Oven Fried Chicken Legs

Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, these Oven Fried Chicken Legs are a healthier twist on a comfort food classic. Perfectly marinated in tangy buttermilk with a hint of optional hot sauce, the drumsticks are coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture, featuring the bold flavors of paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. Baked to perfection on a wire rack for that irresistible crunch, this recipe offers a guilt-free way to enjoy fried chicken without the mess of deep frying. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, these chicken legs are an easy weeknight dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing dish for any gathering. Serve them with your favorite sides or dipping sauces and savor every bite of this crispy oven-baked delight!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 6 pieces chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0 cooking oil spray

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken drumsticks and ensure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best flavor.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet for even cooking.

Step 3

In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4

Remove the chicken drumsticks from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each drumstick in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating. Place the coated chicken on the prepared wire rack.

Step 5

Spray the chicken generously with cooking oil spray to help achieve a golden, crispy texture.

Step 6

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.

Step 7

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or sides!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1129.5 grams (1129.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2094

Total Fat 71.10g	91%
Saturated Fat 21.70g	109%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.50g
Cholesterol 585mg	195%
Sodium 4564mg	198%
Total Carbohydrate 194.50g	71%
Dietary Fiber 9.20g	33%
Total Sugars 20.50g
Protein 166.70g	333%

Vitamin D 127IU	635%
Calcium 471mg	36%
Iron 17mg	94%
Potassium 2106mg	45%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.7%

Protein: 32.0%

Carbs: 37.3%