Ingredients
Scale
- 8 chicken legs (about 2 lbs), skin-on
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme (or substitute with dried rosemary)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if you have one; this ensures even cooking and crispiness. - Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels—this step is key to achieving crispy skin. Place the chicken in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and thyme. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken, tossing until each leg is evenly coated. - Arrange and Bake:
Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out to ensure proper airflow. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through.Pro Tip: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you love super crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. - Rest and Serve:
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
- Prep Time: 15minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes