how long do i 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 (about 1-1.5 pounds).
  • Bake for 45-55 minutes for larger legs (about 2-2.5 pounds).

Boneless Chicken Legs:

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Bake for 20-30 minutes for small to medium-sized legs (about 1-1.5 pounds).
  • Bake for 35-45 minutes for larger legs (about 2-2.5 pounds).

Internal Temperature:

  • Make sure the chicken legs reach an internal temperature of at least 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 (e.g., 375°F or 190°C) for a longer period of time (e.g., 45-60 minutes), but this may result in drier meat.

Remember to always check the chicken legs for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the leg. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can check for doneness by cutting into the leg; the juices should run clear, and the meat should be white and tender.

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