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Crispy Baked Chicken Legs

Golden, juicy oven baked chicken drumsticks with perfectly crispy skin, seasoned with simple pantry spices for an easy weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp baking powder aluminum-free

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on top.
  2. Pat chicken drumsticks completely dry with paper towels.
  3. Mix all seasonings and baking powder in a small bowl.
  4. Toss drumsticks with olive oil, then coat evenly with seasoning mixture.
  5. Arrange on wire rack with space between each piece.
  6. Bake 35–45 minutes, turning halfway, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Broil 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.
  8. Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, always pat chicken dry and use a wire rack during baking.