Description
Crispy and sticky oven-baked chicken legs with a sweet-smoky rub, perfect for weeknights and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken legs (drumsticks) or 4 leg quarters
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp baking powder (optional)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp chili powder or ⅛ tsp cayenne (optional)
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (optional, for glazing)
- Lemon wedges for garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
- Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, chili powder (or cayenne), and baking powder in a bowl.
- Toss chicken with olive oil to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle spice mix over chicken and rub in well.
- Arrange chicken skin-side up on the rack or sheet pan.
- Bake drumsticks for 35–40 minutes or leg quarters for 45–55 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Brush BBQ sauce on during the last 5 minutes of baking, if using. Broil for 1–2 minutes if desired.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley before serving.
Notes
Optional substitutions include coconut sugar for brown sugar, smoked sweet paprika for milder flavor, and baking powder for extra crispiness. Serve with sides like roasted potatoes or coleslaw.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American