Chicken legs are a delicious and inexpensive cut of chicken that work great for baking. With the right technique, baked BBQ chicken legs are juicy, tender and packed with flavor. But an important question is – how long should you bake bbq chicken legs for optimal results? This comprehensive guide provides tips, techniques and timing for baking foolproof bbq chicken legs.
Introduction to Baking BBQ Chicken Legs
Baked bbq chicken legs have many advantages over other cooking methods:
- Baking allows the chicken to cook evenly all the way through. Chicken legs can be baked skin-on or skinless.
- The oven’s dry heat helps render out fat and crisps up the skin beautifully.
- Chicken legs are inexpensive and feed a crowd easily. Drumsticks and thighs bake up just as moist and flavorful as pricier cuts.
- Baked chicken legs pair well with endless bbq sauces, rubs and glazes. The oven helps the sauce caramelize into the meat.
- Cleanup is easier than grilling or frying chicken. Just pop the baking sheet in the dishwasher after dinner.
- Baked chicken legs reheat exceptionally well and make great leftovers.
With the proper technique and timing, baked bbq chicken legs come out of the oven juicy, tender and full of flavor every time.
How Long to Bake Chicken Legs
Chicken leg quarters take 45-60 minutes to bake at 350°F-375°F. Baked chicken drumsticks and thighs take a little less time, around 30-45 minutes.
The exact baking time depends on:
- Size of the chicken legs – Larger leg quarters take longer than smaller drumsticks or thighs.
- Bone-in or boneless – Boneless legs cook faster, while bone-in will be juicier.
- Skin on or off – Chicken legs with the skin on will need a few extra minutes.
- Cooking temperature – The hotter the oven, the less time needed. Stick to 350°F for juicy chicken.
- Doneness – Chicken legs are safe to eat once the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Follow the recipe cooking times as a guide, and always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is fully cooked through. If baking chicken legs from frozen, add 5-10 extra minutes to compensate.
Now let’s go over some tips and techniques for baked bbq chicken legs that come out perfect every time.
Tips for Baked BBQ Chicken Legs
1. Pat the Chicken Legs Dry
Patting the chicken legs dry with paper towels before baking achieves a crispy skin and helps the bbq sauce caramelize later. Ensure the skin is fully dry for best results.
2. Season Under the Skin
Lifting up the skin and seasoning directly onto the meat leads to extra flavorful baked chicken. Try a rub containing salt, pepper and spices. Massage the seasoning into the meat before closing the skin back over top.
3. Use a Cooling Rack
Placing the chicken legs on a wire cooling rack over a baking sheet improves air circulation and prevents stewing. The rack allows the oven heat to circulate under and around the legs for even cooking.
4. Bake Skin-Side Up
Position the chicken legs skin-side up in the oven so the skin gets perfectly browned and crispy. The skin will help keep the meat moist as it renders drippings.
5. Brush on BBQ Sauce Towards the End
Wait until the last 10-15 minutes of baking before brushing on bbq sauce. Brushing it on too early can lead to burning. The sauce will caramelize beautifully at the end.
6. Let Chicken Rest Before Serving
Allowing the baked chicken legs to rest 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven leads to juicier meat. The resting period allows juices to redistribute through the chicken.
Following these tips will lead to supremely moist, flavorful and fall-off-the-bone baked bbq chicken legs every time. Next let’s go over step-by-step baking instructions.
How to Bake Chicken Legs – Step-by-Step
This foolproof method for baking chicken legs results in tender meat and crispy skin.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 chicken legs, drumsticks or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon seasoning rub
- 1⁄2 cup bbq sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken dry using paper towels. Rub chicken all over with olive oil.
- Season chicken by lifting up the skin and rubbing seasoning directly onto meat. Close skin back overtop.
- Arrange chicken on rack skin-side up, evenly spaced. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Brush chicken with bbq sauce and bake 10-15 minutes more until sauce caramelizes.
- Check internal temperature to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
- Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juiciest results.
In less than an hour, you can have perfectly baked bbq chicken legs using this simple method. Cooking times may vary based on size of the legs.
Next let’s go over some common questions when baking chicken legs.
FAQs About How Long to Bake Chicken Legs
How long should I bake chicken legs at 400°F?
At the higher 400°F temperature, chicken legs will bake faster. Bake bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters for 35-40 minutes. Boneless thighs or drumsticks will take 25-30 minutes at 400°F.
What is the minimum internal temperature for baked chicken legs?
Chicken legs should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F at the thickest part. Use an instant-read thermometer to confirm doneness and prevent undercooked chicken.
Can you overbake chicken legs?
It is possible for chicken legs to dry out if baked for too long. Leaving them in the oven for over an hour may lead to dry, stringy meat. Stick to recipe bake times for juicy results.
How can you tell when baked chicken legs are done?
Check for an internal temperature of 165°F with a meat thermometer. The skin will be crisp and golden brown when done. The meat should look opaque throughout with clear juices.
Should chicken legs be covered when baking?
For crispy skin, do not cover the chicken. Uncovered baking results in skin that is browned and crispy. Tented foil can help retain moisture, but will lead to softer skin.
Can you bake chicken legs from frozen?
Frozen chicken legs can absolutely be baked! Add about 5 extra minutes per pound to compensate for thawing. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to end up with dry, tough chicken if you make some beginner baking mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the pat dry step – Starting with damp chicken prevents crisping.
- Baking at too low of temperature – At least 350°F is needed for crispy skin.
- Brushing on sauce too early – Bbq sauce will burn if added at the start.
- Overcrowding the pan – Chicken needs space for air circulation.
- Undercooking the meat – Always check internal temp for safety.
- Cutting into chicken too soon – Let it rest for juiciest meat.
As long as you stay within the recommended bake times and follow proper technique, you’ll achieve tender and juicy baked bbq chicken legs every time.
Cooking the Perfect BBQ Chicken Legs
When prepared and cooked properly, bbq chicken legs are absolutely delicious. Here’s a summary of techniques for cooking foolproof bbq chicken legs:
- Trim excess fat & skin – This helps the bbq sauce stick to the meat better.
- Pat chicken dry – Damp legs won’t crisp up or caramelize the sauce well.
- Coat with binder – A light coating of oil, egg wash or melted butter helps bbq sauce adhere.
- Season generously – For maximum flavor, try a sweet & spicy rub. Get seasoning under the skin.
- Bake at 375°F – This gives you juicy meat and perfectly browned, crispy skin.
- Brush on sauce at very end – Basting too early can lead to burning. Sauce caramelizes beautifully in last 10 minutes.
- Check internal temp – Chicken must reach 165°F minimum for food safety.
- Let rest before serving – Carryover cooking during the rest leads to juicier meat.
Follow these expert tips for bbq chicken legs with maximum flavor and juiciness every time you bake them.
Conclusion
Baking bbq chicken legs is easy with the right timing and technique. For bone-in chicken leg quarters, bake for 45-60 minutes at 350°F – 375°F. Boneless drumsticks or thighs take 30-45 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Pat chicken dry before baking, season generously with a rub, and brush bbq sauce on just during the last 10-15 minutes. Let chicken rest before serving for juicy results. Follow proper guidelines for bake time and temperature, and you’ll achieve tender baked bbq chicken legs with caramelized sauce and crispy skin every time.
FAQs About Baking Chicken Legs
Cooking up a batch of delicious baked chicken legs? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
What is the best temperature to bake chicken legs?
The ideal temperature range for baked chicken legs is 350°F to 375°F. This allows the legs to cook through fully while remaining tender and juicy.
How long should I bake chicken drumsticks and thighs?
At 350°F, bone-in drumsticks and thighs will need 30-40 minutes total. Boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks will bake slightly faster in 25-35 minutes.
How do you know when baked chicken legs are fully cooked?
Chicken legs are fully cooked once the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F. The juices should run clear and the meat will look opaque throughout when they are fully baked.
Should I cover chicken legs when baking?
For crispy skin, do not cover the legs. Baking uncovered allows the chicken skin to fully crisp up. You can tent them with foil at the end to retain moisture if needed.
What is the best way to bake chicken legs for juiciness?
Baking on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows air to circulate under the chicken for even cooking. Brushing on a little oil helps keep the meat moist. Avoid overbaking to prevent drying out.
Can I bake chicken legs directly from frozen?
Yes, frozen chicken legs can go straight into the oven, but add about 5 extra minutes per pound to allow the chicken to thaw as it bakes. Cook to an internal temp of 165°F.
Should I flip chicken legs halfway through baking?
Flipping is not necessary. Chicken legs can bake skin-side up the entire time. Just rotate the pan halfway through for even exposure to oven heat.
How can I make baked chicken legs extra crispy?
Pat the legs dry before seasoning, use a cooling rack to allow air circulation, and bake uncovered at 375°F. Rubbing the skin with baking powder also boosts crispiness.
What’s the best way to reheat baked chicken legs?
Preheat oven to 300°F. Place chicken legs on a baking sheet and warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Microwaving also works but can make the skin soggy.
Marinating Chicken Legs for Baking
Marinating chicken legs before baking infuses them incredible flavor. Follow these tips for marinating and baking juicy, delicious chicken legs:
Why Marinate?
- Infuses flavor – A marinade penetrates deep into the chicken meat.
- Tenderizes – Acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus help tenderize.
- Keeps chicken juicy – Oil or yogurt in marinade keeps meat moist.
- Adds flavorful crust – Spices, herbs, and aromatics coat the exterior.
- Works quickly – Chicken legs only need 1-2 hours in the marinade.
Tips for Best Results
- Marinate in fridge – Keeping chicken chilled prevents bacteria growth.
- Use a sealable bag – This ensures legs are fully coated in marinade.
- Marinate for 1-2 hours – Any longer can lead to mushy texture.
- Pat chicken dry – Remove excess marinade before baking so exterior crisps up.
- Discard used marinade – Don’t brush on raw marinade later to avoid bacteria.
Easy Baked Marinated Chicken Legs
Ingredients:
- 8 chicken legs
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1⁄4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Mix together all marinade ingredients.
- Place chicken legs in resealable bag or baking dish.
- Pour over marinade and turn legs to coat fully.
- Refrigerate 1-2 hours, flipping bag occasionally.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line pan with foil and place wire rack on top.
- Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Arrange legs skin-side up on rack. Discard used marinade.
- Bake 30-45 minutes until chicken is fully cooked (165°F).
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
The yogurt helps tenderize the meat while the lemon juice and oil keep the baked chicken legs extra juicy. Feel free to mix up the herb blend to your taste!
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Legs
Love chicken legs with super crispy skin? Here are useful tips for getting the crispiest baked chicken legs:
Dry the Skin
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before applying any oil or seasoning.
- Allowing excess moisture to air dry in the fridge overnight helps too.
- Dry skin is key for getting crispy baked chicken.
Use a Cooling Rack
- Elevate legs on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
- Air circulating under the chicken gives all-over crispy skin.
- A rack also prevents the legs from stewing in drippings.
Preheat the Pan
- Place empty baking sheet with rack in oven as it preheats.
- The hot pan helps sear the skin right away for extra crispiness.
- Carefully arrange legs on preheated rack.
Crisp Uncovered
- Do not use foil or tent chicken legs while baking.
- Uncovered baking results in drier, crispier skin.
- Foil steaming effect will lead to soft skin.
Apply Baking Powder
- Rub skin with baking powder before baking.
- The alkaline powder helps dehydrate the skin surface.
- Rinse off powder before eating.
Increase Oven Heat
- Bake at a high temperature like 400°F.
- The boosted heat makes the skin crisp up quickly.
- Monitor closely to prevent burning at higher heat.
Crispy baked chicken legs make a delicious dinner! Follow these pro tips for maximally crispy results every time.
Common Questions About Baking Chicken Legs
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how to bake chicken legs:
How long should I bake chicken legs at 375°F?
At 375°F, bone-in chicken legs will need about 45-60 minutes to fully bake through. Chicken drumsticks or thighs will take 30-45 minutes. Check internal temperature.
Is it better to bake chicken legs low and slow or at high heat?
Cooking at a moderate 350-375°F gives you the best of both worlds – crispy skin and juicy meat. High heat risks burning while low heat won’t crisp the skin enough.
Should I brine chicken legs before baking?
Brining is not necessary but does help keep the meat extra juicy and seasoned. Dissolve salt and sugar in water, then soak legs 1-2 hours before baking.
What is the minimum temperature chicken legs should reach?
Chicken legs must reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F at the thickest part to be safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to confirm.
Can you bake chicken legs from frozen?
Yes, frozen chicken legs can go straight into the preheated oven. Add about 5 extra minutes per pound to allow the chicken to thaw while baking.
Should I flip chicken legs while baking?
Flipping is not necessary. Chicken legs can bake skin-side up the entire time. Just rotate the pan once halfway through for even browning.
How do you keep baked chicken legs from drying out?
Brine or marinate before baking, don’t overcook, tent with foil if needed, and let legs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Feel free to mix up the seasonings and sauces to create your own signature baked chicken legs! Use an instant read thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Cooking Times for Baked Chicken Legs
When baking chicken legs, adhering to proper cooking times is key for ensuring safety and delicious results. Here are approximate chicken leg baking times based on cut and temperature:
Chicken Leg Quarters
- At 350°F – Bake for approximately 55-60 minutes
- At 375°F – Bake for 50-55 minutes
- At 400°F – Bake for 45-50 minutes