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If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that feels both indulgent and homey, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Each chicken leg is bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, then baked to golden perfection and topped with a generous sprinkle of savory Parmesan cheese. The result is irresistibly crispy skin with tender, juicy meat inside—perfectly balanced with that unmistakable garlic and cheesy goodness that elevates every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special weekend treat, this recipe delivers big on flavor with straightforward simplicity that anyone can master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of essential ingredients, each element plays a vital role in creating those crave-worthy flavors and textures that make the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe so special.
- Chicken drumsticks: The star of the show, ideal for juicy, tender meat with crispy skin.
- Butter, melted: Provides richness and creates the perfect base for the garlic sauce.
- Garlic, minced: Gives the dish its punchy, aromatic profile that’ll make your mouth water.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding a sharp, nutty finish that’s essential.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare your baking sheet
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coating of grease. This prep step ensures the chicken cooks evenly while preventing sticking, making clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Whip up the garlic butter sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. This blend is what brings the whole dish together, infusing the chicken with deep, buttery garlic flavors that develop beautifully during baking.
Step 3: Coat each drumstick generously
Lay out your chicken legs on the prepared sheet, then brush each one with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. This step guarantees each bite is moist and packed with flavor under that golden crust.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan evenly over the chicken, letting it settle on the coated skin. The cheese will melt and form a slightly crispy, savory layer that’s utterly addictive.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the chicken skin is beautifully golden and crispy. The timing ensures tender meat inside while locking in flavor and juiciness.
Step 6: Finish with a Parmesan flourish and serve hot
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of Parmesan on top of each chicken leg for that final fresh burst of sharp, cheesy goodness. Serve immediately while the skin is crisp and the flavors vibrant.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or basil makes a fantastic, colorful garnish, adding brightness that pairs beautifully with the rich Parmesan and garlic. A squeeze of lemon juice also brings a subtle tang that lifts the overall flavor.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe goes wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. These sides help balance the savory, buttery notes with fresh and comforting textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken legs on a wooden board alongside garlic bread slices and a small bowl of marinara for dipping. You can also slice the meat off the bone to create a flavorful chicken salad with fresh herbs and lemon zest, transforming leftovers into a new favorite meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Freezing
If you want to save the chicken for longer, freeze the cooked legs in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and thaw quickly in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To keep the skin crispy when reheating, place the chicken legs on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that perfect texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe?
Absolutely! While drumsticks are fantastic for their juicy texture and crispy skin, chicken thighs or wings can also work well. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute butter with olive oil and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The garlic butter sauce flavor is still incredible even without traditional dairy products.
How can I make the chicken skin extra crispy?
Patting the chicken legs dry before coating them with the garlic butter helps. Also, baking them at a high temperature like 400°F allows the skin to crisp nicely without drying out the meat.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can coat the chicken with the garlic butter mixture and Parmesan, then cover and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. This allows the flavors to deepen, making the finished dish even tastier.
What’s a good dipping sauce to serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs?
A creamy ranch or tangy marinara sauce pairs beautifully, offering a cool or zesty contrast that complements the rich garlic and Parmesan flavors.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe. It’s a gorgeous blend of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting and delicious. Give it a try and I promise it will become one of those go-to meals you look forward to making again and again—it’s that good!
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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs recipe that features tender chicken drumsticks coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and baked to golden perfection with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner that serves six.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 chicken drumsticks
Garlic Butter Sauce
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic (about 1 tablespoon), minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to create a flavorful sauce.
- Coat the Chicken: Arrange the chicken drumsticks evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Using a brush, generously coat each drumstick with the garlic butter mixture to infuse flavor throughout the meat.
- Add Parmesan: Evenly sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the coated chicken drumsticks, making sure each piece is covered with this savory topping.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the drumsticks for 35 to 40 minutes. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese on top of each drumstick. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for better flavor and texture.
- You can substitute butter with olive oil for a lighter option.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
