Best Baked Chicken Legs And Thighs (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any occasion, you can't go wrong with baked chicken legs and thighs. This classic dish can be dressed up or down, depending on your preferences, and it's the perfect way to feed a crowd or enjoy a cozy night in with your family. But with so many recipes and techniques out there, how do you know which one is the best?
Before you start cooking your chicken legs and thighs, there are a few factors to consider. First, you'll want to make sure you have the right ingredients and equipment on hand. This might include fresh chicken, seasonings, a baking dish or sheet, and a meat thermometer. You'll also want to think about your cooking method, whether you prefer to marinate your chicken beforehand, and how long you want to bake it for.
To help you find the best recipe for your needs, ask yourself a few questions. Are you looking for a recipe that's quick and simple, or one that's more elaborate and flavorful? Do you prefer your chicken to be crispy or juicy, or a bit of both? And what kind of seasonings and side dishes do you want to pair with your chicken? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect baked chicken legs and thighs recipe for your next meal.
10 Best Baked Chicken Legs And Thighs
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The product is ideal for adding BBQ glaze seasoning to food.
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Ideal for seasoning and flavoring rotisserie, smoked, and grilled chicken with a gluten-free, low sodium, and keto-friendly spice blend.
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Ideal for adding flavor and richness to soups, stews, gravies, and sauces.
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The product is ideal for adding spicy flavor to chicken dishes.
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Ideal for enhancing the flavor of sauces, soups, and stews without adding any fat or cholesterol.
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The product is ideal for seasoning and enhancing the flavor of baked chicken, dumplings, enchiladas, and other dishes.
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This product is ideal for seasoning seafood, poultry, salads, and meats.
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This product is ideal for adding delicious flavor to meats, fish, burgers and all types of foods.
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Ideal for enhancing flavor of meats, poultry and vegetables with garlic, herb, and wine infusion.
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Seasoning blend suitable for organic poultry, without added salt.
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1. Shake 'n Bake Bbq Glaze Seasoned Coating Mix (6 Oz Boxes, Pack Of 8)
Introducing the Kraft Shake 'N Bake BBQ Glaze Seasoned Coating Mix – a convenient and delicious way to add a classic barbecue flavor to your favorite chicken or pork dishes. With 16 packets in each box, you'll have plenty of perfectly seasoned coating mix to create crispy and flavorful meals for your family and friends.
Say goodbye to frying and hello to healthier meals with this easy-to-use coating mix. Simply coat your chicken or pork in the Shake 'N Bake mix and bake in the oven for a crispy, golden brown finish. The BBQ glaze adds a mouthwatering sweetness to your dish that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Not only is this coating mix perfect for traditional BBQ chicken, but it's also great for creating chicken nuggets, crispy chicken sandwiches, and other creative dishes. Plus, with two pouches in each box, you can enjoy Shake 'N Bake for more than one meal.
Each packet is carefully crafted with quality ingredients to ensure a delicious and satisfying meal. So, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to add some flavor to your meats, try Kraft Shake 'N Bake BBQ Glaze Seasoned Coating Mix today!
2. Chick Mag Seasoning: The Ultimate Chicken Rub
DennyMike's Southwest style seasoning is a game-changer for those who love to cook and want to bring out the best in their meals. This complete seasoning is specially crafted to add a delicious kick to your chicken, turkey, and duck dishes, whether you are cooking on the barbecue or smoker.
With less salt and more flavor, this all-natural chicken rub is preservative-free and MSG-free, making it an excellent choice for gut health. Additionally, it is vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it an ideal seasoning for everyone.
This all-around chicken seasoning rub is versatile and can be used on everything from burgers, barbecues, and chops to veggies, tofu, stews, casseroles, salads, dips, and marinades. With DennyMike's Southwest Style Seasoning, you can add flavor to any dish and elevate it to the next level.
Using this seasoning is effortless and straightforward. For a good BBQ rub or brisket rub, sprinkle the seasoning on your poultry or meat, and grill, smoke, or bake it as you would normally. Available in 7oz and 24oz jars, this seasoning is easy to carry with you anywhere you go, allowing you to season your meals with spices on the go.
DennyMike's Southwest Style Seasoning is a trusted brand that both home cooks and professional chefs can rely on. With over 60 awards from juried competitions across the country, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality, award-winning seasoning that will take your meals to the next level. So, go ahead, throw it on whatever you're grilling up, and enjoy the amazing flavor!
3. Kitchen Basics Organic Free Range Chicken Stock, 32 Fl Oz
This organic, free-range chicken stock is a must-have for any kitchen. Made with slow-simmered vegetables, herbs, and spices, it's the perfect way to add rich flavor to your dishes.
The package design is easy to use – simply pour out what you need and reseal for use again and again. Plus, it's gluten-free and contains no added MSG, making it a healthy choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Not only does this chicken stock add flavor to soups and stews, but it's also great for cooking rice or quinoa. Just boil in the stock instead of water for a delicious twist on a classic dish.
This versatile stock can be used in any recipe calling for broth, stock, or bouillon. It's a great way to add depth of flavor to dishes like risotto, casseroles, and sauces.
The package is not only convenient but also environmentally friendly. It's recyclable and FSC certified, ensuring that it's made from responsibly sourced materials. Additionally, it's ASI certified, meaning it meets high standards for sustainability and ethical practices.
4. Olde Thompson Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning, Flaming Hot Chicken Spice, 7.3 Oz
Introducing the perfect addition to your pantry – premium Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning in 7.3oz plastic bottles! This blend has been carefully crafted to deliver a delicious kick to your meals with its fine grind texture. Whether used as a standalone seasoning or mixed in with your custom southern spice blends, this versatile blend is sure to impress.
This seasoning is best suited for chicken dishes, but it also adds a delightful flavor when added to sour cream or mayo dips, vegetables, potatoes, salads, or any of your favorite dishes that require a spicy twist. Experience the gourmet flavor of commercial kitchens in the comfort of your own home, with the convenience of our ready-to-go bottles.
Our seasoning bottles are sealed for freshness, ensuring that the contents inside are ready to use immediately upon arrival. So, you can enjoy the full flavor of this seasoning without any worries about spoilage. With its premium blend, versatile uses, and guaranteed freshness, this Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning is a must-have for any home cook or food enthusiast looking to enhance their dishes with a savory kick.
5. Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon For Sauces, Soups And Stews Granulated Fat And Cholesterol Free 7.9 Oz
Introducing Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon, a granulated bouillon that is sure to elevate your cooking game. This versatile bouillon contains a delicious blend of chicken, onion, parsley, and spices, making it the perfect base for a wide variety of dishes.
Whether you're making a hearty chicken soup, a flavorful sauce, or a comforting stew, Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon is the ultimate chicken base for an authentic home-cooked taste. The bouillon is naturally flavored with chicken stock, garlic, onion, and herbs, ensuring that every dish you make is bursting with rich, savory flavor.
Not only does Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon add incredible flavor to your favorite dishes, but it also enhances the flavor of soups, stews, sauces, rice, vegetables, pastas, and any chicken dishes. With this bouillon in your pantry, you can easily transform any meal into a culinary masterpiece.
In addition to their famous chicken bouillon, Knorr also offers a variety of other bouillon flavors, including beef, shrimp, vegetable, and chicken tomato bouillon. They also offer chicken and beef stock for your cooking needs.
Knorr has been known for their homestyle flavors for decades, and their Chicken Flavor Bouillon is no exception. So why settle for bland, boring dishes when you can use Knorr Chicken Flavor Bouillon to create mouth-watering meals that your family and friends will love?
6. Beer Can Chicken Rub – Bbq Magic!
Introducing The Best Beer Can Chicken Rub – the perfect addition to any kitchen. Whether you're an experienced chef or a novice, this dry rub will add exceptional flavor to your meals, particularly chicken.
Our BBQ experts have carefully blended onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and other premium spices to create a mouth-watering flavor in every bite. You can trust that your poultry will come out perfectly every single time with this rub.
The Best Beer Can Chicken Rub comes in a convenient shaker container, making it easy to use and store. Even if your guests can't resist getting messy, your kitchen won't be! Plus, you can use this versatile rub on more than just baked chicken. Transform your dumplings, chicken noodle soup, enchiladas, chicken pot pie, burgers, veggies, and more with this delicious flavor.
At Kosmos Q, our BBQ rubs and seasonings are tested in World Championships by World Champions. If it's not good enough for us, then it's not good enough for you. Bring people together with award-winning BBQ and impress your guests with the delicious taste of The Best Beer Can Chicken Rub.
7. Old Bay Seasoning, For Seafood, Poultry, Salads, And Meats, 2.62 Oz
For the passionate home cook, the Old Bay Seasoning is a tantalizing blend of herbs and spices that is sure to elevate any dish. This savory seasoning is made up of a unique combination of McCormick celery salt, paprika, and red and black peppers. Whether sprinkling it on popcorn, seasoning fries, or adding it to seafood, Old Bay is a versatile seasoning that is perfect for any culinary enthusiast.
Old Bay is a kosher seasoning that is free from MSG and hydrogenated oils, making it a healthier option for those who are mindful of their diet. The easy-to-use shaker bottle makes it effortless to add just the right amount of seasoning to your dish. Sprinkle it on fish, chicken, or even vegetables for a flavor boost that is sure to impress your family and friends.
For seafood lovers, Old Bay is a must-have seasoning. The recipe tip suggests adding two tablespoons of Old Bay Seasoning for every pound of fish to liven up your favorite seafood dish. This seasoning adds a zesty kick to shrimp, crab, and lobster. It can also be used to make delicious seafood soups and stews.
Fun Fact: Old Bay Seasoning has been a household name since 1939. It has been spicing up chicken, seafood, snacks, and more for over 80 years. This seasoning has become a staple in many kitchens across the country and is loved by both professional chefs and home cooks alike.
8. Flavor Trio: Kosher Salt, Pepper, Garlic
Livia's Seasoning Salt is a carefully crafted blend of three common spices: Kosher Salt, Coarse Black Pepper, and Garlic Salt. Without any onions, herbs, or hidden spices, this Salt, Pepper, and Garlic (SPG) combination is perfectly balanced, eliminating the need to measure each spice separately to achieve the ideal blend. With just a shake, this seasoning provides the perfect result every time. Livia's Seasoning Salt is versatile and can be used to elevate the flavor of a range of dishes.
Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, Livia's Seasoning Salt is the perfect secret ingredient to enhance your cooking and impress your guests. This seasoning is ground to an ideal consistency, making it easy to sprinkle or rub onto your favorite cut of meat. It is perfect for sautéing, roasting, and pan or air frying. Livia's Seasoning Salt can transform the most basic steak, chicken, fish, or burger into a mouthwatering entree that will receive rave reviews from even the toughest critics.
Apart from meat, Livia's Seasoning Salt is also an excellent all-purpose seasoning. It is perfect for all foods where salt is traditionally used, adding an explosion of flavor to salads, vegetables, potatoes, rice, chili, pizza, sandwiches, watermelon, french fries, guacamole, dips, and even popcorn. The possibilities are endless with this seasoning.
Livia's Seasoning Salt is also a healthy option, with zero calories and all-natural ingredients. It is gluten-free, non-GMO, non-MSG, soy-free, and nut-free, making it suitable for most diets. This seasoning can add flavor without calories to everything from green beans to egg whites.
Livia's Seasoning Salt is also excellent for grilling and barbecuing. It was awarded the 2021 Rubs of Honor Award for the Pork and Seafood categories by Barbecue News Magazine. From ribs to seafood to sides, Livia's Seasoning Salt is the easiest way to add flavor to grilling and smoking. It comes in a convenient size, making it easy to take to the beach or lake house, on vacation, or traveling in an RV. It is perfect for on-the-go prep and making meals delicious.
9. Mccormick Grill Mates Garlic, Herb & Wine Marinade Mix, 0.87 Oz
Introducing the Mediterranean-inspired dry marinade mix, a delicious blend of garlic, savory herbs, and white wine that is sure to elevate your grilling game. This product is made with McCormick spices and herbs, ensuring you get the best quality ingredients in every packet.
As America's number one grilling seasoning, this marinade mix is perfect for adding bold flavors to chicken, pork, or seafood. Its dry nature makes it easy to use and store, and with a weight of 0.87 oz per packet, you'll have enough for multiple meals.
Preparing your meats with this marinade mix is easy. Simply combine one packet with ¼ cup of water and oil, 1 tbsp vinegar, and 2 lbs of your preferred protein. Let the mixture marinate for a while, and then let your grill work its magic.
10. Frontier Poultry Seasoning Certified Organic, Salt-Free Blend, 1.2-Ounce Bottle
The 1.2 Ounce Bottle of organic seasoning blend is an excellent addition to any kitchen. This blend is specifically designed to enhance the flavor of poultry, sausage, gravies, and stuffing. It is made from all-natural and organic ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to traditional seasoning blends.
This seasoning blend is certified organic, ensuring that it is free from harmful chemicals and additives. It is also non-irradiated, meaning that it has not been exposed to ionizing radiation, which can negatively affect the nutritional value of food.
Frontier, the company behind this seasoning blend, is a member-owned co-op that is dedicated to being responsible to both people and the planet. This means that they source their ingredients from ethical and sustainable sources, and they prioritize the well-being of the environment and their workers.
Best Baked Chicken Legs And Thighs FAQs
Can you use boneless chicken thighs for a baked chicken recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used for baked chicken recipes. In fact, boneless chicken thighs are a popular choice for baked chicken because they are flavorful, juicy, and cook quickly. When using boneless chicken thighs for baked chicken, it is important to season them well and use a cooking method that will keep them moist and tender. One way to do this is to marinate the chicken in a mixture of oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices for at least 30 minutes before baking. Another option is to coat the chicken in a dry rub or breadcrumb mixture to add extra flavor and texture. When baking boneless chicken thighs, it is important to cook them to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Overall, boneless chicken thighs are a great choice for baked chicken recipes because they are easy to prepare, versatile, and delicious.
How do you ensure that baked chicken legs and thighs are juicy and tender?
There are a few key steps you can take to ensure that baked chicken legs and thighs come out juicy and tender. Firstly, it's important to season the chicken well prior to baking. A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic powder can go a long way in enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
Secondly, it's important to not overcook the chicken. Overcooking can dry out the meat and leave it tough and chewy. To avoid this, make sure to only bake the chicken for the recommended amount of time, and use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Another tip is to use a baking dish that's just the right size for the chicken. If the dish is too big, the juices will spread out and the chicken may dry out. If the dish is too small, the chicken may end up steaming rather than roasting, which can also lead to dryness.
Finally, consider basting the chicken with its own juices halfway through baking. This will help to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. By following these steps, you can ensure that your baked chicken legs and thighs come out juicy and tender every time.
How do you reheat leftover baked chicken legs and thighs?
The best way to reheat leftover baked chicken legs and thighs is to use the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken pieces in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. This helps to keep the chicken moist during reheating. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-30 minutes or until the chicken is heated through. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches at least 165°F (75°C).
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the chicken pieces on a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken as it can become dry and tough.
Regardless of the method you choose, it's important to reheat the chicken thoroughly to avoid the risk of foodborne illness. Also, avoid reheating the chicken more than once as it can increase the risk of bacterial growth.
How long should you bake chicken legs and thighs?
When it comes to baking chicken legs and thighs, the cooking time and temperature depend on various factors such as the size of the chicken, the oven temperature, and the desired level of doneness. However, a general rule of thumb is to bake chicken legs and thighs at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes.
Make sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Before baking, you can marinate the chicken legs and thighs in your preferred seasoning or rub, and let them sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to penetrate. You can also brush the chicken with melted butter or olive oil to add moisture and flavor.
In conclusion, baking chicken legs and thighs is a simple and delicious way to prepare chicken, and by following the time and temperature guidelines, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken with a crispy skin.
Should you marinate chicken legs and thighs before baking?
Marinating chicken legs and thighs before baking is a great way to add flavor and moisture to the meat. Marinating involves soaking the chicken in a mixture of herbs, spices, oils, and other liquids to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
Marinating chicken legs and thighs before baking can also help to tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicier and more succulent dish. Moreover, marinating can also help to reduce the risk of the chicken drying out during cooking.
When marinating chicken legs and thighs, it is important to use a non-reactive container such as a glass or plastic dish to avoid any chemical reactions that can affect the flavor of the chicken. It is also important to keep the chicken refrigerated while marinating to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Overall, marinating chicken legs and thighs before baking is a great way to enhance the flavor and texture of the meat while also adding moisture and tenderness.
What is a good substitute for chicken legs in a baked chicken recipe?
If you are looking for a good substitute for chicken legs in a baked chicken recipe, there are several options available. One of the best alternatives is chicken thighs, which are also flavorful and juicy, and can be cooked in the same way as chicken legs. You can also use chicken breasts, although they may require a shorter cooking time as they tend to dry out more easily. Another great option is turkey legs, which are similar in texture and taste to chicken legs and can be used in any recipe that calls for them. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can try using tofu or seitan, which can be marinated and baked in the same way as chicken. Ultimately, the choice of substitute will depend on your personal preference and dietary restrictions, but any of these options will make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
What is the best seasoning for baked chicken legs and thighs?
When it comes to seasoning baked chicken legs and thighs, there are a lot of options depending on your personal taste preferences. However, some of the best seasonings that work well with chicken are garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
To make a simple yet delicious seasoning blend, you can mix together a tablespoon of garlic powder, a tablespoon of onion powder, a teaspoon of paprika, a teaspoon of cumin, and a teaspoon of chili powder. Then, sprinkle this seasoning mix generously over the chicken legs and thighs before roasting them in the oven.
If you prefer a more savory taste, you can add some dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mix. Alternatively, if you like a bit of sweetness, you can add a pinch of brown sugar or honey to the seasoning blend. Ultimately, the best seasoning for baked chicken legs and thighs depends on your personal taste preferences.
What is the best way to prepare chicken legs and thighs for baking?
When it comes to preparing chicken legs and thighs for baking, there are a few key steps that can help ensure the best results. First, it's important to properly season the chicken with a mix of herbs and spices to add flavor. A simple blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika can work well.
Next, it's a good idea to marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. A mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can make for a delicious marinade.
Before baking, be sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which can prevent the skin from crisping up. Arrange the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute. With these simple steps, you can create juicy, flavorful chicken legs and thighs that are perfect for any occasion.
What side dishes pair well with baked chicken legs and thighs?
When it comes to pairing side dishes with baked chicken legs and thighs, there are a variety of options that can complement the flavors of the chicken. Here are a few suggestions:
1. Roasted vegetables: Roasting vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and zucchini can be a great way to add some color and nutrition to your meal.
2. Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a classic and comforting side dish that pairs well with chicken. You can add butter and garlic for extra flavor.
3. Salad: A fresh, light salad is always a good option to balance out a heavy main dish. You can use a mix of greens and add some chopped tomatoes, cucumber, and avocado for some extra texture.
4. Rice pilaf: A flavorful rice dish with herbs, spices, and vegetables is a great way to add some variety to your meal.
5. Corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs well with baked chicken. You can add butter and herbs for extra flavor.
Overall, the key is to choose side dishes that complement the flavors of the chicken and add some variety and nutrition to your meal.
What temperature should you bake chicken legs and thighs at?
When it comes to baking chicken legs and thighs, the ideal temperature is 375°F (190°C). At this temperature, the chicken will cook evenly and thoroughly without drying out or becoming tough.
It is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any risk of food poisoning. To check the temperature, use a meat thermometer and insert it into the thickest part of the chicken leg or thigh, making sure not to touch the bone.
To enhance the flavor and texture of the chicken, you can marinate it in your favorite seasonings and spices for a few hours before baking. You can also brush it with a bit of oil or butter to keep it moist and tender.
Overall, baking chicken legs and thighs at 375°F (190°C) is a reliable and easy way to prepare a delicious and healthy meal for yourself or your family.
