To bake chicken legs, the general recommended time is about 40 to 45 minutes at an oven temperature of 400°F to 425°F (204°C to 218°C), flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping
. Here are key points for baking chicken legs:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F to 425°F.
- Arrange chicken legs on a foil-lined baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping once around the halfway mark.
- The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat, but cooking to 185°F-195°F can yield more tender, juicy meat with crispier skin
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute
If baking at slightly lower temperatures (around 390°F), the time may be closer to 20-30 minutes, but always verify doneness with a meat thermometer
. In summary, bake chicken legs at 400-425°F for about 40-45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F or higher for optimal tenderness and crispness
