The JUICIEST CHICKEN LEGS RECIPE: Perfect Every Time, 10 Minutes Prep!

chicken drumsticks

🥗Healthier: skinless chicken thighs

💰Cheaper: chicken wings

Skinless thighs reduce fat, while wings are often less expensive.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, while vegetable oil is more budget-friendly.

paprika

🥗Healthier: smoked paprika

💰Cheaper: cayenne pepper

Smoked paprika adds flavor without extra calories, while cayenne is often cheaper.

black pepper

🥗Healthier: white pepper

💰Cheaper: black peppercorns

White pepper provides a different flavor profile, while whole black peppercorns can be ground as needed.

Grab a baking sheet and line it with foil for easier cleanup.

Use an oven-safe nonstick rack that fits into the baking sheet for extra crispiness.

Arrange the chicken legs on the rack in a single layer.

Pat the chicken drumsticks super dry with paper towels to reduce moisture.

Brush the chicken drumsticks with 1/4 cup of unsalted melted butter, flipping them over to coat both sides.

Season one side of the chicken with 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, reserving half of the seasonings for the other side.

Flip the chicken legs over and season the other side with the reserved seasonings.

Bake the chicken legs in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 25 minutes.

Remove the chicken from the oven and flip the legs over to cook the other side for even cooking.

Return the chicken legs to the oven at 425°F (220°C) for an additional 10 to 20 minutes until cooked through, checking for an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C) for juiciness.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: