Oven fried chicken legs are a perfect combination of crispy texture and juicy meat, offering the familiar comfort of traditional fried chicken without the excess oil. This healthier method uses the oven to achieve a crunchy, golden crust, while maintaining the tenderness of the chicken inside. With the right seasonings and cooking techniques, you can create an unforgettable dish that satisfies both your cravings and your health-conscious goals.
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken drumsticks (legs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
- Dip each chicken drumstick into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll the chicken in the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the flour sticks and forms a thick coating around the meat.
- Place the coated chicken legs onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter to help it crisp up during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken legs are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Halfway through cooking, flip the chicken legs to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
- Garnish with fresh parsley to add a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a crisp salad.
Enjoy this healthier oven fried chicken legs recipe, where crispy meets juicy, and flavor bursts in every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this dish will become a favorite in your kitchen!