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If you are unsure how to cook chicken legs in the oven perfectly, you are in the right place. Juicy and succulent chicken legs are a family favorite loved by everyone, this is why you should know this easy cooking recipe that will add variety to your meal plans.
The Ingredients You Need
To cook chicken legs in the oven, you need a few simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry or fridge.
• Chicken legs
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
The Steps to Cook Chicken Legs in the Oven
Now that you’ve gathered all the needed ingredients, follow the steps below to prepare and cook chicken legs in the oven perfectly.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
The first step you should take is to preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roasting the chicken legs at a high temperature will ensure they become crispy on the outside while juicy and tender on the inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Legs
Next, you will need to prepare the chicken legs. Wash them properly and pat them dry with a paper towel. Additionally, you may wish to separate the chicken legs from the thighs for an even faster cooking process.
Step 3: Season the Chicken Legs
Now it’s time to season the chicken legs to enhance their flavor. Rub olive oil over your chicken legs to keep them moist and tender while cooking, ensuring the flavor penetrates the meat. After that, sprinkle salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder over the chicken legs. For additional flavor, you may add some fresh thyme, rosemary, or other herbs.
Step 4: Place on a Baking Dish
Once you’ve seasoned the chicken legs, place them on a baking dish or roasting pan. Remember to maintain a gap of an inch between each chicken leg because it allows for optimal cooking, ensuring that the heat is evenly distributed to all parts of the chicken legs.
Step 5: Roasting the Chicken Legs in The Oven
Put the chicken legs in the oven and roast them for 45 minutes, ensuring that you flip them after 25 minutes, in order to allow each side to cook evenly. Always make use of a meat thermometer to check that the chicken legs have reached an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Afterward, remove the baking pan from the oven and let the chicken legs rest for five minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How to store leftover chicken legs?
Place the leftover chicken legs in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to two days.
2. What can I serve with cooked chicken legs?
You can serve the chicken legs with any sides of your choice like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, french fries, mac and cheese, or a salad for a more balanced meal.
3. Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes! You can use chicken thighs instead of chicken legs if you prefer. Cooking instructions remain the same.
4. How long does it take to cook chicken legs?
It takes about 45 minutes to one hour to cook chicken legs properly in the oven.
5. Can I freeze leftover chicken legs?
If the chicken legs were cooked immediately and stored properly in the fridge, you can freeze the leftover chicken legs for up to three months.
In conclusion, learning how to cook chicken legs in the oven is an ideal way of experiencing the best of this delicious poultry dish. Although it seems like a daunting task, by following the steps outlined above, you can make crispy, juicy, and mouth-watering chicken legs that your family and guests will enjoy.
