There’s nothing quite like a simple, home-cooked meal that comes together in one pan. Oven-baked chicken legs with potatoes are one of those dishes that are easy, satisfying, and full of flavor. The chicken turns tender and juicy, while the potatoes roast to a soft interior with slightly crisp edges, absorbing all the savory juices. It’s a reliable weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal that everyone can enjoy.
What Are Oven-Baked Chicken Legs and Potatoes?
Oven-baked chicken legs and potatoes are found in many home kitchens. The idea is simple, season bone-in chicken generously, roast it alongside potatoes, and let the oven do the heavy lifting. Chicken legs are especially suited to roasting because they stay moist and develop rich flavor even at high heat. Over time, this dish has become a staple for its reliability, affordability, and crowd-pleasing results.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Legs
- Use a large baking pan so the chicken legs aren’t crowded, allowing the skin to roast rather than steam.
- For extra flavor, lightly rub the seasoning directly onto the chicken skin instead of just sprinkling it on top.
- If you like crispier potatoes, give them a quick toss halfway through baking to expose new surfaces to the heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken legs?
Yes, chicken thighs work very well in this recipe and roast in a similar amount of time. Bone-in, skin-on thighs are the best substitute because they stay juicy and develop good color.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when the juices run clear, and the meat is no longer pink near the bone. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method, with an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). The skin should look golden and slightly crisp, not pale.
Can I add other vegetables to the pan?
This recipe welcomes additions like onions, carrots, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cut vegetables into sizes that cook at a similar rate to the potatoes. Softer vegetables can be added halfway through cooking to prevent over-roasting.
Why are my potatoes not crispy?
Potatoes may turn soft if the pan is overcrowded or if they’re not coated evenly with oil. Spreading them out in a single layer helps them roast rather than steam. Using a hot oven is also key, as lower temperatures won’t encourage browning.
Can I Freeze Oven-Baked Chicken Legs and Potatoes?
You can freeze the cooked chicken legs, but potatoes tend to change texture after freezing and reheating. So, freeze the chicken separately for up to 2 months, and if possible, prepare fresh potatoes when serving again.
How to Store Oven-Baked Chicken Legs and Potatoes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent excess moisture. Reheat in the oven to restore texture, especially for the potatoes, and avoid microwaving if you want to keep the chicken skin from turning soft.
Ingredients
How to Make Oven-Baked Hanging Chicken Legs and Potatoes
Place the chicken legs in a bowl and sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, oregano, and rosemary.
Place the chicken legs in a bowl and sprinkle them with salt, black pepper, oregano, and rosemary.
Rub the seasoning gently into the chicken and arrange them on the baking pan.
Rub the seasoning gently into the chicken and arrange them on the baking pan.
Peel and cut the potatoes, then toss them with oil, salt, black pepper, and rosemary.
Peel and cut the potatoes, then toss them with oil, salt, black pepper, and rosemary.
Bake for 35-40 minutes and serve.
Bake for 35-40 minutes and serve.
;Resize,width=767;)
