Golden brown, juicy, and tender, these baked chicken legs are perfectly seasoned.
With only a 10-minute prep time, this flavorful chicken dish is easy to prepare for a weeknight meal.
In a few simple steps you can have a flavorful main dish that is keto, paleo, and whole30 approved.
Why you'll love this recipe
Perfect for meal prep, this savory recipe comes together with a blend of spices and a drizzle of oil.
Easy preparation and a quick cleanup make this recipe ideal for weeknights.
This delicious recipe will become a new favorite on your weekly meal rotation.
These baked chicken drumsticks will have your mouth watering.
A great option for informal gatherings or dinner parties, the simple spices in this recipe deliver a little extra kick.
This dish pairs well with our keto coleslaw, keto cornbread, and keto lemonade for a classic outdoor picnic.
If you enjoy simple meals packed with flavor, also try our Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole.
Recipe Ingredients
Chicken drumsticks - The tender and flavorful dark meat pairs beautifully with the spice mix in this aromatic dish.
Paprika - Peppery and earthy with a hint of sweetness.
Garlic Powder - Provides an earthy, pungent note.
Chili Powder - Aeromatic with a mild spice.
Onion Powder - Pairs well with garlic powder, adds a tangy quality.
Dried Oregano - Adds a savory herbed flavor to this dish.
Dried Thyme - Adds an earthy, somewhat bitter flavor.
Black Pepper - Provides a "biting" heat to this dish.
Salt - Balances and enhances the other spices.
Olive oil - To ensure the spice blend binds to the chicken.
Step by Step Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Combine all of the seasonings in a small bowl, mixing well.
Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over, tossing to coat.
Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the drumsticks and toss to coat.
Place in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until the chicken is cooked to at least 165F-175F. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
How best to serve
Serve with Whipped Potatoes, baked potatoes, Stewed Potatoes, or low-carb Keto Cauliflower Mac and Cheese.
Pair with traditional cornbread or Keto Cornbread.
Serve with Broccoli Salad, Sauteed Zuchinni, leafy greens topped with slices of avocado, such as arugula or baby kale, or pair with other keto friendly vegetables.
Best Recipe Tips
Allow chicken legs to sit out at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take the chill off prior to seasoning and baking.
If you would like extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken is completely dry before tossing the legs in oil and adding the spice blend. Dry the chicken legs with paper towels and then chill uncovered in the fridge for an hour. The cold air will finish drying out the chicken.
Pre-mix your herb and spice blend. This seasoning blend can be prepared and stored for quick and easy meal prep. We like to store our blend in an empty spice jar.
If you are looking for additional heat in this recipe, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to your spice blend.
Source quality chicken. Look for labels such as "antibiotic free," "air chilled," and "organic" at your local grocery store.
Line your sheet pan with parchment paper. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes for quick and easy cleanup.
Don't skip the oil. Rubbing the drumsticks with oil allows the spices to stick and improves the final taste and texture of this dish.
Storage Instructions
Fridge: Before storing, allow them to cool to room temperature then place in an airtight container. Ensure that the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture from getting in to maintain the quality and texture.
If you plan to eat within a day or two, store them in the fridge. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
Reheat: can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
Oven: Place in a single layer on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and into a 350 degrees Fahrenheit oven until heated through, which usually takes about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place your leftover drumsticks on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for two minutes, then for 30-second bursts until they are heated through.
Stovetop: Another option is to add 1-2 tablespoons of broth, or water into a saucepan or skillet. Place in a single layer in the pan and cover with a lid. Heat over medium-high until heated through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Check to ensure there is moisture in the pan, adding a few more teaspoons of liquid as needed to keep the chicken from sticking to the pan. This steam heat option will yield soft, moist Baked Chicken Legs when compared to reheating in the oven.
FAQ's
Is it better to bake chicken legs at 350 or 400 degrees?
Baking at 400 degrees will result in a crispier skin while the chicken still remains juicy.
Do you bake drumsticks covered or uncovered?
Always bake chicken uncovered. If you cover, the skin will be rubbery.
Can I use chicken thighs to make this recipe?
Most definitely. I would add 5 minutes of cook time. Always use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees.
Can I use different seasonings?
Please experiment with seasonings you like. Try dried rosemary or sage. Want more spice, use cayenne or red chili flakes.
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📖 Recipe
Baked Chicken Legs
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks 8 pieces
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. Combine the seasonings in a small bowl, mixing well.
- Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the drumsticks, tossing to coat.
- Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the chicken and toss to coat the drumsticks.
- Place chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through the cook time, until the chicken is cooked through to at least 165F-175F. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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