The Joy of Cooking Chicken Legs
Chicken leg recipes often take center stage when folks gather around the stove. These bad boys are not just tasty, they won’t break the bank either. Juicy and bursting with flavor, they’re a top pick for kitchen newcomers and seasoned chefs.
Why Chicken Legs Make a Great Meal
Chicken legs—your trusty drumstick and thigh combo—are like a flavor jackpot. Their tender and juicy dark meat gives you the best of both worlds. Even when you crank up the heat, they stay moist as ever. You can roast ’em, grill ’em, toss ‘em in a pan, or slow-cook them until they’re just right.
Versatility of Chicken Leg Recipes
The best part about chicken legs is their ability to take on whatever flavor you’re in the mood for. Craving something simple? Classic oven-baked’s got your back. Dreaming of a smoky BBQ finish? The grill’s your friend. There are marinated grilled chicken legs, zesty lemon-garlic skillet ones, and creamy slow-cooker versions—basically, something for everyone.
And, oh, the spices you can use! Chicken legs are like a blank canvas. Imagine whipping up a sweet and tangy teriyaki dish, or going for a punchy lemon-garlic seasoning. Their versatility is why they’re a staple in any cook’s playbook.
Tips for Cooking Chicken Legs
Want to nail it every time? Here’s a cheat sheet for cooking chicken legs like a pro:
- Let those chicken legs soak up a marinade for at least 30 minutes. Your taste buds will thank you.
- Don’t just throw salt and pepper. Your favorite herbs and spices? They deserve a place too.
- A meat thermometer is your buddy. Check that internal temp—it’s your ticket to safe, delicious chicken.
- After cooking, let ’em chill for a few so the juices settle. Bite into them, and you’ll know why the wait was worth it.
Dive into the wonderful world of chicken legs and experiment with all kinds of recipes. Each dish you whip up will leave you and your guests saying, “More, please!” Curious about more chicken goodness? Dig into our chicken breast recipes and grilled chicken recipes.
Baked Chicken Leg Recipes
Who doesn’t love a good baked chicken leg? Easy to make, these recipes will make your meals a hit in no time. We’ve cooked up two lip-smacking baked chicken leg recipes that’ll have you licking your fingers and wanting more:
Classic Oven-Baked Chicken Legs
Let’s talk about classic oven-baked chicken legs—simple, unfussy, and downright delicious. This recipe is easy-peasy, calling for just a few kitchen staples. The chicken comes out juicy with a crispy skin that’ll make you swoon.
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken legs | 6 pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried thyme | 1/2 tsp |
| Dried rosemary | 1/2 tsp |
- Fire up your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Give those chicken legs a quick rinse and pat them dry.
- Mix the olive oil with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
- Get your hands messy and rub that mix all over the chicken like you mean it.
- Lay those chicken legs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake away for about 45-50 minutes till they’re cooked through with a crispy, golden skin.
Pair these lovelies with sides you love, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone gathered around the table.
Seasoned Baked Chicken Legs
Feeling fancy? Spice things up with seasoned baked chicken legs that are packed with flavor and slam-dunk in taste. These babies are marinated to perfection and are sure to knock your socks off!
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken legs | 6 pieces |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Stir together lemon juice, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss chicken legs into a baking dish, pour the seasoned marinade over them, and roll them around for an even coating.
- Cover with foil and chill those legs in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken legs covered in the oven for 40-45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
Savory and succulent, these seasoned chicken legs will wow your crowd. Throw in a fresh salad or roasted veggies, and you have a perfectly balanced and delicious meal.
Grilled Chicken Leg Recipes
Nothing beats the taste of grilled chicken legs. It’s like the grill just knows how to bring that smoky goodness while keeping the inside juicy. Plus, it’s much better on the waistline than those deep-fried alternatives. Check out these two killer ways to jazz up your chicken legs for the next dinner or cookout:
Marinated Grilled Chicken Legs
A good marinade is like a spa day for your chicken, soaking up all the flavors while getting nice and tender. Before you hit the grill, try out this easy-peasy marinated chicken recipe:
Ingredients:
- Chicken legs: 4 pieces
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mix up the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Toss the chicken legs in a bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over, and spread it around evenly. Let it soak in all the flavor for at least 30 minutes while chilling in the fridge.
- Heat up that grill to medium-high. Get rid of the leftover marinade and pop the chicken legs onto the grill.
- Cook them for 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them now and then until cooked through with a tasty char.
- Serve them while hot and watch as everyone loves the juicy kicks of flavor.
BBQ Grilled Chicken Legs
Who doesn’t love a good BBQ chicken leg? It’s all about turning up the smoky grill flavor with that sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Here’s how you can whip up these BBQ beauties:
Ingredients:
- Chicken legs: 4 pieces
- BBQ sauce: 1 cup
- Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Fire up the grill to medium. Spice up the chicken legs with some salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Stir together the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt in a bowl—that’s your magic sauce.
- Grill the legs for about 10-12 minutes on each side, lathering on the BBQ sauce during the last leg of cooking.
- Keep grilling until they’re done, and let that sauce get a nice caramelized touch.
- Serve those BBQ chicken legs hot, with your favorite sides ready for a delicious spread.
Grilled chicken legs aren’t just a meal; they’re a surefire way to please at a family dinner or barbecue bash. Whether you’re going for the marinated wonder or the classic BBQ, these recipes pack a punch with a juicy flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Skillet Chicken Leg Recipes
Whipping up chicken legs? Try a skillet for an extra tasty twist. Whether you’re feeling citrusy or craving something spicy, skillet chicken leg recipes got you covered. Let’s check out two that’ll surely wow your family and friends:
Lemon Garlic Skillet Chicken Legs
Lemon and garlic have been best pals in the kitchen forever. They make chicken legs taste downright fancy. The lemon’s zing and garlic’s savory charm come together in perfect harmony.
What You’ll Need:
- 4 Chicken legs
- 1/4 cup Lemon juice
- 4 Garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How To Make It:
- Get your chicken legs all cozy with some salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in your skillet on medium.
- In go the chicken legs! Brown ‘em up nicely on all sides.
- Toss in the minced garlic and let its fragrance do its thing.
- Pour in that lemon juice and let it simmer.
- Cover up the skillet and cook until the chicken’s perfect and the sauce is nice and thick.
- Sprinkle some parsley on top, and you’re ready to serve.
Spicy Skillet Chicken Legs
Got a thing for spice? This one’s for you. These spicy skillet chicken legs pack a punch of heat with just the right mix of spices to keep your taste buds buzzing.
What You’ll Need:
- 4 Chicken legs
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
How To Make It:
- Mix up the chili powder, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Rub this spicy goodness all over the chicken legs.
- Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pop those seasoned chicken legs in the skillet and let them get all golden and delicious on all sides.
- Turn the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and let those legs cook through.
- Dish it up while it’s hot and savor the spice.
Cooking chicken legs in a skillet is a fast and flavorful way to whip up a satisfying meal. Whether you’re diving into the bright, lemon-garlic combo or stepping into the spicy territory, these recipes are bound to be kitchen keepers. Looking for more chicken love? Check out our article on the best chicken recipes.
Slow Cooker Chicken Leg Recipes
Slow cooker chicken leg recipes let you kick back while the magic happens. Juicy, fall-off-the-bone goodness with little effort? Yes, please! Sink your teeth into these two scrumptious slow-cooked delights: Teriyaki Chicken Legs and Creamy Chicken Legs.
Slow Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Legs
Think salty-savory mixed with a whisper of sweetness—Teriyaki Chicken Legs dance the perfect waltz of flavor in your slow cooker. The sauce works its charm, wrapping each leg in deep, finger-licking umami.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken legs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnishing
Instructions:
- In your slow cooker’s pot, mix the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and minced garlic.
- Toss the chicken legs into the mix, making sure they’re soaking up all that goodness.
- Set it and forget it! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or crank it up to high for 3-4 hours.
- Just before digging in, sprinkle with sesame seeds and fresh green onions for that final flavor pop.
Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Legs
For those days when you’re craving a hug on a plate, Creamy Chicken Legs got you. Tender chicken snuggled in a velvety sauce—this one’s the ultimate comfort.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken legs
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- Salt, pepper, and herbs to taste
Instructions:
- Dust the chicken legs with salt, pepper, and your go-to herbs.
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker.
- Lay those seasoned legs into the pool of creamy goodness.
- Let it simmer away on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours till you get that perfect saucy comfort.
- Serve with your fave sides and relish in every creamy, biteful moment.
Slow cooker chicken legs are your ticket to a hassle-free, dreamy dinner. Swooning over that Teriyaki tang or loving the comfort of creamy sauce, these recipes will be nightly hits. Go wild with the spices and make every dinner taste like a masterpiece!
FAQ
What goes well with chicken legs?
Roasted Beet and Watermelon Salad with Goat Cheese is one of 26 simple sides for chicken drumsticks.
- Pasta paired with coconut milk.
- Soft Mushrooms…
- On the stovetop, jasmine rice…
- Skewers of grilled vegetables…
- Rice with Cilantro and Lime.
- Salad with Chickpeas.
- Recipe for Jollof Rice.
Should I bake chicken legs covered or uncovered?
Our preference is to bake the chicken legs uncovered at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 40 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit when a meat thermometer is inserted into the thickest section of the drumstick.
Is it better to bake chicken legs at 350 or 400?
The usual rule is that the larger the meat the lower the temperature. So, 350 for the chicken, 375 for the boneless skinless chicken breasts, and 400 for the legs.
Is it better to boil or bake chicken legs?
If you boil the chicken legs before you grill or roast them, you will find the outside of the legs to be flavorful and crispy while the meat inside is perfectly tender and ready to fall off the bone. Can you boil chicken legs from frozen? Yes, frozen chicken legs can be boiled.