Chicken legs are a versatile and budget-friendly cut of meat that can be transformed into countless delicious dishes with just a few simple ingredients.
Baking chicken legs in the oven is an easy way to achieve crispy, juicy results without the need for frying.
Whether you’re craving something sweet and tangy, spicy, or herb-infused, there’s a baked chicken leg recipe for every palate.
In this article, we’ve compiled over 25 mouthwatering oven-baked chicken leg recipes that will elevate your weeknight dinners and impress your family and friends.
From smoky paprika and honey Sriracha to creamy Parmesan and Italian herb, these recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and are perfect for any occasion.
25+ Irresistible Oven-Baked Chicken Leg Recipes for Every Taste
With over 25 oven-baked chicken leg recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for flavorful and satisfying dinners.
Whether you prefer the bold heat of Buffalo-style legs, the rich sweetness of honey Sriracha, or the aromatic herbs of Italian herb-coated chicken, there’s a recipe to suit every taste.
These recipes not only simplify meal preparation but also ensure that your chicken legs come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some of the best chicken legs you’ve ever had!
Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Legs
Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Legs offer a delightful combination of crunchy, flavorful skin and tender, juicy meat. Coated with a blend of herbs and breadcrumbs, these chicken legs provide a satisfying crunch and an aromatic herb flavor that’s sure to impress at any dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, pepper, and salt.
- Brush the chicken legs with olive oil.
- Dip each chicken leg into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
Crispy Herb-Crusted Baked Chicken Legs are a fantastic choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The herb and Parmesan coating adds a delicious crunch and a burst of savory flavor to the tender chicken. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a delightful alternative to fried chicken while still delivering the crispy texture everyone loves. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and enjoyable meal.
Honey Mustard Glazed Baked Chicken Legs
Honey Mustard Glazed Baked Chicken Legs feature a sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This recipe combines the richness of honey with the sharpness of mustard, creating a deliciously balanced flavor that pairs perfectly with baked chicken legs.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Place the chicken legs in a baking dish and brush them with the honey mustard glaze.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized and slightly sticky.
- Baste the chicken with the glaze halfway through cooking for extra flavor.
Honey Mustard Glazed Baked Chicken Legs offer a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a beautifully caramelized glaze. The combination of honey and mustard creates a rich and flavorful coating that enhances the baked chicken legs. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their savory dishes and makes for a perfect family meal or special occasion dish. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or rice for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Spicy BBQ Baked Chicken Legs
Spicy BBQ Baked Chicken Legs are perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their barbecue flavors. Coated with a spicy BBQ sauce and baked to perfection, these chicken legs offer a smoky, tangy taste with a kick that will satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (spicy or mild, depending on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken legs with a light coat of olive oil.
- Toss the chicken legs in the spicy BBQ sauce mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is caramelized and slightly sticky.
Spicy BBQ Baked Chicken Legs offer a robust and fiery flavor that makes for an exciting and satisfying meal. The combination of spicy BBQ sauce and smoky paprika provides a bold taste that pairs perfectly with the tender, baked chicken. This recipe is ideal for barbecue lovers and those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes. Serve with coleslaw or cornbread for a true barbecue feast that will leave everyone craving more.
Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Legs
Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Legs offer a bright and zesty flavor profile with a hint of garlic that infuses the chicken with a deliciously aromatic taste. The combination of lemon juice and garlic creates a refreshing and savory dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken legs with the lemon garlic mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.
Lemon Garlic Baked Chicken Legs deliver a refreshing and savory flavor that is both satisfying and simple to prepare. The zesty lemon and aromatic garlic create a delightful taste that enhances the chicken legs without overpowering them. This recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful meal and pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy the burst of citrus and garlic in every bite!
Teriyaki Baked Chicken Legs
Teriyaki Baked Chicken Legs bring a taste of Japan to your dinner table with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. The rich, umami flavors of soy sauce and ginger combine to create a deliciously sticky coating that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, rice vinegar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
- Brush the chicken legs with a light coat of the teriyaki glaze.
- Place the coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through cooking.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Teriyaki Baked Chicken Legs offer a deliciously sweet and savory experience with their sticky teriyaki glaze. The combination of teriyaki sauce, honey, and ginger creates a rich and flavorful coating that enhances the chicken. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the distinctive flavors of Asian cuisine and makes for a great dinner option. Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Mediterranean Baked Chicken Legs
Mediterranean Baked Chicken Legs feature a blend of Mediterranean herbs and spices that infuse the chicken with vibrant and aromatic flavors. This recipe combines ingredients like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs to create a flavorful dish that’s both hearty and healthy.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/4 cup pitted olives, sliced (black or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken legs with the Mediterranean mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Arrange the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden brown.
Mediterranean Baked Chicken Legs offer a flavorful twist on a classic dish with their blend of Mediterranean herbs and ingredients. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and garlic creates a rich, aromatic taste that enhances the chicken legs beautifully. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy vibrant, savory flavors and makes a wonderful addition to a Mediterranean-themed meal. Serve with couscous or a fresh Greek salad for a complete and delicious dinner.
Maple Mustard Baked Chicken Legs
Maple Mustard Baked Chicken Legs offer a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a sticky, caramelized coating. The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a rich glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural juices, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken legs with the maple mustard glaze, making sure they are well coated.
- Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Maple Mustard Baked Chicken Legs are a delectable blend of sweet and tangy flavors that add a unique twist to your dinner routine. The rich maple syrup and zesty Dijon mustard create a luscious glaze that enhances the baked chicken’s taste. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a flavorful, yet simple, chicken dish that pairs well with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. Enjoy the deliciously sweet and tangy results with your family and friends.
Cajun Baked Chicken Legs
Cajun Baked Chicken Legs bring a bold, spicy flavor to your table with a zesty Cajun seasoning blend. The flavorful rub creates a crispy, spiced crust on the chicken, making each bite an exciting experience full of bold spices and savory goodness.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken legs with olive oil and then coat them evenly with the Cajun seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Cajun Baked Chicken Legs offer a vibrant and spicy flavor that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat. The Cajun seasoning rub creates a crispy, flavorful crust that enhances the chicken’s taste with bold spices. This recipe is ideal for adding a touch of Southern flair to your meal and pairs wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread. Enjoy the delicious kick of Cajun spices with every bite!
Balsamic Glazed Baked Chicken Legs
Balsamic Glazed Baked Chicken Legs feature a rich and tangy balsamic glaze that adds a sophisticated touch to your chicken dinner. The glaze caramelizes beautifully during baking, creating a glossy, flavorful coating that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken legs with the balsamic glaze, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through cooking, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Balsamic Glazed Baked Chicken Legs offer a sophisticated and flavorful twist with their rich balsamic glaze. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet honey creates a deliciously glossy coating that enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner when you want to impress with minimal effort. Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and elegant meal.
Smoky Paprika Baked Chicken Legs
Smoky Paprika Baked Chicken Legs are a flavorful and aromatic dish featuring a smoky, slightly spicy seasoning blend. The paprika adds a depth of flavor and a vibrant color, creating a savory and satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken legs with olive oil and then coat them evenly with the paprika seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Smoky Paprika Baked Chicken Legs offer a deliciously smoky and slightly spicy flavor that’s perfect for a comforting meal. The paprika seasoning not only adds depth to the dish but also creates a visually appealing golden color. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy bold flavors and makes a great pairing with sides like mashed potatoes or a simple green salad. Enjoy the savory and smoky goodness of this easy-to-make chicken dish!
Teriyaki Ginger Baked Chicken Legs
Teriyaki Ginger Baked Chicken Legs combine the sweet and savory notes of teriyaki sauce with the fresh zing of ginger. This recipe results in a flavorful and aromatic glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, offering a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken legs with the teriyaki ginger glaze, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through cooking, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Teriyaki Ginger Baked Chicken Legs bring a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors to your table. The fresh ginger and teriyaki glaze create a flavorful coating that enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness and offers a pleasing contrast of flavors. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy Asian-inspired dishes and pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables. Enjoy the delectable taste of this easy-to-make chicken dish!
Creamy Parmesan Baked Chicken Legs
Creamy Parmesan Baked Chicken Legs are a rich and indulgent option for a comforting meal. The creamy Parmesan coating creates a deliciously cheesy and savory crust that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Coat the chicken legs with the creamy Parmesan mixture, making sure they are thoroughly covered.
- Arrange the coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
Creamy Parmesan Baked Chicken Legs offer a rich and savory twist on traditional baked chicken. The creamy Parmesan coating adds a deliciously cheesy and satisfying crunch that enhances the chicken’s flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy indulgent, comforting meals and pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness of this easy-to-prepare chicken dish!
Honey Sriracha Baked Chicken Legs
Honey Sriracha Baked Chicken Legs combine the sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of Sriracha sauce, creating a flavorful and tangy glaze. This recipe results in a deliciously sticky and slightly spicy coating that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the honey, Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken legs with the honey Sriracha glaze, ensuring they are well coated.
- Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through cooking, until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Honey Sriracha Baked Chicken Legs offer a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors that make for a memorable meal. The honey provides a touch of sweetness while the Sriracha adds a spicy kick, resulting in a sticky, caramelized coating that enhances the chicken’s natural juices. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and pairs well with rice or a simple vegetable side. Enjoy the flavorful blend of sweetness and spice in every bite!
Italian Herb Baked Chicken Legs
Italian Herb Baked Chicken Legs are seasoned with a blend of classic Italian herbs, creating a fragrant and flavorful dish. This recipe brings together rosemary, thyme, and oregano to enhance the chicken’s taste, making it a versatile and delicious option for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken legs with olive oil and then coat them evenly with the Italian herb seasoning mixture.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Italian Herb Baked Chicken Legs are a flavorful and aromatic dish that highlights the classic taste of Italian herbs. The combination of rosemary, thyme, and oregano creates a savory crust that enhances the chicken’s natural flavors. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy herb-infused dishes and pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Enjoy the robust, herbaceous flavors of this easy-to-make chicken dish!
Buffalo Style Baked Chicken Legs
Buffalo Style Baked Chicken Legs bring the classic spicy and tangy flavors of Buffalo wings to baked chicken legs. The spicy Buffalo sauce adds a zesty kick, making these legs a flavorful and satisfying choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the Buffalo sauce, melted butter, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the chicken legs with the Buffalo sauce mixture, making sure they are thoroughly coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting with the sauce halfway through cooking, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is slightly caramelized.
Buffalo Style Baked Chicken Legs offer a spicy and tangy twist on traditional baked chicken, perfect for those who love the bold flavors of Buffalo wings. The combination of spicy Buffalo sauce and a touch of honey creates a deliciously sticky and flavorful coating. This recipe is great for game day or a casual dinner and pairs well with classic sides like celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. Enjoy the spicy kick and savory taste of these Buffalo-style chicken legs!
