Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken drumsticks with a mouthwatering garlic parmesan coating. This recipe combines simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings. The garlic-infused olive oil and parmesan blend create a crispy, golden exterior while keeping the chicken inside juicy and perfectly seasoned. Paired with roasted Yukon Gold potatoes, this dish offers a balanced meal that is both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring much time or effort.

What makes this dish so irresistible is its perfect harmony of rich flavors and easy preparation. The addition of lemon juice brightens up the robust flavors of garlic and parmesan, while the herbs add depth. This recipe works great for any night of the week, and it pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. It’s also versatile, allowing for easy substitutions or additions based on what you have on hand. If you’re looking for a meal that satisfies the whole family, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs recipe will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients

With just a few pantry staples, you can create a flavorful meal that doesn’t require complicated steps. From olive oil to garlic and Parmesan, this recipe uses ingredients that are easy to find and inexpensive.

2. Quick and Easy

This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a hearty dish without the hassle.

3. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The garlic, Parmesan, and herbs create a savory, aromatic experience while the lemon juice adds a touch of brightness. The potatoes balance the richness of the chicken, making the entire meal well-rounded.

4. Crispy and Juicy Chicken

The combination of olive oil, spices, and Parmesan gives the chicken a beautifully crispy, golden exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside.

5. Versatile and Customizable

This recipe is flexible enough for you to swap out herbs or add more ingredients. You can experiment with different seasonings or even switch to different cuts of chicken, like thighs, if preferred.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Lemon (juiced)
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic (minced)
• Smoked paprika
• Dried oregano
• Dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Yukon Gold potatoes (halved)
• Chicken drumsticks

Variations

• Add Fresh Herbs: You can use fresh thyme and oregano for an even fresher, vibrant flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for some heat.
• Different Potatoes: Substitute Yukon Gold potatoes with any other type of potato, such as Russet or red potatoes.
• Cheese Varieties: Swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier flavor.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the seasoning for extra citrus flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the potatoes

Toss the halved Yukon Gold potatoes with a bit of olive oil, salt, pepper, and some of the dried herbs (oregano and thyme). Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Season the chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and remaining dried herbs. Coat the chicken drumsticks with this mixture, ensuring they’re well covered.

Step 4: Arrange the chicken and potatoes

Place the seasoned chicken drumsticks on the baking sheet next to the potatoes. Ensure there’s enough space between the chicken and potatoes for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Make Sure to Preheat: Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and gets that crispy exterior.

2. Pat the Chicken Dry: Patting the drumsticks dry before seasoning them helps achieve a crispier skin.

3. Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh minced garlic will give the dish a stronger, more aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

4. Check the Potatoes: Potatoes can take slightly longer to cook, so check them and flip them halfway through baking for an even crisp.

5. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.

How to Serve

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are perfect when served with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad. You can pair it with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a tangy cucumber salad. For a heartier meal, serve with rice or a side of buttery corn on the cob.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooked chicken and potatoes tightly in foil or freezer bags. They will stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven until thoroughly heated.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to get the chicken skin crispy again. You can also reheat in the microwave if you’re in a hurry, though it may not maintain the crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the thighs.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to use any hard cheese, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, if you prefer.

3. Can I use other potatoes?

Yes, other types of potatoes like Russet or red potatoes can be used. Just ensure they are cut into evenly sized pieces.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in the olive oil mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. Can I grill this instead of baking?

Absolutely! You can grill the chicken drumsticks on medium heat for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.

6. How can I make the chicken crispier?

For a crispier texture, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

7. Is there a substitute for olive oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted butter as a substitute for olive oil.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Make sure to bake at the correct temperature and let the chicken rest after baking to lock in the juices.

9. Can I add other spices?

Yes, feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, rosemary, or paprika for more flavor options.

10. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of halved ones?

Yes, you can use whole small potatoes, but they may need to bake for a little longer. Just check with a fork for tenderness.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines all the best flavors in one pan. With its crispy chicken, tender potatoes, and rich, savory garlic parmesan seasoning, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or simply need a tasty weeknight meal, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy!

Print