how long to bake chicken legs
The baking time for chicken legs depends on several factors, including the oven temperature, the size of the chicken legs, and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Here are some general guidelines for baking chicken legs:
Bone-in Chicken Legs:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 30-40 minutes for small to medium-sized legs (1-1.5 pounds).
- Bake for 45-55 minutes for large legs (1.5-2.5 pounds).
- Bake for 60-70 minutes for extra-large legs (2.5-3.5 pounds).
Boneless Chicken Legs:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 20-30 minutes for small to medium-sized legs (1-1.5 pounds).
- Bake for 30-40 minutes for large legs (1.5-2.5 pounds).
- Bake for 40-50 minutes for extra-large legs (2.5-3.5 pounds).
Internal Temperature:
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Tips:
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier.
- Season the chicken legs with your favorite herbs and spices before baking.
- You can also bake chicken legs at a lower temperature (375°F or 190°C) for a longer period of time (45-60 minutes) for a more tender and fall-off-the-bone texture.
Remember to always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it is cooked to a safe temperature.
