Baked Chicken Legs (with Best Marinade)

Easy baked chicken legs recipe with the best marinade – juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy! This simple oven-baked chicken drumsticks recipe is made with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and fresh herbs for a delicious, tender bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. Learn how to bake chicken legs to perfection with this foolproof method. Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 lbs (about 14) chicken legs or drumsticks
• 1/4 cup light olive oil (avoid extra virgin for best results)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
• 4 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3 Tbsp lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
• 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp fine sea salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken legs in a large mixing bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Gently work some of the marinade under the skin for deeper flavor. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight, tossing once for even marination.
3. Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the chicken skin-side down on the prepared sheet. Let the chicken sit at room temperature while the oven preheats. Brush with any leftover marinade.
4. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the center of the oven for 25 minutes. Flip the chicken legs over and bake for another 25 minutes, skin-side up, until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Crisp the Skin: For extra crispy skin, broil on high for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite sides.

---

Tips

• Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.
• Let the chicken come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Broiling at the end helps achieve a crispy, golden-brown skin.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp smoked paprika or 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper.
• Herb Alternative: Swap parsley for cilantro or rosemary for a different flavor.
• Citrus Twist: Substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a unique taste.
• Honey Mustard: Add 1 Tbsp honey for a touch of sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of legs?
Yes! Adjust the baking time as needed—thighs may require a few extra minutes.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I grill these instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or grilled corn on the cob.
• Drizzle with a garlic butter sauce for extra richness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Flavorful: Simple ingredients create an incredibly tasty dish.
• Crispy and Juicy: The perfect balance of texture and moisture.
• Versatile: Works with different seasonings and cooking methods.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make ahead and enjoy throughout the week.

Enjoy your perfectly baked chicken legs!