Description
These Crispy Herb Baked Chicken Legs are a simple, flavorful, and easy-to-make main course. Chicken drumsticks are coated in a blend of oil and herbs, then baked until the skin is crispy and the meat is juicy and tender.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6–8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil, avocado oil, olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste (optional, depending on seasoning blend)
- Black pepper, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. For crispier skin, place a wire rack on top of the lined baking sheet.
- Prepare Seasoning Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooking oil, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and garlic powder. Whisk until well combined. You can also add salt and pepper to taste, if desired.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken legs completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Coat Chicken: Add the chicken legs to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Toss until the chicken is evenly and thoroughly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned chicken legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet (or on the wire rack set over the baking sheet). Ensure there is some space between each drumstick for even cooking.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked, the juices run clear, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the drumstick, avoiding the bone.
- Rest (Optional): Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve.
Notes
- Chicken Legs vs. Drumsticks: The term “chicken legs” often refers specifically to drumsticks in recipes like this.
- Crispy Skin: Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and using a wire rack during baking will help achieve crispier skin.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference. You can add other herbs like paprika, rosemary, or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the drumsticks and your oven.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these baked chicken legs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a salad.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge.