20 Delicious Chicken Legs Recipes for Dinner Tonight

Are you stuck in a dinner rut, staring at chicken legs wondering how to spice them up tonight? Look no further! We’ve rounded up 20 Delicious Chicken Legs Recipes that promise to turn your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering feast. From crispy baked delights to saucy slow-cooked comfort, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Let’s dive in and discover your next favorite dish!

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs

These Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs are a foolproof way to bring juicy, flavorful chicken to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and lemon juice.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this recipe lies in the garlic butter marinade that not only flavors the chicken but also keeps it incredibly moist. Perfect for when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Legs

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Legs

Get ready to fall in love with these Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Legs, where sweet meets tangy in the most delicious way possible.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until smooth.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with the honey mustard glaze, making sure to coat all sides.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized and sticky, brushing with additional glaze halfway through.

The magic of this recipe lies in the glaze’s perfect balance of sweetness and tang, creating a sticky, caramelized coating that’s irresistible. Serve these chicken legs with a side of roasted vegetables for a meal that’s both easy and impressive.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Spicy BBQ Chicken Legs

Spicy BBQ Chicken Legs

Get ready to fire up the grill with these Spicy BBQ Chicken Legs, a perfect blend of heat and sweetness that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken legs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tbsp hot sauce, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  3. Brush the chicken legs with half of the BBQ sauce mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
  4. Place the chicken legs on the grill and cook for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  5. Brush the remaining BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken legs and continue grilling for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The secret to these chicken legs is the double coating of sauce, which creates a sticky, caramelized exterior with a kick of heat that’s balanced by the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in those juicy flavors.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Legs

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Legs

There’s something irresistibly comforting about the zesty aroma of lemon herb roasted chicken legs filling your kitchen. This dish is a weeknight hero, offering juicy tenderness with a crispy, golden skin that’s packed with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over each piece, ensuring they’re well coated.
  4. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the skin is crispy and golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

The magic of this recipe lies in the lemon zest and juice, which not only tenderizes the chicken but also creates a bright, herbaceous crust that’s utterly addictive.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Legs

Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Legs

Who says you can’t have crispy, juicy fried chicken without the deep fryer? These oven-fried chicken legs are here to prove otherwise, with a golden crust that’s music to your ears.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (drumstick and thigh attached)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken leg in 1/2 cup buttermilk, then dredge in the flour mixture until fully coated.
  4. Place the coated chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tbsp melted butter.
  5. Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and crispy.

The secret to their irresistible crunch? A buttermilk soak ensures every bite is moist, while the butter drizzle gives that deep-fried crispiness without the oil.

Tip: For extra crispiness, place the chicken on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air to circulate all around.

Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Pineapple

Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Pineapple

Get ready to wow your taste buds with these succulent Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Pineapple, a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 1 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 1 cup teriyaki sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon ginger powder.
  3. Place the chicken legs in a large bowl and pour the teriyaki mixture over them, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  4. Transfer the chicken legs to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes.
  5. While the chicken is baking, toss 1 cup pineapple chunks with 2 tablespoons brown sugar in a bowl.
  6. After 35 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven, add the pineapple mixture around the chicken, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the pineapple is caramelized.
  7. Garnish with 1 tablespoon sesame seeds before serving.

The caramelized pineapple adds a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the rich teriyaki glaze, making every bite a delightful contrast of flavors.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try grilling the chicken legs instead of baking them. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs

Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs

Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with these Smoky Paprika Chicken Legs, a dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to create a paste.
  3. Rub the spice paste all over the chicken legs, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  4. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden.

The smoky paprika not only gives these chicken legs a deep, rich color but also infuses them with a warmth that’s perfectly balanced by the bright lemon juice.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, try using a mix of sweet and hot smoked paprika.

Maple Glazed Chicken Legs

Maple Glazed Chicken Legs

These Maple Glazed Chicken Legs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a sticky glaze that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs attached)
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and brush them generously with the maple glaze.
  4. Bake for 35 minutes, then brush with more glaze and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

The magic of this recipe lies in the double-glazing technique, which ensures each bite is packed with flavor and the skin turns irresistibly glossy.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze mixture.

Herb Crusted Chicken Legs

Herb Crusted Chicken Legs

These Herb Crusted Chicken Legs are a weeknight hero, offering a crispy, flavorful crust with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp rosemary, 1 tbsp thyme, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
  3. Rub the chicken legs with the herb mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
  4. In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Press each chicken leg into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides.
  5. Place the coated chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, until the crust is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

The magic here is in the double layer of flavor—herbs infuse the meat while the Parmesan-panko crust adds a satisfying crunch.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Chicken Legs with Mushroom Sauce

Chicken Legs with Mushroom Sauce

There’s something irresistibly comforting about chicken legs smothered in a rich mushroom sauce — it’s a weeknight dinner hero that feels a bit fancy without the fuss.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken legs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs, skin-side down, and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves. Return the chicken legs to the skillet, skin-side up.
  6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy mushroom sauce that clings to every bite of the tender chicken, making it a standout meal that’s as satisfying to eat as it is simple to make.

Tip: For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the mushrooms before the chicken broth.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs

These Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs are a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, with a sticky glaze that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs attached)
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet. Brush half of the balsamic glaze over the chicken, making sure to coat evenly.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven, brush with the remaining glaze, and return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

The magic of this dish lies in the double-glazing technique, which ensures each bite is packed with flavor and the skin is irresistibly glossy.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Legs

Parmesan Crusted Chicken Legs

Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these Parmesan Crusted Chicken Legs, a dish that combines crispy, cheesy goodness with juicy, tender meat.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken leg into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the Parmesan mixture.
  4. Place the coated chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil.
  5. Bake at 400°F for 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the chicken is cooked through.

The magic of this recipe lies in the golden, crispy Parmesan crust that locks in the chicken’s juices, making every bite irresistibly flavorful.

Tip: For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Chicken Legs with Garlic and Rosemary

Chicken Legs with Garlic and Rosemary

There’s something irresistibly comforting about chicken legs roasted with garlic and rosemary, a classic combo that never fails to delight.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick attached)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken legs in a baking dish and rub the olive oil mixture all over them, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.

The magic of this dish lies in the crispy skin and the way the garlic and rosemary infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors. Perfect for a cozy dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Sweet Chili Chicken Legs

Sweet Chili Chicken Legs

Get ready to fall in love with these Sweet Chili Chicken Legs, a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken legs
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  3. Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the sauce.
  4. Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
  5. Garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

The magic of this dish lies in the caramelized edges of the chicken, where the sweet chili sauce turns into a sticky, flavorful glaze that’s simply unforgettable.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha to the sauce mixture before coating the chicken.

Curry Spiced Chicken Legs

Curry Spiced Chicken Legs

These Curry Spiced Chicken Legs are a weeknight hero, offering a punch of flavor with minimal fuss. Perfect for when you’re craving something exotic but easy.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp curry powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper if using.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and rub the spice mixture all over them, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
  5. In the last 5 minutes of baking, drizzle 1 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp lemon juice over the chicken legs for a sticky, tangy finish.

The magic of this dish lies in the double hit of spices and sweetness, creating a crust that’s irresistibly crispy and flavorful.

Tip: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken legs in the spice mixture for an hour before baking.

Chicken Legs with Lemon Caper Sauce

Chicken Legs with Lemon Caper Sauce

These Chicken Legs with Lemon Caper Sauce are a zesty twist on a classic, perfect for spicing up your weeknight dinner routine.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Season the chicken legs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs, skin-side down, and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
  3. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
  4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. On the stovetop, over medium heat, add 1/2 cup chicken broth, 2 tablespoons capers, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir and simmer for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return the chicken to the skillet, turning to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley before serving.

The bright lemon and briny capers create a sauce that’s irresistibly tangy, making these chicken legs anything but ordinary.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken legs for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Jerk Seasoned Chicken Legs

Jerk Seasoned Chicken Legs

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these irresistibly flavorful Jerk Seasoned Chicken Legs, a dish that brings the vibrant taste of the Caribbean right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 scotch bonnet pepper, finely chopped (optional for extra heat)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp jerk seasoning, 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 cup orange juice, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme, and 1 finely chopped scotch bonnet pepper (if using). Mix well to create a marinade.
  3. Add the chicken legs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
  4. Arrange the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and slightly charred.

The magic of this recipe lies in the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, with a hint of smokiness that makes these chicken legs unforgettable.

Tip: For an authentic jerk flavor, try grilling the chicken legs over medium heat for those characteristic char marks and smoky taste.

Chicken Legs with Creamy Dijon Sauce

Chicken Legs with Creamy Dijon Sauce

These Chicken Legs with Creamy Dijon Sauce are a weeknight hero, combining juicy chicken with a tangy, rich sauce that comes together in no time.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken legs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs, skin-side down, and sear for 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for 3 minutes.
  3. Remove the skillet from heat. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme. Pour the mixture over the chicken legs, then add 1/4 cup chicken broth to the skillet.
  4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
  5. Serve the chicken legs hot, spooning the creamy Dijon sauce over the top. The sauce’s velvety texture and sharp mustard kick elevate the humble chicken leg to something truly special.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken legs for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Roasted Chicken Legs with Vegetables

Roasted Chicken Legs with Vegetables

Nothing beats the simplicity and heartiness of roasted chicken legs with vegetables, a dish that promises juicy meat and caramelized veggies in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick)
  • 2 cups baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 cup carrots, sliced into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken legs with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme until evenly coated.
  3. Arrange the chicken legs on one side of the prepared baking sheet.
  4. In the same bowl, toss the baby potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts with the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp dried thyme.
  5. Spread the vegetables on the other side of the baking sheet.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the vegetables are tender and caramelized.

The magic of this recipe lies in the one-pan approach, where the chicken juices mingle with the vegetables, creating layers of flavor that are both rustic and refined.

Tip: For extra crispiness, broil the chicken and vegetables for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Chicken Legs with Honey Soy Glaze

Chicken Legs with Honey Soy Glaze

These Chicken Legs with Honey Soy Glaze are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a sticky glaze that’s irresistible. Ideal for a weeknight dinner that feels a bit special.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken legs
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp salt.
  3. Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet and brush half of the honey soy glaze over them, making sure to coat evenly.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes, then brush with the remaining glaze and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.

The magic of this dish lies in the double glaze application, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and the perfect amount of sweetness. Serve with a side of steamed rice to soak up all that delicious glaze.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze before brushing it on the chicken.

Conclusion

With 20 mouthwatering chicken legs recipes at your fingertips, dinner tonight is sure to be a hit! Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, or savory, there’s a dish here for every palate. We’d love to hear which recipes become your favorites—drop us a comment below and don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest for fellow home cooks to enjoy. Happy cooking!

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