Oven-fried chicken legs are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- Chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken legs in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Make sure they are well coated.
- Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for better flavor.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken legs from the buttermilk, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Roll each piece in the flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Place on Baking Sheet:
- Place a wire rack on a baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the chicken and help it crisp up. If you don’t have a rack, you can place the chicken directly on a greased baking sheet.
- Spray with Cooking Spray or Brush with Oil:
- Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray or brush them with a thin layer of olive oil. This helps in achieving a golden and crispy texture.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to turn the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness.
- Serve:
- Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to retain the juices and keeps the chicken moist.
Enjoy your oven-fried chicken legs with your favorite dipping sauce or sides! This method gives you a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying, making it a healthier option.
