21 Irresistible Oven Baked Chicken Leg Recipes for Every Taste

Chicken legs are one of the most versatile and budget-friendly cuts of meat, and baking them in the oven transforms them into crispy, juicy, and flavor-packed meals.

Whether you’re craving something smoky and spicy, sweet and sticky, or light and herby, oven baked chicken legs can be tailored to any taste.

They’re easy to prepare, require minimal cleanup, and are perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even meal prep.

In this collection of 21 oven baked chicken leg recipes, you’ll find everything from classic barbecue to Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Each recipe brings its own twist—some with bold spices, others with sweet glazes, and a few with creamy, comforting coatings.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, these recipes will help you make the most out of simple chicken legs.

21 Irresistible Oven Baked Chicken Leg Recipes for Every Taste

Herb Roasted Chicken Legs

A simple yet flavorful recipe that brings out the natural richness of chicken with fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, filling the kitchen with an inviting aroma.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs (drumsticks and thighs, skin-on for best flavor)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, oregano, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
3. Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Add them to the bowl and coat thoroughly with the herb mixture.
4. Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Roast for 40–45 minutes, turning the legs halfway through, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This herb roasted chicken leg recipe is both fragrant and flavorful, pairing well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a light salad.

The herbs and lemon provide freshness while the garlic adds depth, making it a reliable favorite.

Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Legs

Sweet and savory come together in this crowd-pleasing recipe.

The honey caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky glaze that clings to the crispy chicken skin, while garlic and soy sauce add depth.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp chopped scallions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic, vinegar, ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pat the chicken dry and place it into the marinade, coating each piece well. Allow to marinate for at least 20 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
4. Arrange the chicken legs in a single layer in the baking dish, pouring any extra marinade over them.
5. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, basting with pan juices halfway through, until the skin is sticky and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds and scallions over the chicken before serving.

This honey garlic baked chicken leg recipe is ideal for family dinners or potlucks.

The sweet glaze paired with garlicky undertones makes it irresistible, and it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables.

Spicy Paprika Baked Chicken Legs

For those who love a bit of heat, this recipe combines smoked paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder for a bold flavor.

The spices form a crust that crisps beautifully in the oven, giving each bite a smoky kick.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for balance)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a baking sheet or use parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and brown sugar if using.
3. Pat the chicken dry and rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the legs.
4. Place the chicken on the baking sheet, spaced apart.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crisp and the meat reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This spicy paprika baked chicken leg recipe is a fiery, smoky option that adds excitement to the dinner table.

It pairs perfectly with cooling sides like coleslaw, cucumber salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Garlic Parmesan Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe takes inspiration from classic Italian flavors, combining garlic and parmesan cheese to create a savory crust that crisps up in the oven.

The result is a rich, cheesy chicken leg dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken legs with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Roll each chicken leg in the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres.
5. Place the coated legs on the baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) internally.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

These garlic parmesan baked chicken legs are crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

They make an excellent main dish served with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad.

Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Legs

This recipe balances sweetness with tang, using maple syrup and Dijon mustard to create a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

It’s a cozy fall-inspired dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil.
2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pat chicken legs dry and coat them generously in the glaze. Place them in the baking dish.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, basting halfway through with extra glaze from the pan.
5. The chicken should be golden and sticky when done, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with thyme leaves before serving.

These maple mustard glazed chicken legs are sweet, tangy, and comforting.

They are perfect for a fall dinner table and pair well with roasted squash, sweet potatoes, or wild rice.

Mediterranean Lemon Olive Chicken Legs

This recipe infuses chicken legs with bright Mediterranean flavors.

Lemon, olives, garlic, and herbs blend together to create a dish that is tangy, savory, and aromatic.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup pitted green olives
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Use a roasting pan or ovenproof dish.
2. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the marinade over the chicken legs, making sure each piece is well coated.
4. Place chicken in the roasting pan, scattering olives around the legs.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes until skin is crispy and golden, and meat reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These Mediterranean lemon olive chicken legs are zesty, savory, and bursting with flavor.

They make a light yet hearty dish that pairs well with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a Greek salad.

Classic BBQ Baked Chicken Legs

A family favorite, this recipe uses a smoky barbecue sauce to coat chicken legs before baking.

The sauce caramelizes in the oven, giving the chicken a sticky, finger-licking finish.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub onto chicken legs.
3. Place chicken in the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Brush chicken with barbecue sauce, then return to the oven for 15 minutes.
5. Brush with more sauce and bake for another 10 minutes, until caramelized and internal temp is 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

These BBQ baked chicken legs are juicy, tangy, and smoky.

They’re perfect with corn on the cob, coleslaw, or baked beans for a backyard-style dinner.

Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe highlights the classic flavor combination of lemon and black pepper.

It’s simple, zesty, and ideal for those who enjoy lighter, citrus-forward chicken dishes.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
• 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
3. Rub mixture all over chicken legs.
4. Place chicken on baking tray and roast for 40–45 minutes until skin is crisp and golden.
5. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Lemon pepper baked chicken legs are refreshing, bold, and flavorful. They’re perfect with rice pilaf, roasted potatoes, or a crisp side salad.

Teriyaki Baked Chicken Legs

This Asian-inspired recipe features a glossy teriyaki glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.

The sweet and salty flavors soak into the meat while baking, making it a comforting, flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• ½ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 tbsp green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking dish.
2. In a saucepan, whisk soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Simmer 5 minutes. For thicker sauce, stir in cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes.
3. Pour sauce over chicken legs in the baking dish, turning to coat.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, basting halfway through.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.

Teriyaki baked chicken legs are savory, sweet, and glossy.

They pair perfectly with steamed rice, sautéed greens, or stir-fried vegetables.

Buffalo Style Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe gives chicken legs the same fiery kick as traditional buffalo wings, but without the need for frying.

The tangy, spicy coating makes them perfect for game nights and parties.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tbsp chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Rub chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake for 35 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix buffalo sauce with melted butter.
5. After 35 minutes, brush sauce onto chicken and return to oven for 10 minutes.
6. Garnish with chives and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Buffalo baked chicken legs are spicy, tangy, and bold. They’re fantastic with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and creamy dipping sauces.

Dijon Herb Baked Chicken Legs

A refined yet simple recipe, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs create a savory coating that elevates chicken legs into a more elegant dish, while still keeping it easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat chicken legs with the mixture, ensuring they are well covered.
4. Arrange in the baking dish and bake 40–45 minutes until golden and fragrant.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Dijon herb baked chicken legs are aromatic, tangy, and savory.

They pair beautifully with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad.

Cajun Style Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe packs bold southern flavors with Cajun seasoning.

It’s smoky, spicy, and full of depth, making it an exciting option for anyone who loves robust, seasoned chicken.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Use a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Mix olive oil with Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub seasoning mix generously over the chicken legs.
4. Arrange on baking sheet and roast for 40–45 minutes until skin is crisp.
5. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cajun baked chicken legs are spicy, smoky, and bold.

They taste great with cornbread, coleslaw, or dirty rice for a complete southern-style meal.

Mediterranean Tomato Basil Chicken Legs

This recipe captures sunny Mediterranean flavors, using ripe tomatoes, basil, and garlic to create a light yet aromatic dish.

The juicy chicken legs soak up the savory tomato juices while baking.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Spread on the bottom of the dish.
3. Place chicken legs on top of the tomato mixture.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until chicken is golden and cooked through.
5. Sprinkle fresh basil over the dish before serving.

These Mediterranean tomato basil chicken legs are light, aromatic, and perfect with couscous, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables.

Crispy Ranch Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe brings the tangy, herby flavor of ranch seasoning into a crispy baked chicken leg dish.

It’s crunchy, flavorful, and loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken with olive oil, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Arrange on baking sheet and bake 40–45 minutes, until crisp and golden.
5. Serve warm with ranch dip on the side.

These crispy ranch chicken legs are crunchy, tangy, and savory. They’re great for casual dinners, game days, or potlucks.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Legs

Sweet balsamic glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving chicken legs a glossy, tangy-sweet coating that pairs well with roasted vegetables and grains.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil.
2. In a bowl, whisk balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat chicken with marinade and place in the dish.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, basting with glaze halfway through.
5. Serve with extra pan glaze drizzled over the top.

These balsamic glazed chicken legs are tangy, slightly sweet, and elegant enough for dinner parties.

Coconut Curry Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe infuses chicken legs with a creamy coconut curry marinade, creating tender, flavorful meat with a warm, aromatic kick.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Coat chicken legs and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Place in a baking dish and bake for 40–45 minutes, basting halfway through.
5. Garnish with cilantro before serving.

Coconut curry baked chicken legs are rich, fragrant, and pair perfectly with steamed rice or naan bread.

Smoky Chipotle Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe uses smoky chipotle peppers for a deep, spicy flavor.

The chicken legs develop a smoky crust in the oven while staying juicy inside.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce, chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Fresh lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet.
2. Mix olive oil, chipotle, paprika, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub mixture onto chicken legs thoroughly.
4. Arrange on baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, until crispy and cooked through.
5. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing.

Smoky chipotle baked chicken legs are bold and spicy, perfect with Mexican rice, beans, or grilled corn.

Italian Style Tomato Parmesan Chicken Legs

This dish combines the flavors of tomato, herbs, and parmesan cheese for an Italian-inspired baked chicken recipe that’s hearty and comforting.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a baking dish.
2. Rub chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken in dish and spoon tomato sauce over the top.
4. Bake for 35 minutes, then sprinkle parmesan cheese on top.
5. Bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Italian tomato parmesan chicken legs are cheesy, saucy, and comforting. They pair beautifully with spaghetti, garlic bread, or a side salad.

Honey Mustard Baked Chicken Legs

Sweet honey and tangy mustard create a golden glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, giving chicken legs a sticky, flavorful coating.

This dish is both comforting and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• ¼ cup honey
• 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil.
2. In a bowl, whisk honey, Dijon, yellow mustard, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat chicken legs with the sauce and arrange in the dish.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, basting with pan juices halfway through.
5. The glaze should be sticky and golden when finished.

Honey mustard baked chicken legs are sweet, tangy, and satisfying.

They pair wonderfully with roasted potatoes, rice, or fresh green beans.

Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Legs

This recipe uses simple ingredients—garlic and butter—for a rich, savory flavor.

The butter helps crisp the skin while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush mixture generously over chicken legs.
4. Place chicken on baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, until skin is crisp.
5. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Garlic butter baked chicken legs are rich, juicy, and irresistible.

They’re great with mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or crusty bread to soak up the juices.

Mediterranean Herb Yogurt Baked Chicken Legs

Yogurt marinade makes the chicken tender while Mediterranean herbs and spices infuse it with bright, fresh flavor.

This recipe creates juicy, flavorful chicken legs with a tangy twist.

Ingredients:

• 6 chicken legs
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken legs with marinade and refrigerate at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place marinated chicken on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Let rest before serving.

Mediterranean herb yogurt baked chicken legs are tender, tangy, and aromatic.

They’re perfect with couscous, roasted vegetables, or a fresh Greek salad.