Oven Fried Chicken Legs Recipe

Oven Fried Chicken Legs Recipe

Oven-fried chicken legs are a healthier and easier way to enjoy crispy, golden-brown chicken without the mess and extra calories of deep frying. With the right seasonings and a quick baking technique, you can make juicy and flavorful chicken legs that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for oven-fried chicken legs.

Ingredients:

• 8 chicken legs (drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crunch)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will ensure the chicken legs get crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Legs

• Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels. This step helps ensure the skin gets crispy when baked.
• Drizzle the chicken legs with olive oil (or melted butter) and rub it all over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated.

Step 3: Make the Seasoned Coating

• In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Stir the mixture until everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Legs

• Roll each chicken leg in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks to the chicken. Make sure to coat all sides of the chicken legs evenly.
• Arrange the coated chicken legs on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. The wire rack helps the heat circulate around the chicken, making it crispier on all sides. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can place the chicken directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Legs

• Place the chicken legs in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the coating is golden and crispy.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the chicken for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken Legs

• Once the chicken legs are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, making it more tender.

Step 7: Serve

• Serve the crispy oven-fried chicken legs with your favorite sides. They go great with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty kick.

Why This Recipe Works:

• Crispy without Frying: The combination of olive oil, breadcrumbs, and the high baking temperature gives you a crispy coating without the need for deep frying.
• Juicy Inside: Baking the chicken legs in the oven ensures the inside stays tender and juicy, while the outside gets perfectly crisp.
• Simple and Quick: This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or casual meals with family and friends.

Tips for Perfect Oven-Fried Chicken Legs:

• Dry the Chicken: Be sure to dry the chicken legs well before adding oil and seasoning to help the coating stick better.
• Use a Wire Rack: Using a wire rack allows the air to circulate around the chicken, helping it cook more evenly and crisp up on all sides.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs. You can add Italian seasoning, curry powder, or even a little honey for a sweet twist.
• Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest after baking to ensure the juices are sealed in for maximum tenderness.

These Oven Fried Chicken Legs are the perfect balance of crispy and juicy. Enjoy them for dinner, or serve them at your next gathering as a flavorful and easy-to-make dish!