Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner idea that will satisfy the whole family? Look no further than our Oven-Fried Chicken Legs recipe! These crispy and flavorful chicken legs are baked to perfection in the oven, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a favorite. With a perfect blend of seasonings and a crispy coating, these chicken legs are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken without sacrificing flavor. Join us as we dive into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Ingredients:
- 12 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Oil spray
Seasoning for the Chicken:
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons onion powder
- 5 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 4 1/2 tablespoons plain/all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, flour, and baking powder. Mix well to combine.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture over all sides of the chicken, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange on the Rack:
- Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks on the prepared wire rack, leaving space between each piece for air circulation.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked through, remove the chicken legs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice it Up: Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Add more paprika for extra heat or sprinkle with cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the chicken by adding dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour, and omit the baking powder. Use a keto-friendly oil spray for coating the wire rack.
- Low-Carb: Reduce the carb content by omitting the flour altogether and simply seasoning the chicken with the spice mixture. Bake as directed for a low-carb alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks? A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may require slightly longer to cook through.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: While the chicken is best served fresh out of the oven for optimal crispiness, you can prepare the seasoning mixture and coat the chicken in advance. Store the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover oven-fried chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving.
Q: Can I freeze cooked chicken legs? A: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken legs for up to 2-3 months. Allow them to cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Our Oven-Fried Chicken Legs recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy coating and juicy, tender meat, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, these chicken legs are guaranteed to impress. Give this recipe a try and elevate your dinner game with the irresistible flavor of oven-fried goodness!
