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Sweet & Smoky Chicken Legs Recipe

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4.8 from 66 reviews

These Sweet & Smoky Chicken Legs are a perfect blend of honey sweetness and bold smoky spices. Baked to juicy perfection with a crispy, caramelized skin, they make a delicious and easy meal served with rice and fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 12 chicken legs
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Garnish

  • Scallions or parsley for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet and Oven: Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's ready for baking the chicken.
  2. Mix Chicken with Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the chicken legs with honey, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and vegetable oil. Use your hands to thoroughly mix and coat each chicken leg evenly with the marinade.
  3. Arrange Chicken on Baking Sheet: Lay each coated chicken leg out individually on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon and drizzle any remaining marinade mixture from the bowl over the top of each leg to maximize flavor.
  4. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the chicken legs for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the skin has developed a rich golden color with slight caramelization.
  5. Baste the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven. Using a baster, collect the flavorful juices and sauce that have dripped onto the bottom of the sheet pan and baste the chicken legs to enhance moisture and taste.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle finely chopped scallions or parsley over the chicken legs for freshness and color, if desired. Serve hot with rice or your preferred sides and enjoy your delicious sweet and smoky chicken legs!

Notes

  • Make sure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • For extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked sea salt along with or instead of regular salt.
  • Adjust the chili powder quantity if you prefer more or less heat.
  • Using aluminum foil on the baking sheet helps with easier cleanup.
  • Scallions or parsley adds brightness but are optional based on preference.

Find it online: https://alinacooks.com/sweet-and-smoky-chicken-legs-recipe/