Baked Chicken Legs with Garlic and Spices

This delicious baked chicken legs recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal. It features succulent chicken legs infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic, thyme, and bold spices. The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned cooks. Start by marinating the chicken legs with garlic slivers and a blend of spices to enhance their natural flavor. Baking in a hot oven ensures the chicken is cooked to perfection, crispy on the outside and tender inside. This dish is versatile, perfect for casual dinners or served as part of a festive spread. The recipe can easily be doubled to cater for more guests. You can pair these chicken legs with various sides like roasted vegetables, salads, or fresh bread. Offering a delightful dining experience, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal to impress your loved ones. Enjoy a burst of flavors with every bite!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken legs
• 4 cloves of garlic
• Oil

Spices

• Thyme
• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Red pepper (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including marination)

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Legs: Wash and pat dry the chicken legs with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Rub each chicken leg with oil, then sprinkle with salt and rub it in well.
3. Garlic Infusion: Cut each garlic clove into four pieces. Using a small knife, make four slits in each chicken leg and insert a piece of garlic into each slit.
4. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle each leg generously with black pepper, red pepper, turmeric, thyme, and paprika.
5. Rest the Flavors: Place the seasoned chicken legs in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
6. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 200-220°C (392-428°F) about 15 minutes before you plan to cook.
7. Setup for Baking: Place a wire rack on top of a baking tray to catch any drippings and excess liquid from the chicken.
8. Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken legs on the wire rack. Bake for 35-45 minutes, turning halfway through for even crisping.
9. Check Doneness: Use a thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reads at least 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear.
10. Finish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy on its own or with your preferred sides.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use chicken thighs if you prefer; they are equally delicious.
• Extra Crispy: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of chili flakes for a spicy version.
• Herbal Flavor: Substitute thyme with rosemary for a different herbal note.
• Dietary Needs: Opt for skinless chicken for a lower-fat alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or a serving of mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon for added freshness.

Best Places

1. Le Coq au Vin - Known for its excellent poultry dishes. Location: 4800 S Orange Ave, Orlando, USA.
2. Fushin - Fine Asian tapas with a modern twist. Location: 41 Stanley Ave, Johannesburg, South Africa.
3. The Ledbury - Offers a sophisticated dining experience with modern European cuisine. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.
4. L'Astrance - Provides exquisite French dishes in a cozy setting. Location: 4 Rue Beethoven, Paris, France.
5. Moosewood Restaurant - An iconic vegetarian restaurant with creative offerings. Location: 215 N Cayuga St, Ithaca, USA.
6. Joe's Stone Crab - Famous for its seafood and poultry menu. Location: 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, USA.
7. Ippudo NY - Offers a delightful blend of traditional and modern Japanese fare. Location: 65 4th Ave, New York, USA.
8. Restaurant Tim Raue - A michelin-starred spot for Asian-inspired creations. Location: Rudi-Dutschke-Str. 26, Berlin, Germany.
9. Attica - Delivers inventive dishes with an Australian flair. Location: 74 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea, Australia.
10. Osteria Francescana - Features innovative Italian cuisine by Massimo Bottura. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.