Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with Garlic Lemon
Looking for easy chicken leg recipes My herb roasted version is a winner Crispy skin juicy meat and bursting with flavor Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner Get the recipe now ... Comfort Food Classics
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy some proper Sunday dinner vibes? I've got you! This chicken leg recipes is a flavour BOMB with crispy skin, zingy lemon, and fragrant herbs. Honestly, it's the best.
Brief Overview
Inspired by the sunny flavours of the Mediterranean, this recipe is proper easy. It takes about an hour, including prep, with a bit of marinating time.
It makes four servings, perfect for a family dinner. I found that this recipe is really easy to follow and tastes awesome.
Main Benefits
This easy chicken leg dinner is packed with protein and healthy fats. It's brilliant for a casual get-together with mates.
What makes it special? The marinade, you know? It's so simple, but the flavours are just chef's kiss .
Let's talk ingredients, shall we?
Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with Garlic & Lemon
Oven Baked Chicken Legs are fantastic, no? These chicken drumstick recipes are even better. The crispy skin and juicy meat are a total winner.
We're talking Drumstick Recipes that'll have everyone licking their fingers, I promise. Let's do this!
Okay, let's get cooking with some SEO goodness!
What You'll Need For the Marinade
Right, first things first, you'll need:
- Four chicken leg recipes , skin on. (About 680g)
- Four cloves of garlic, minced.
- Two tablespoons each of fresh rosemary and thyme, chopped.
- The zest and juice of one lemon.
- Two tablespoons of olive oil.
- One teaspoon of kosher salt.
- Half a teaspoon of black pepper.
- A quarter teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you're feeling spicy. I love the heat!
More ingredients
For roasting, you'll need another tablespoon of olive oil and about 118ml of chicken broth. Honestly, the aroma of Roasted Chicken Legs with Herbs is divine.
Garlic Lemon Chicken Legs are a match made in heaven. And the most important tool is a meat thermometer, without it is not possible to confirm the safe temperature
Step-By-Step Instructions
Marinate like a boss! Get all the marinade ingredients into a bowl or bag with the chicken legs. Make sure they're coated properly.
Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.
Preheat the oven . Crank it up to 200° C ( 400° F). This step is crucial.
Roasting time! Remove the chicken from the marinade. Pop them in a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with foil. Drizzle with the extra olive oil. Pour in the chicken broth.
Roast away! Roast for 45- 55 minutes until the internal temperature hits 74° C ( 165° F). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
If you're using the reserved marinade, baste halfway through, its important to maintain a safe temperature.
Rest and serve! Let the chicken rest for about 5- 10 minutes before serving. This makes the meat juicier. This is an important step.
Serving suggestion? Try some Mediterranean Chicken Legs with roasted vegetables for a proper delicious meal.
Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with Garlic Lemon Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Party Started!
Okay, let's get cooking! Honestly, finding good chicken leg recipies is like finding the perfect pair of jeans. But trust me, this one is a winner.
This recipe for Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with Garlic & Lemon is proper banging. Now, let’s dive into what you'll need.
Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show
- Chicken Legs: You'll need 4 chicken legs (about 1.5 lbs / 680g ). Look for plump ones with good looking skin. I'd go with free-range if you can find them, just tastes better you know?
- Garlic: Gotta have 4 cloves , minced. Jarred stuff is okay in a pinch, but fresh is king.
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons each of fresh rosemary and thyme, chopped. If you only have dried, use 1 teaspoon each.
- Lemon: Zest and juice of 1 lemon. Seriously, don't skip the zest, it adds loads of flavor.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for the marinade, plus 1 tablespoon for roasting.
- Seasoning: 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional).
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup (118ml) for the roasting pan. This keeps things nice and moist.
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town, Population: You
This spice combo is essential . Rosemary and thyme are just classic with chicken . It evokes "Sunday dinner" memories. The garlic and lemon brighten everything up.
It gives that zest. For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika. Also, if you're feeling fancy, a dash of white wine to the pan never hurt anyone.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid
- Large Bowl or Resealable Bag: For marinating. I prefer a bag, easier to squish everything around.
- Roasting Pan or Baking Sheet: Either works, just make sure it's big enough.
- Meat Thermometer: Absolutely crucial! You want that chicken at 165° F ( 74° C) .
You could use a casserole dish instead of a roasting pan. You can easily do so, and no one will judge.
Honestly, these Oven Baked Chicken Legs are so simple. Even your nan could make them after a couple of sherry's.
Give this recipe a whirl. You'll love how easy it is to create Crispy Chicken Legs Recipe . Seriously, this is one of those chicken leg recipes that's so good, you'll be making it every week.
Let's talk Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with Garlic & Lemon ! Honestly, sometimes you just crave that Sunday dinner vibe, right? But who has all day to slave away in the kitchen? These oven baked chicken legs are the answer.
They're super easy and taste like you spent hours. Okay, let's get cooking with some SEO goodness! These are destined to become a new favorite
Crispy Chicken Legs: The Ultimate Easy Dinner
I'm telling you, finding good chicken leg recipes that are actually easy is a mission. But this one? Winner winner, chicken leg dinner ! We're talking crispy skin, juicy meat, and a flavour that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Plus, the Mediterranean herbs give it a little pizzazz – we're not just doing plain old chicken here. These drumstick recipes are a game changer.
The key to amazing chicken drumstick recipes is all in the prep!
Prep Steps: Get Your Sht Together (Mise en Place)
First things first, let's get organised. Mince your 4 cloves of garlic. Chop 2 tablespoons each of fresh rosemary and fresh thyme.
Zest and juice 1 lemon. Measure out your spices: 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you're feeling spicy!).
Gather your 4 chicken legs
Time-Saving Tip: Do this the night before! The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavour it will get.
Safety First: Always wash your hands and surfaces after handling raw chicken. Nobody wants salmonella for dessert!
Step-by-Step: From Raw to Roasted Perfection
Ready to get your hands dirty? I promise, it's easier than ordering takeout!
- Marinate: In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped herbs, lemon zest, lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Slather that marinade all over the chicken legs . Pop them in a bag or bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Overnight is even better!
- Preheat: Crank that oven up to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Prep the Pan: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a roasting pan.
- Arrange & Add Broth: Place the marinated chicken legs in the pan. Pour in ½ cup of chicken broth – this keeps them juicy!
- Roast: Roast for 45- 55 minutes , or until the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) . Baste with any leftover marinade halfway through, if you want extra flavour.
- Rest: Let the roasted chicken legs with herbs rest for 5- 10 minutes before serving. Seriously, don't skip this step!
Visual Cue: You're looking for that golden-brown, crispy skin. The juices should run clear when you poke it with a fork.
Pro Tips for Chicken Leg Recipes
Okay, so here's where we take these garlic lemon chicken legs from good to amazing .
- Crispy Skin Trick: Pat those legs DRY before marinating! Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Honestly, it´s a game changer.
- Don't Crowd: Give those legs some space in the pan. Overcrowding steams them instead of roasting.
- Make-Ahead: Marinate overnight for maximum flavour!
Common Mistake to Avoid: Overcooking the chicken! Use a meat thermometer. Undercooked chicken is a no-no, but dried-out chicken is a crime against taste buds.
Now you know you can make these delicious easy chicken leg dinner , so keep in mind this recipe and I´m sure you´ll enjoy them every time.
Recipe Notes for Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with Garlic & Lemon
Right then, let's chat about these amazing Crispy Herb Roasted Chicken Legs with a Garlic & Lemon twist! Honestly, this isn’t just any old chicken leg recipe . These are seriously delicious.
Serving Suggestions for Your Sunday Dinner
Okay, so you've got these golden Oven Baked Chicken Legs ... now what? For plating, I like to arrange them on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Picture this: vibrant green against that crispy, golden skin – proper restaurant vibes!
For sides, roasted veg is a winner every time. Think chunky potatoes, carrots, and maybe some broccoli florets. Proper Sunday dinner sorted! A creamy polenta also goes down a treat.
Fancy a bit of fresh? A Greek salad balances the richness perfectly. Don't forget a nice glass of white wine either!
Storage Tips for Chicken
So, you've got leftovers? Lucky you! Pop them in the fridge, in an airtight container, within two hours of cooking.
They’ll be good for 3-4 days . Reheating? I prefer the oven ( 350° F/ 175° C ) to keep them crispy.
Can you freeze these? Yep! Wrap them well in cling film, then foil, and they'll last for up to 3 months .
Thaw overnight in the fridge. Make sure you are using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for safe eating.
165° F ( 74° C) .
Variations on this Drumstick Recipes
Want to mix things up? Got you covered! For a spicy kick, chuck in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.
You know? It’s like boom , flavour explosion!
Or, if you're feeling fancy, a honey-garlic glaze towards the end is Oh my gosh! divine! Just brush it on for the last 15 minutes of roasting.
Paleo or Keto? No worries! Ensure your chicken broth is bone broth and stick to olive oil.
Nutrition Basics
Right, down to brass tacks. Each serving of these Chicken Drumstick Recipes will give you roughly 450 calories . Loads of protein, about 45g ! And a decent hit of fat, around 30g .
Chicken is packed with protein, which is great for muscle building. The lemon adds a nice dose of vitamin C too. These Chicken Drumstick Recipes is a nutritional winner.
Don’t fret, it’s easier than you think. Now go make these amazing Roasted Chicken Legs with Herbs !
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make sure my chicken legs are super crispy, like the ones from Nando's?
Ah, the quest for crispy chicken! The secret's in the prep. First, pat those chicken legs REALLY dry with paper towels before marinating. This removes excess moisture. Also, don't overcrowd the pan – space them out so the hot air can circulate properly. A little drizzle of olive oil right before they go in helps too!
Can I marinate these chicken legs overnight? Is that like, totally safe?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight is not only safe but recommended for maximum flavor, like letting a good cuppa tea steep properly. Just ensure the chicken legs are properly covered in the marinade and stored in a sealed container or bag in the refrigerator. The acids in the lemon juice will tenderize the chicken, giving you a melt-in-your-mouth experience!
What internal temperature should my chicken legs reach to be safely cooked? I don't want a "raw chicken sandwich" situation!
Safety first, mate! You want to make sure those chicken legs hit an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the leg, away from the bone. Undercooked chicken is a no-go, so better safe than sorry!
I'm trying to watch my calories - what's the nutritional information for these chicken leg recipies and are there ways to make it healthier?
Each serving is estimated to be around 450 calories, with about 45g of protein, 30g of fat, and 5g of carbs. You can lighten it up by trimming any excess skin before marinating, using a cooking spray instead of olive oil, and serving with plenty of fresh veggies instead of heavier sides. Also, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a lower-fat alternative, though they won't be quite as crispy!
Can I use other herbs besides rosemary and thyme in these chicken leg recipies? I'm feeling a bit experimental!
Absolutely! Get your inner Jamie Oliver on! Oregano, sage, and even a bit of parsley would work beautifully with the lemon and garlic. You could also try some smoked paprika for a smoky twist. Just keep the ratios similar so the flavors balance out nicely. Remember, cooking should be fun!
How long can I store leftover roasted chicken legs, and what's the best way to reheat them?
Leftover roasted chicken legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For a quick reheat, you can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them or they will get rubbery. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating can help keep them moist, like a little spa day for your leftovers!
