allow air to circulate around the chicken, enhancing crispiness.
- Arrange the marinated chicken legs on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching each other. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy all around.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the chicken legs in the oven. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once done, remove the chicken legs from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve the crispy baked chicken legs hot with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Preheat for Perfect Crispiness: Always preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) before baking. The high temperature is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy skin.
- Pat Dry for Extra Crunch: Don’t skip the step of patting the chicken legs dry. Removing excess moisture is essential for that coveted crunch.
- Marinade Magic: Make sure to get the marinade under the skin of the chicken legs. This not only infuses flavor but also helps to keep the meat juicy during cooking.
- Use a Wire Rack: Placing the chicken legs on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Keep Space Between Legs: Arrange the chicken legs so they’re not touching each other on the rack. This helps them cook evenly and prevents steaming, which can make the skin soggy.
- Broil for a Finishing Touch: For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the chicken legs rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
- Pair with Delicious Sides: Serve your crispy chicken legs with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 504kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 90mg
