Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. This high heat is essential for achieving that crispy skin that we all love. While the oven is heating, gather your ingredients and get ready to season.
- In a small bowl, add ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil along with 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, 1-½ teaspoons kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Mix them together to create a flavorful paste that will coat the chicken.
- Take the 8 chicken legs and place them in a large mixing bowl or directly on your baking sheet. Rub the spiced oil mixture thoroughly over all the chicken legs, ensuring they’re well coated. This step is key; don’t rush it!
- Once coated, arrange the legs on a sheet pan in a single layer. Make sure they have a bit of space between them for even cooking. This promotes that delicious crispy texture we’re after.
- Now, pop the chicken legs into your preheated oven and roast for about 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, you’ll notice the skin turning a beautiful golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
- To check if they’re done, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees F. This ensures that your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- When cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and juicy.
- Finally, plate your Roasted Chicken Legs and enjoy! You can serve them with your choice of sides, whether it's a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes.
Notes
Here are some helpful tips for your Roasted Chicken Legs:
- Storage: To store leftovers, place the chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken legs. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Pairing: Roasted Chicken Legs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, creamy mashed potatoes, or seasonal roasted vegetables.
- Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken legs a day in advance. This will enhance the flavor and save preparation time on the day you plan to serve them.
- Cooking in Batches: If you are cooking for a larger group, feel free to double the recipe. Just ensure your oven has enough space for multiple sheet pans.
- Seasoning Variations: Don’t hesitate to try different seasoning blends. Mexican, Cajun, or even a simple garlic herb mix can add a new twist to the classic recipe.