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Simple Crispy Baked Chicken Legs

Four crispy, richly seasoned Baked Chicken Legs resting on white parchment paper, fresh out of the oven.
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Follow these steps to bake chicken legs in the oven for juicy meat and crispy skin.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
  2. Pat the chicken legs completely dry using paper towels. This step helps achieve crispy skin.
  3. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken legs with olive oil until lightly coated.
  4. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
  5. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken legs, rubbing it onto the skin.
  6. Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch.
  7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part.
  8. For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For extra moisture, you can place a small amount of water or chicken broth in the bottom of the baking pan.
  • If you prefer a BBQ flavor, skip the oregano and add 2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • To ensure even cooking, try to use chicken legs of similar size.

Nutrition

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