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Crispy Panko-Crusted Baked Chicken Legs Recipe

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4 from 82 reviews

This recipe features crispy panko-crusted baked chicken legs that are seasoned with a flavorful blend of garlic, onion, and smoked paprika. Baked to perfection in the oven, these chicken legs offer a crunchy exterior with juicy, tender meat inside, making them a perfect easy-to-make dinner for a family or gathering.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2.5 to 3 pounds chicken legs (about 8)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Breading

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup original Panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper and placing a wire baking rack inside the pan to allow air circulation around the chicken for crispiness.
  2. Make the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
  3. Season the chicken: Rub the spice mixture evenly all over each chicken leg to ensure every piece is well seasoned.
  4. Prepare egg and breadcrumb stations: In a shallow dish, beat the two eggs thoroughly. In a separate shallow dish, place the Panko breadcrumbs ready for coating.
  5. Coat the chicken legs: Dip one chicken leg completely into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then dip it into the Panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat all sides thoroughly.
  6. Arrange on rack: Place the coated drumstick onto the wire rack in the prepared baking pan. Make sure the legs do not touch to allow even crisping.
  7. Repeat coating: Continue dipping and coating the remaining chicken legs with egg and breadcrumbs, setting each on the rack without overlapping.
  8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken legs for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the biggest pieces reaches 165 degrees F, ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy inside.
  9. Rest before serving: Once baked, remove the chicken legs from the oven and let them cool for 5 minutes to allow juices to settle before serving crispy, flavorful chicken legs.

Notes

  • Using a wire rack helps air circulate around the chicken legs, ensuring a crisp exterior.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked.
  • For extra flavor, add a splash of smoked paprika or chili powder if you prefer a bit of heat.
  • Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier crust compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • This recipe works well with other cuts like thighs but adjust baking time accordingly.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/crispy-panko-crusted-baked-chicken-legs-recipe/