Golden Crispy Ovenbaked Chicken Legs

Golden & Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Legs: Pub Grub Done Right!
Ever get that craving for proper pub grub, but can't be bothered to leave the house? Me too! This oven baked chicken legs recipe is the answer.
It gives you that succulent, flavourful chicken, with that seriously crispy skin, all from your own kitchen.
Quick & Easy Chicken Leg Recipe
This ain't your nan's complicated Sunday roast. It's a chicken leg recipe that's straight to the point. Think classic pub grub flavours.
Imagine tender, juicy baked chicken drumsticks that practically fall off the bone.
From Pub to Your Plate: A Simple Chicken Dinner
Chicken legs are a budget friendly staple across the UK. The origin of baking them stems from the traditional approach to roasting chicken pieces.
Our easy recipe takes only around 50 minutes, start to finish. This recipe easily feeds a family of four.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Recipe
This recipe isn't just easy; it's proper tasty! These oven baked chicken legs are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavour.
Plus, it's a healthier alternative to deep fried options! Perfect for a weeknight dinner ideas , these garlic roasted chicken legs go down a treat with everyone.
It also offers a lot of value for money making it one of the best budget friendly meals .
Now, let's gather our bits and bobs, yeah? Here's what you'll need to create the best baked chicken drumsticks you've ever tasted.
Golden & Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Legs: Pub Grub Done Right!
Fancy some proper pub grub without leaving the house? This oven baked chicken legs recipe is a total winner. Honestly, it's so simple, even a beginner cook can nail it.
Plus, the crispy chicken skin is seriously addictive. Let’s get started.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's the lowdown on what you need to make this easy chicken recipe a reality. Trust me, nothing fancy needed.
Main Ingredients
- 4 Chicken legs (about 6-8 oz / 170-225g each), skin on
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil ( 30ml )
Quality matters, especially with chicken. Look for legs that are plump and have a healthy pink colour. Avoid anything that looks pale or feels slimy.
Sensational Seasonings
This is where the magic happens. A great chicken seasoning makes all the difference.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder ( 5ml )
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder ( 5ml )
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika ( 5ml )
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried thyme ( 2.5ml )
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried rosemary ( 2.5ml ), crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt ( 2.5ml ), or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper ( 1.25ml ), or to taste
Don't have everything? No stress. Italian seasoning works great instead of thyme and rosemary. Or, sub chili powder for smoked paprika if you want a different kick.
Get Your Gear Sorted
You don't need a fancy kitchen to make amazing oven fried chicken . Just the basics will do.
Essential Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Instant read thermometer
Household Hacks
Don't have a baking sheet? A roasting pan will work just fine. And if you're lacking a mixing bowl, any big bowl will do the trick.
The important thing is getting those baked chicken drumsticks in the oven.
Benefits of this Recipe
This is an easy chicken recipe that won't break the bank. It’s a great budget friendly meal for a quick weeknight dinner.
Plus, you can customize the seasonings to suit your taste. This is pub grub at its finest and it is a great option for family dinner ideas .
I remember the first time I made this. I was so nervous about getting the crispy chicken skin right. But honestly, it's foolproof! Just make sure to pat the chicken legs dry before seasoning.
The dryer they are, the crispier they get. And don't forget that the oven temperature for chicken is key. It is like a fool chicken leg recipe .
Golden & Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Legs : Pub Grub Done Right!
Fancy some proper pub grub but can't be arsed to go out? Sorted! This chicken leg recipe gives you juicy, flavourful baked chicken drumsticks with crispy chicken skin , straight from your oven.
It’s an easy chicken recipe , perfect for a weeknight dinner idea or a relaxed Sunday roast. Honestly, it's so simple chicken recipe , even a beginner cook recipe can nail it! Let's get cracking with these garlic roasted chicken legs !
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
First things first, mise en place is key, darling! Get all your ingredients measured and ready. This will save you time and stress later.
For time saving magic, line your baking sheet with foil less washing up, result! And, of course, remember the safety bit.
Wash your hands after handling raw chicken , yeah?
step-by-step Process: Cracking On!
- Preheat your oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Pat those chicken legs dry with paper towels. This is crucial for crispy chicken skin !
- Mix your chicken seasoning ! In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 teaspoon garlic powder , 1 teaspoon onion powder , 1 teaspoon smoked paprika , 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme , 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary , 1/2 teaspoon salt , and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper .
- Coat the chicken in the glorious mixture. Make sure every bit is covered.
- Lay the chicken legs on your baking sheet, not too close together.
- Bake for 40- 45 minutes . Check the internal temperature with an instant read thermometer . You want 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving. This makes it even more juicy chicken !
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Bird
Want next level oven fried chicken ? Try this: Crank up the heat to 425° F ( 220° C) for the last 5- 10 minutes for extra crispy chicken skin .
But keep an eye on it! A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which makes the chicken steam instead of crisp.
make-ahead option? Absolutely! Mix the chicken marinade or chicken rub beforehand and store in the fridge. This is an easy chicken recipe so you can make anytime.
These oven baked chicken legs are a treat. Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a family dinner idea .
Or even coleslaw for a pub grub feel. Enjoy the simple baked chicken dinner !
Recipe Notes for the Best Oven Baked Chicken Legs
Alright, so you're about to make some seriously good oven baked chicken legs . Before you dive in, let's go over a few handy tips and tricks to ensure your chicken leg recipe is a total winner! This is gonna be a doddle.
Plating Like a Pro and Killer Sides
Presentation matters, innit? A pile of golden and crispy oven baked chicken legs looks great on a platter. Sprinkle with some fresh herbs, like parsley or rosemary.
For the full pub grub experience, serve them straight from the baking sheet !
As for sides, think mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic combo. Coleslaw always works too for a crunchy contrast.
Or, if you're feeling fancy, a simple salad with a vinaigrette. And obviously, a good chicken sides is always welcome.
A nice beverage also is a winner.
Storing Your Chicken Legs Like a Boss
Got leftovers? No worries! Let the baked chicken drumsticks cool completely. Then, pop them in an airtight container and stick them in the fridge.
They'll be good for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Honestly, the best way to bake chicken is to eat it fresh, but leftovers are alright too!
Mix It Up: Variations on a Theme of Chicken
Fancy a change? For a low carb chicken recipe , serve these easy chicken recipe with a big green salad and skip the potatoes.
Or, for a bit of sunshine in winter, add some orange zest to the chicken marinade or chicken rub . You could even try swapping the dried thyme and rosemary for some herbes de Provence.
Quick Look: Nutrition Basics
Each serving of these oven fried chicken legs is roughly 350 calories. They’re packed with about 35g of protein, which is great for muscle building and keeping you full.
You also get around 20g of fat and just 2g of carbs. It is a healthy chicken recipe that can be fitted in various diets.
This simple chicken recipe is easier than you think, right? You will get very juicy, very quickly, fall off-the-bone chicken every time! With these tips, you're ready to rock those chicken dinner ideas .
Go on, give it a go!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my oven baked chicken legs are crispy, not soggy?
The key to crispy oven baked chicken legs is to remove as much moisture as possible before cooking. Pat the chicken legs completely dry with paper towels before adding any seasoning.
Also, don't overcrowd the baking sheet; the chicken needs space for the hot air to circulate and crisp up the skin, otherwise, you'll end up steaming them instead! Try spacing them evenly, this ensures they bake and not steam.
What temperature should I bake my chicken legs at and for how long?
For this recipe, we recommend baking the chicken legs at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes. However, the most important thing is to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using an instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the leg.
Ovens can vary, so use the temperature as a guide, but the thermometer is your best friend to avoid serving undercooked chicken nobody wants a dodgy tummy!
Can I season my oven baked chicken legs ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, seasoning your chicken legs a few hours or even overnight in the fridge can really enhance the flavour. Just make sure to keep them properly covered. Think of it like marinating a Sunday roast the day before it gives the flavours a chance to properly sink in, so it's worth doing for a great result.
How long can I store leftover oven baked chicken legs?
Leftover oven baked chicken legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they've cooled down completely before refrigerating them. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving. They are perfect to add cold to salads too.
Can I add any variations to these oven baked chicken legs?
Definitely! This recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of flavour combinations. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chilli flakes to the seasoning. Or, for a BBQ twist, brush them with your favourite BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking time.
Get creative and have fun experimenting with your favourite herbs and spices!
Are oven baked chicken legs a healthy meal?
Oven baked chicken legs can be a relatively healthy option as they are a good source of protein. Be mindful of the sodium content from added salt. To make it even healthier, serve them with plenty of vegetables and opt for smaller portions to balance your overall calorie intake.
Golden Crispy Ovenbaked Chicken Legs

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 0g |