Crispy Baked Chicken Legs

These simple crispy baked chicken legs are a delicious answer for weeknight dinners or when you need a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Tender on the inside with a gloriously golden skin outside these chicken legs take just a few minutes to prep and let the oven do the rest of the work.

My family always gathers around the kitchen as these bake and that sizzling aroma reminds me of comforting Sunday evenings growing up. I first tried this on a whim and now it is our requested game day treat.

Ingredients

• Chicken legs: I look for ones with smooth firm skin and even size for the most even baking
• Extra virgin olive oil: adds flavor and helps the spices cling while crisping the skin beautifully
• Paprika: I prefer sweet paprika for color and warmth Spanish is best for bold flavor
• Garlic powder: brings savory tones and savory depth to every bite
• Onion powder: enhances the natural savoriness and helps balance the blend
• Dried parsley: adds a fresh herby lift choose bright green flakes for best flavor
• Kosher salt: helps season the meat deeply always measure generously
• Ground pepper: gives gentle heat and balances richness

• Choose fresh aromatic spices for the fullest flavor pay attention to the date on your jars

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Allow your oven to heat fully to 425 degrees Fahrenheit this sets the stage for crispy skin

Prepare the Baking Sheet:

Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and lightly mist with oil spray this helps make cleanup extra easy later

Mix the Seasoning:

In a large bowl whisk olive oil paprika garlic powder onion powder parsley salt and pepper until you have a bright and even paste

Dry and Coat the Chicken:

Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels then tumble them into the bowl rubbing well so each piece is glossy and evenly coated with all the spices

Arrange the Chicken:

Lay the seasoned legs in a single layer with some space between each to let the heat circulate If you have a rack place it over your sheet pan for even crispness

Bake:

Roast for forty to forty five minutes until the skin is deep golden brown and the chicken tests at least one hundred sixty five degrees inside The skin should sound crisp and look bubbly

Rest Before Serving:

Let the chicken legs sit on the baking sheet for several minutes after removing from the oven to allow juices to settle

Pin

There is something deeply nostalgic about the way paprika colors the skin watching each piece get crispy in the oven always makes me anticipate that first juicy bite I love pairing this with a cool creamy sauce at the table

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator The chicken stays well for up to four days For longer storage freeze individually wrapped legs up to two months then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat uncovered in a hot oven for best crispiness

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use skin on bone in chicken thighs for similar results If you are low on paprika try smoked paprika or add a touch of cayenne for extra heat Dried Italian herbs also work in place of parsley and avocado oil is an easy swap for olive oil

Serving Suggestions

Pile these chicken legs onto a party platter with fresh lemon wedges and a side of ranch or blue cheese dip They also fit perfectly alongside mashed potatoes simple roasted vegetables or a hearty salad for a classic meal

Cultural or Historical Context

Chicken legs have long been a staple for family style dining and budget friendly meals This style of oven roasting is rooted in classic comfort food traditions across many cultures The simple spice rub makes this approachable for cooks of all backgrounds

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you get chicken legs crispy in the oven?

Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels before tossing with oil and seasonings. Bake at a high temperature, such as 425°F, and leave space between each piece to encourage air circulation and even browning.

→ Can you use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite spices, like smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs, to personalize the flavor profile.

→ What internal temperature is safe for chicken legs?

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption, using a meat thermometer inserted near the bone.

→ How do you make chicken legs in an air fryer?

Coat the chicken in seasoned oil and arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 18 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.

→ How should you serve baked chicken legs?

Let the chicken rest briefly after baking, then serve hot as a main course with your favorite side dishes or as an appetizer for gatherings.