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Crispy Baked Chicken Legs Recipe

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These Crispy Baked Chicken Legs are a simple, affordable, and flavorful dinner option. Made with pantry spices and olive oil, they come out of the oven with golden, crispy skin and juicy meat—no deep frying needed.

Ingredients

8 skin-on chicken drumsticks (approx. 2 pounds total weight)

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon sea salt (or 1 teaspoon for less salt)

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon smoked or sweet paprika

1 tablespoon dry mustard (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  3. Stir olive oil into the spice blend until a paste forms.
  4. Let the chicken legs come to room temperature.
  5. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
  6. Using a pastry brush or your hands, coat each drumstick thoroughly with the seasoning oil mixture.
  7. Place the chicken legs on the lined baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each one.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes on the middle rack.
  9. Brush the legs with the oil from the baking tray and bake an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Add cayenne or chili flakes for extra heat.
  • Try rosemary, thyme, or Italian herbs for a herby twist.
  • Brush with BBQ sauce for the last 5 minutes for a smoky finish.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness at 165°F.
  • Reheat in oven or air fryer for best crispness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyjanet.com/crispy-baked-chicken-legs-recipe/