Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs recipe features juicy, flavorful chicken drumsticks coated in a savory blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian spices, then baked to golden perfection. Easy to prepare and packed with rich flavors, it’s a delicious main course perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 chicken drumsticks, skin on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels to ensure the seasoning adheres well. Place them in a large bowl for seasoning.
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Stir well to mix all the flavors.
- Coat the Chicken: Pour the seasoning mixture over the drumsticks and toss until each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful oil and spices.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the chicken legs. Gently press the cheese onto the surface so it sticks well.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the chicken legs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t crowded. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. Halfway through cooking, turn the drumsticks once to promote even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Optional Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, switch the oven to broil and cook the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place the drumsticks on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese as it melts and browns better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can brighten the flavors.