Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper, and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring it cooks evenly and crisps up nicely.
Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using.
In a separate bowl, mix the beaten eggs with the milk.
In another dish, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Coat the Chicken Legs:
Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
Dredge each chicken leg in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Dip the chicken in the egg mixture, then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to make sure they stick well.
Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Place the coated chicken legs on the wire rack, spacing them evenly. Drizzle the melted butter or olive oil over the chicken to help it brown and crisp up during baking.
Bake the Chicken:
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve the oven-fried chicken legs with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside classic sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success
Use a Wire Rack: Cooking the chicken on a wire rack ensures that air circulates around it, resulting in even crispiness.
Season the Flour Well: Adding enough seasoning to the flour mixture is key to flavorful chicken.
Don’t Skip the Butter or Oil: Drizzling melted butter or olive oil on the chicken helps create a golden, crispy crust.
Why You’ll Love Oven Fried Chicken Legs
Oven Fried Chicken Legs are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic taste of fried chicken without all the oil. The crispy coating, juicy meat, and flavorful seasoning make each bite deliciously satisfying. This recipe is simple, requiring basic pantry ingredients, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices for extra flair. It’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken and a great choice for weeknight dinners or a casual get-together.
Conclusion
This recipe for Oven Fried Chicken Legs brings you the crunchy, flavorful goodness of fried chicken straight from the oven. The combination of a well-seasoned coating and a high-temperature bake results in drumsticks that are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It’s an easy, fuss-free dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a healthier take on a beloved comfort food classic!
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