6 Baked Chicken Leg Recipes

Chicken legs are a favorite in many households for their rich flavor, juiciness, and affordability.

Baked chicken legs offer a healthier alternative to fried versions while still providing that satisfying, crispy texture that so many people love.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook looking to spice up your poultry repertoire or a novice in the kitchen, these 6 baked chicken leg recipes provide a variety of flavors that cater to different tastes and occasions.

1. Classic Herb-Roasted Chicken Legs

These herb-roasted chicken legs are a timeless dish, perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp dried rosemary
• 1 tbsp dried thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
4. Rub the herb mixture over the chicken legs, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
5. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear.

2. Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Legs

Sweet and tangy, these honey mustard glazed chicken legs are perfect for when you want a burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange chicken legs on a greased baking dish.
4. Brush the honey mustard mixture over the chicken legs, coating them generously.
5. Bake for 50 minutes, basting the chicken halfway through with the pan juices.

3. Spicy Cajun Chicken Legs

Bring some heat to the dinner table with these spicy Cajun chicken legs, infused with the bold flavors of the South.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
3. Add chicken legs and olive oil; toss to coat thoroughly.
4. Arrange the chicken on a baking tray.
5. Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until crispy and cooked through.

4. Lemon Garlic Chicken Legs

These lemon garlic chicken legs offer a zesty and aromatic experience, ideal for a light and refreshing meal.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken legs in a baking dish and pour the lemon garlic mixture over them.
4. Bake for 50 minutes, turning once, until the skin is golden and crisp.

5. BBQ Rubbed Chicken Legs

Perfect for your next cookout, these BBQ-rubbed chicken legs are smoky, sweet, and sure to be a hit.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice blend all over the chicken legs.
4. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

6. Mediterranean-Inspired Chicken Legs

Infused with the flavors of the Mediterranean, these chicken legs are marinated in a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken legs and toss to coat.
3. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place chicken legs on a baking sheet and bake for 50 minutes, until golden and cooked through.

Conclusion – 6 Baked Chicken Leg Recipes

These 6 baked chicken leg recipes offer a delightful variety of flavors that are sure to please any palate.

From the comforting and familiar to the bold and spicy, each recipe provides a unique way to enjoy this versatile and economical cut of meat.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply looking to try something new, these recipes are designed to provide delicious results every time.

Enjoy exploring these tasty options and find your new favorite way to bake chicken legs!