Baked Chicken Legs with the BEST Marinade
Enjoy juicy, flavorful baked chicken legs with a delightful marinade that's easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 pieces Chicken legs Bone-in, skin-on recommended for best flavor
For the Marinade
- 1/4 cup Olive oil Can be replaced with avocado oil
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Regular paprika works too
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons Honey or brown sugar Maple syrup can be a vegan substitute
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Can substitute with lime juice
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and lemon juice to create the marinade.
- Place chicken legs in a large dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best results, overnight in the refrigerator.
Cooking
- Arrange the marinated chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, until crispy and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, serve hot and enjoy your juicy, tender, and flavorful baked chicken legs!
Notes
For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color.