Craving crispy chicken that’s both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than our Easy Oven Fried Chicken Legs recipe. A classic favorite in Southern kitchens, these chicken legs are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a casual weekday meal. With the right balance of spices and crunch, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the satisfying crunch of fried chicken. However, the traditional frying method can be messy and time-consuming. Our Easy Oven Fried Chicken Legs recipe gives you the same delicious flavor and crispiness without the hassle. Inspired by Southern oven-fried chicken drumsticks, this dish is an effortless way to enjoy a classic favorite with minimal preparation.
Cooking chicken legs in the oven is not only healthier than deep frying but also more convenient. Plus, this method results in fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks in the oven that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Whether you’re looking for easy chicken drumstick recipes or want to learn how to make your fried chicken crispy in the oven, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks: Skin-on for extra crispiness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: For a light coating. If you prefer no flour, try using cornmeal or panko breadcrumbs.
- 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds color and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon salt: To taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for best results.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional, for a bit of heat.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: For drizzling over the chicken.
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano: For added flavor.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Marinate chicken for extra tenderness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: To brush on the baking sheet.
Instructions
Preparation
- 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. This setup helps the chicken cook evenly and keeps it crispy.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin. Optionally, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for 1-2 hours in the fridge for extra tenderness.
Coating and Baking
- Season the Flour: In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each drumstick in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Arrange on Rack: Place the coated drumsticks on the wire rack. Drizzle melted butter evenly over the top of each drumstick to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. Turn the drumsticks halfway through to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- Rest and Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and delicious.
Tips and Variations
Cooking Tips
- Keep Chicken Crispy: To keep fried chicken crispy in the oven, avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure the oven is preheated properly. The wire rack setup allows hot air to circulate, crisping the skin.
- Adjust Cooking Time: How long to cook chicken legs in the oven can vary based on size and thickness. Always check for doneness with a thermometer.
Variations
- No Flour Option: For easy oven-fried chicken legs without flour, substitute with panko breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
- Extra Crispy: For extra crispy chicken, double-dip the drumsticks by coating them in flour, then dipping them in buttermilk, and then coating them in flour again before baking.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning for unique flavor profiles.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (1 Drumstick)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Our Easy Oven Fried Chicken Legs recipe is a delicious and hassle-free way to enjoy the classic taste of fried chicken. With its crispy exterior and juicy interior, it’s a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you choose to add a bit of heat or keep it simple, these drumsticks are versatile and customizable to suit your taste.