Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! Chicken legs are a staple in many households, but they can get repetitive. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 20 mouth-watering and easy-to-make chicken leg recipes that will elevate your meal game.
From classic comfort food to international flavors, our recipes cater to all tastes. Whether you’re a fan of sweet and savory or spicy and smoky, there’s something on this list for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cultures and cuisines through these 20 flavor-packed chicken leg recipes.
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with some of our favorite dishes, including Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs, Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Legs, Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Legs, and many more. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs
Moist and aromatic, this recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the simplicity of baked chicken legs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Legs
Sweet and Savory Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Legs Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken legs with this simple yet impressive recipe! This honey soy glaze adds a sticky, caramel-like coating that’s perfect for game day gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic until smooth.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and brush the glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the zesty brightness of lemon zest with the savory warmth of black pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, black pepper, and garlic.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Place chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over the chicken.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Legs
Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Legs Recipe
Get ready for a mouthwatering twist on traditional fried chicken – this oven-fried version is just as crispy and delicious, with much less mess!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs (thighs and drumsticks)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken leg into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured legs into buttermilk, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Enjoy your crispy oven-fried chicken legs!
Spicy BBQ Grilled Chicken Legs
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken! This spicy BBQ recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup Spicy BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Spicy BBQ Sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust heat level to your liking by adding more or less Spicy BBQ Sauce.
– Serve with coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.
Herb and Garlic Slow Cooker Chicken Legs
This recipe is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a deliciously aromatic and tender dish. With just a few minutes of prep time, you’ll be rewarded with fall-off-the-bone chicken legs infused with the savory flavors of herbs and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken legs in the slow cooker and sprinkle the garlic mixture evenly over them.
4. Pour in the chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Pineapple
Sweet and Savory Teriyaki Chicken Legs with Pineapple
Satisfy your cravings with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of Asia and the Caribbean! Tender chicken legs smothered in a sticky teriyaki sauce, served with juicy pineapple rings – it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add chicken legs and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with vegetable oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, place pineapple chunks on the baking sheet and toss to coat with any remaining marinade.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-35 minutes
Paprika and Rosemary Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the perfect blend of smoky paprika and herbaceous rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and chopped rosemary.
4. Place the chicken legs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the paprika-rosemary mixture evenly onto the chicken legs, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Mustard Baked Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and mustard to create a mouthwatering glaze for baked chicken legs. The result is a sweet, tangy, and crispy treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, and thyme until smooth.
3. Place chicken legs in a shallow baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the maple-mustard glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Five-Spice Asian Chicken Legs
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic chicken legs, infused with the warm spices of Asia.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons five-spice powder (see note)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
- Add the chicken legs and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Note: Five-spice powder typically includes cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns. You can adjust the amount to your taste.
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted chicken leg recipe. A perfect combination of crunchy breading and tender chicken, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together olive oil and garlic.
4. Dip each chicken leg into the olive oil mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the bold flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these marinated chicken legs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken legs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Legs
This recipe brings the bold flavors of Jamaica to your kitchen with a simple and aromatic jerk seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these chicken legs are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Place chicken legs in a shallow dish and brush the jerk mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Remove from oven and squeeze lime juice over the chicken (optional).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season chicken legs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Place chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun Spiced Air Fryer Chicken Legs
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Cajun Spiced Air Fryer Chicken Legs recipe. This dish combines the bold flavors of Louisiana with the convenience of air frying for a deliciously spicy treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse chicken legs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of chicken legs with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken legs.
6. Place the chicken legs in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
7. Cook for 20-22 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and roasted chicken. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, and thyme.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and brush the garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken legs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs in a single layer.
7. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Legs
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Legs Recipe
This recipe combines the sweet and spicy flavors of chili flakes with the brightness of lime juice, perfect for a twist on traditional chicken legs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup chili flakes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili flakes, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and toss with the chili-lime mixture until evenly coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken legs and toss again to combine.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange chicken legs on it.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Paprika and Thyme Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken legs game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the smokiness of paprika with the earthy goodness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika and thyme.
3. Remove any giblets from the chicken legs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush the chicken legs with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Sprinkle the paprika-thyme mixture evenly over the chicken legs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Sugar and Soy Glazed Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sticky and aromatic brown sugar and soy glazed chicken legs recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and brush the glaze all over them, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Drizzle sesame oil over the chicken and toss to coat.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken legs on it.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Herb Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this effortless recipe that highlights the flavors of fresh herbs. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying tender, aromatic chicken legs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken legs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
4. Place the chicken legs in a large baking dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken legs for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken leg game with these 20 flavorful recipes! From classic comfort foods to international twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try garlic butter baked chicken legs, honey soy glazed chicken legs, or lemon pepper roasted chicken legs for a taste of home. Or go global with teriyaki chicken legs with pineapple, five-spice Asian chicken legs, or Jamaican jerk chicken legs. Whether you’re in the mood for crispy oven-fried, slow-cooked, or grilled, these recipes will inspire your next chicken leg adventure.
