Baked chicken legs are a juicy, flavourful, and fuss-free meal option that can be easily customised with different marinades and seasonings. Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, or savory, these six baked chicken leg recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Each recipe below is broken down into simple steps and includes helpful tips to get that perfect crispy finish and bold flavour in every bite.

chicken leg recipes

1. Honey Mustard Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1.5 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 4 chicken drumsticks

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. In a small bowl, mix Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels.
  4. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken legs.
  5. Place the chicken legs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.

Tips:

  • For extra caramelization, broil the chicken for the last 3 minutes.
  • Marinate the chicken in the sauce for an hour before baking for deeper flavor.

2. Italian Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp Italian dressing
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 4 chicken drumsticks

Instructions:

  1. Combine the Italian dressing with garlic powder and onion powder.
  2. Toss the chicken legs in the mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  4. Bake on a rack over a baking sheet for 40 minutes, flipping once.

Tips:

  • Use a wire rack for even heat distribution and crispier skin.
  • You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before baking for added flavor.

3. Spicy Buffalo Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

  • 3 tbsp buffalo sauce
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 chicken drumsticks

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Mix buffalo sauce, paprika, and black pepper in a bowl.
  3. Toss chicken legs to coat thoroughly.
  4. Bake on a parchment-lined tray for 35–40 minutes until cooked and lightly charred.

Tips:

  • For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne.
  • Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip.

READ MORE: Healthy Chicken Marinade Recipes >>>

4. Curry-Spiced Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1.5 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 4 chicken drumsticks

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix olive oil with curry powder, chili powder, and cumin.
  2. Rub the mix generously onto the chicken legs.
  3. Let the chicken marinate for 1 hour (optional for stronger flavor).
  4. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 40 minutes.

Tips:

  • Pair with coconut rice or mint yogurt dip.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice after baking for a fresh zing.

5. Teriyaki Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 4 chicken drumsticks

Instructions:

  1. Combine soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
  2. Toss the chicken legs and let them marinate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  4. Place marinated chicken on a baking tray and bake for 35–40 minutes.

Tips:

  • Baste the chicken with remaining marinade halfway through for a glossy finish.
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions before serving.

6. Garlic Herb Chicken Legs

Ingredients:

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh finely chopped)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 chicken drumsticks

Instructions:

  1. Mix garlic powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, and olive oil.
  2. Rub the mix thoroughly onto the chicken.
  3. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  4. Bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tips:

  • Fresh herbs elevate the flavor—use if available.
  • Add a small knob of butter on top of each leg before baking for richness.

Final Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Legs

  • Always Pat Dry: Moisture on the skin can prevent proper crisping. Use paper towels to pat chicken legs dry before seasoning.
  • Use a Wire Rack: Elevating chicken on a rack allows air to circulate, giving even cooking and crisp skin.
  • Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 75°C (165°F).
  • Resting Time: Let chicken rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute.
  • Customize: Mix and match these marinades or create your own using your favorite herbs, spices, and sauces.

Baked chicken legs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—simple to prepare, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable to suit your taste. Try these six flavor-packed baked chicken leg recipes and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal any day of the week!

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