Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs recipe features juicy, tender chicken drumsticks coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with savory grated Parmesan cheese. Baked to golden perfection, these chicken legs offer a flavorful, crispy skin and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making it a simple yet delicious meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Toppings
- 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 make cleanup easier.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well blended to create a flavorful sauce for the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken drumsticks evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush each drumstick with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated for maximum flavor.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese over the coated chicken drumsticks, distributing evenly to ensure a cheesy crust forms during baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the drumsticks for 35–40 minutes. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy for safe and flavorful results.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of Parmesan cheese on top of each drumstick while still hot. Serve the chicken legs immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and garnish.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture compared to pre-grated varieties.
