10 Easy Baked Chicken Leg Recipes You Need to Try

Baked chicken legs are a fantastic option for quick and tasty meals, and they can be as simple or as creative as you want! Here are ten easy recipes that showcase juicy flavors and uncomplicated steps, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Get ready to enjoy some deliciousness!

Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Legs

Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken Legs are a crowd-pleaser that brings comforting flavors to your dinner table. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates a savory aroma that will have everyone eager for a taste. This recipe is simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Each bite offers juicy chicken legs with crispy skin, making them a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re serving them with sides or enjoying them solo, these chicken legs are sure to impress. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite seasonings!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs (drumsticks or thighs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Toss the chicken legs in the mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Sesame Seeds

If you’re looking for a delicious and simple way to spice up your dinner, Teriyaki Chicken Legs are a fantastic choice. These chicken legs are marinated in a savory teriyaki sauce, giving them a sweet and salty flavor that pairs perfectly with their juicy meat. Topped with sesame seeds and scallions, they not only taste great but also look appetizing on your plate!

This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. Just pop the chicken legs in the oven, and let the magic happen. You can serve them over rice or alongside your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the burst of flavors without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the teriyaki sauce with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken legs to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. In the last few minutes, sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken legs for a nice crunch.
7. Once done, take them out of the oven and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Spicy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Spicy BBQ chicken drumsticks are a delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite with a kick. These chicken legs are marinated in a zesty barbecue sauce that gives each bite a burst of flavor. Simple to make, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

The blend of spices and the sticky sweetness of the BBQ sauce create a wonderful contrast that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re grilling or baking, these drumsticks remain juicy and tender, making them one of the best baked chicken recipes around.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and toss until they are well coated with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the fridge for more flavor).
4. Place the marinated drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy. For extra caramelization, brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your spicy BBQ chicken drumsticks!

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Drumsticks

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious and easy way to enjoy chicken legs. This recipe features juicy chicken drumsticks coated in a crunchy, cheesy crust that gets nice and golden in the oven. The combination of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs gives each bite a satisfying crunch, making these drumsticks a hit at any dinner table.

Whether you’re serving them for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, these drumsticks are sure to please. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ve got a meal that feels gourmet without all the fuss. Ready to get cooking? Here’s a simple recipe to make these tasty treats!

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken drumstick in the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
4. Place the coated drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the drumsticks to help them crisp up.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs

Honey mustard glazed chicken thighs bring a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that are hard to resist. This simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for a weekend dinner with friends. The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, resulting in juicy chicken that bursts with flavor.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. Just marinate the chicken in a mixture of honey, mustard, and your favorite seasonings, then pop it in the oven. Serve it with some roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the honey mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful honey mustard glazed chicken thighs!

Mediterranean Chicken Leg Bake with Olives

This Mediterranean Chicken Leg Bake is a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor. The juicy chicken legs are infused with the rich tastes of olives, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, creating a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

The combination of savory olives and sweet cherry tomatoes adds a nice contrast, making each bite a little taste of the Mediterranean. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare—just toss everything together and let the oven do the work! Whether you’re looking for dinner ideas chicken drumsticks or simply want to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, this recipe fits the bill.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs
• 1 cup mixed olives (green and black)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large baking dish, place the chicken legs. Add the olives, cherry tomatoes, and minced garlic.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and vegetables. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything lightly to combine.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Garnish with fresh rosemary before serving. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!

Italian Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs

If you’re looking for a deliciously easy dinner, Italian Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs with aromatic herbs, creating a meal that’s both savory and satisfying. The infusion of Italian herbs gives the dish a wonderful flavor, making it a hit at family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also simple to make. With minimal prep and hands-off baking time, you can enjoy juicy chicken legs in the oven without the fuss. Serve it alongside some roasted veggies or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each chicken thigh with the herb mixture and place them in a baking dish.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Italian-inspired dinner!

Smoky Paprika and Cumin Chicken Legs

If you’re looking for a simple yet tasty dish, Smoky Paprika and Cumin Chicken Legs are a great choice. The smoky flavor from the paprika combined with the warmth of cumin creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, these chicken legs are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor.

This recipe is all about achieving juicy chicken legs in the oven, ensuring a crispy skin while keeping the meat tender. Pair them with roasted vegetables for a complete meal, or serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce for a fun twist. It’s a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, potatoes)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken legs and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Arrange the mixed vegetables around them.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Drumsticks

This Sweet and Sour Pineapple Chicken Drumsticks recipe balances the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of pineapple and tangy sauce. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The juicy chicken legs in the oven become infused with flavor, making every bite delicious.

The combination of pineapple, bell peppers, and a homemade sweet and sour sauce gives the dish a vibrant color and mouthwatering taste. It’s a fun way to enjoy chicken drumsticks that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ginger powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, honey, vinegar, ketchup, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Place the marinated chicken drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add pineapple chunks and bell pepper slices around the chicken.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice glaze.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Legs

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Legs are a delightful combination of zesty lemon, rich butter, and aromatic garlic. This simple dish bursts with flavor, making it a favorite for family dinners or weeknight meals. The buttery sauce beautifully caramelizes the chicken, creating a juicy inside and a golden exterior that everyone will love.

Preparing this recipe is easy and requires minimal effort, perfect for those busy evenings. Pair these chicken legs with your choice of sides, and you’ll have a gourmet meal right at home.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and rosemary.
3. Place the chicken legs in a baking dish and pour the butter mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
5. Garnish with lemon slices before serving. Enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Legs!