To bake chicken legs, the cooking time varies depending on the oven temperature. Generally:
- At 400°F, bake for about 40-45 minutes.
- At 375°F, bake for about 45-55 minutes.
- At 350°F, bake for about 50-60 minutes.
- Using convection or higher temperatures like 425°F can reduce time to about 35-40 minutes.
The chicken legs should be cooked until the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safety, but going higher (around 185-195°F) can make the meat more tender and juicy. It is often recommended to flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even crispiness. For crispier skin, broiling for a couple of minutes at the end is an option. Using a meat thermometer to check internal temperature is the best way to ensure proper doneness. In summary, baking chicken legs at 400°F for 40-45 minutes until the internal temperature is 165°F or higher is a reliable and common guideline.
