Crispy Chicken Legs (Easy Oven-Baked Recipe)

Crispy chicken legs baked in the oven are juicy inside with a golden crunch outside! Perfect for chicken legs recipes for dinner, even better if you love tandoori chicken flavor twists. Try this easy recipe tonight!

Why You’ll Love It

• Crispy skin without deep-frying.
• Budget-friendly and family-approved.
• Easy weeknight dinner idea.
• Works with different marinades like tandoori chicken seasoning.
• Perfect for meal prep—reheats beautifully.

Ingredients / What You’ll Need

• 6 chicken legs (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter for richness)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked works great)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)

Swap paprika with tandoori spice blend for a tandoori chicken recipe twist!

How to Make It

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels—dry skin = crispier skin.
3. Rub with oil and sprinkle seasoning mix all over chicken legs.
4. Place on baking sheet, leaving space between pieces.
5. Bake 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
6. Check internal temp (165°F / 74°C at thickest part).
7. Rest 5 minutes, then squeeze lemon juice before serving.

Pro Tips

• Always pat chicken legs super dry before seasoning.
• Use a wire rack over the sheet for max airflow + crisp.
• Add a spoon of baking powder to spices for extra crispy skin.
• For tandoori-style, marinate chicken in yogurt + spices overnight.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—space = crisp.

Variations & Substitutions

• Tandoori Chicken Legs → yogurt + tandoori spice blend + lemon.
• Honey Garlic Chicken Legs → brush with honey + soy sauce last 10 minutes.
• Spicy Kick → add cayenne or hot sauce to oil rub.
• Herb Lovers → rosemary, thyme, oregano mix.
• Air Fryer Version → cook at 390°F (200°C) for 25–28 minutes.

Storage & Reheat

• Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken legs up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes or air fryer 6 minutes.

What to Serve With It

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Fresh garden salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Rice pilaf or simple basmati rice

This crispy chicken legs recipe is pure comfort food—juicy, golden, and ready with pantry staples. Whether you’re craving classic roasted chicken legs in the oven or experimenting with a bold tandoori chicken recipe, this is a no-fail dinner option you’ll keep on repeat.

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