chicken leg recipe for dinner
- The Best chicken leg recipe for dinner
- Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Tomato Garlic Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Tomato Garlic Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Tomato Garlic Sauce
The Best chicken leg recipe for dinner
What I love most about this recipe is how satisfying it is for the whole family. Kids love the fun, bite-sized pieces, and adults appreciate the bold flavor without needing much extra effort. Plus, chicken legs are one of those affordable proteins that never disappoint—you can stretch them across a few meals or even freeze extras for another week. They’re also packed with protein and healthy fats, which keeps everyone full and energized. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these legs are a reliable crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring a little warmth to the table.
Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Tomato Garlic Sauce
A simple yet flavorful dinner featuring tender chicken legs coated in a light flour crust and simmered in a rich tomato-garlic sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal with minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ cup chicken broth
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 425°F. Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. -
2
In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and paprika. Dredge each chicken leg in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. -
3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken legs for 5 minutes per side until golden brown. -
4
Transfer chicken to a baking sheet. Pour minced garlic, tomato paste, oregano, and chicken broth into the skillet, simmering for 2 minutes to deglaze. -
5
Pour the sauce over the chicken legs and bake for 20–25 minutes, basting halfway, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and the sauce thickens.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Measuring cups
- Knife and cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Tomato Garlic Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Baked Chicken Legs with Tomato Garlic Sauce
How do I know when the chicken legs are fully cooked?
The chicken legs are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. You can also check for doneness by piercing the meat with a fork—it should be flaky and juicy, not pink or mushy.
Can I use bone-in or boneless chicken legs for this recipe?
Both work well, but bone-in legs add more flavor and moisture. If using boneless, trim any excess fat and season generously to compensate for the lack of natural juices.
What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?
A meat thermometer is the most reliable way, but you can estimate doneness by pulling the legs apart—if the meat is white and the bone is slightly pink, it needs more time. Avoid overcooking, as it can make the skin tough.
How should I handle extra sauce or gravy?
If you’ve made extra sauce, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Use it in sandwiches, pasta, or as a dip for veggies.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken legs overnight for deeper flavor, then cook as directed. Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of broth or oil to restore crispiness.
