Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are a mouthwatering combination of crispy, golden chicken legs coated with a rich, savory garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your chicken drumsticks, making them flavorful and perfect for a family dinner or even a gathering with friends. The blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese creates a savory coating that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, and when roasted to perfection, the result is tender, juicy chicken with a flavorful crispy skin.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

2. Full of Flavor

The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan gives the chicken legs a savory, rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

3. Crispy Skin

Baking the chicken at the right temperature gives you a crispy, golden exterior, while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

4. Family-Friendly

Everyone loves chicken drumsticks, and the garlic Parmesan seasoning makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults alike.

5. Versatile

These chicken legs can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, making them a great addition to any meal.

Ingredients

• Chicken drumsticks
• Butter, melted
• Garlic, minced
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

• Add Herbs: For an extra layer of flavor, add some fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the butter mixture.
• Spicy Kick: If you prefer a little heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter and garlic mixture.
• Chicken Thighs: You can substitute the drumsticks with chicken thighs for a different cut of meat.
• Crispier Skin: For an even crispier texture, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2

In a small bowl, melt the butter and then stir in the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3

Place the chicken drumsticks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each drumstick with the garlic butter mixture, making sure each one is fully coated.

Step 4

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan cheese over the drumsticks, ensuring they’re evenly covered.

Step 5

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6

Remove the chicken from the oven, and sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give each drumstick enough space on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use freshly minced garlic rather than garlic powder.

How to Serve

• Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken legs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with a cold beverage like iced tea or a refreshing lemon soda to complement the savory flavors of the chicken.
• These chicken legs also make a great appetizer for parties or game-day snacks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover garlic Parmesan chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken drumsticks by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until hot. You can also reheat them in a skillet with a little bit of butter to maintain the crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs for this recipe. The cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the internal temperature.

2. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese, but fresh grated Parmesan will melt better and provide a richer flavor.

3. How can I make the chicken crispier?

To make the chicken crispier, you can broil it for the last few minutes of cooking or use a wire rack to elevate the chicken while baking.

4. How long do I cook the chicken for?

The chicken should be baked for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

5. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken by coating it in the garlic butter mixture and refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake it. However, it’s best to bake it fresh.

6. Can I add more garlic?

Yes, feel free to increase the amount of garlic to suit your taste, but be mindful that garlic burns easily, so don’t overcook it.

7. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

While you can cook the chicken in a slow cooker, it won’t get as crispy. You can finish it off under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp the skin.

8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), and the juices run clear.

9. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the added salt in the recipe. You may want to reduce or omit the added salt.

10. How should I store leftover chicken legs?

Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful skin and tender, juicy chicken. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick baking time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or a casual dinner. The rich, buttery garlic Parmesan coating adds a savory depth to the chicken, making every bite irresistible. Whether you serve them with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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