how long do chicken legs take to bake
The baking time for chicken legs can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the legs, the oven temperature, and the level of doneness desired. Here are some general guidelines for baking chicken legs:
At 400°F (200°C):
- Small to medium-sized chicken legs (about 1-1.5 pounds or 0.5-0.7 kg): 25-35 minutes
- Medium-sized chicken legs (about 1.5-2 pounds or 0.7-0.9 kg): 35-45 minutes
- Large chicken legs (about 2-2.5 pounds or 0.9-1.1 kg): 45-55 minutes
At 375°F (190°C):
- Small to medium-sized chicken legs (about 1-1.5 pounds or 0.5-0.7 kg): 30-40 minutes
- Medium-sized chicken legs (about 1.5-2 pounds or 0.7-0.9 kg): 40-50 minutes
- Large chicken legs (about 2-2.5 pounds or 0.9-1.1 kg): 50-60 minutes
At 350°F (175°C):
- Small to medium-sized chicken legs (about 1-1.5 pounds or 0.5-0.7 kg): 40-50 minutes
- Medium-sized chicken legs (about 1.5-2 pounds or 0.7-0.9 kg): 50-60 minutes
- Large chicken legs (about 2-2.5 pounds or 0.9-1.1 kg): 60-70 minutes
It’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Additionally, you can also check for doneness by looking for the following signs:
- The chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- The skin is golden brown and crispy.
- The meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Remember to always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
