What’s better than plain old chicken for dinner? Juicy, perfectly seasoned baked chicken legs and thighs!
These oven-baked chicken pieces are the kind of no-fuss meal that makes weeknight cooking so much easier. The skin gets nice and crispy while the meat stays tender and flavorful all the way through. It’s the type of recipe that’ll have everyone at the table reaching for seconds, and the leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any) taste just as good the next day.
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
For those seeking a vegetarian or vegan option, chicken thighs can be replaced with firm tofu or tempeh. These alternatives provide protein and can be seasoned similarly to chicken. Cut tofu or tempeh into thick slices and adjust cooking time as needed. Soy sauce can be substituted with coconut aminos or tamari for those avoiding soy or gluten. These options offer a similar umami flavor profile. Use the same amount as called for in the recipe. Garlic powder can be replaced with fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of fresh garlic for every 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder called for in the recipe. This substitution adds moisture, so adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45-60 minutes |
| Total Time | 55-75 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-900
- Protein: 80-90 g
- Fat: 50-60 g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10 g
Ingredients
- garlic powder
- 4 tsp soy sauce (I use Kikkoman for its rich umami)
- 8 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in for best flavor)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by arranging chicken thighs or leg quarters, skin side up, in a shallow baking dish.
Make sure the pieces are evenly spaced to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle garlic powder generously over each piece of chicken.
Following this, drizzle about 1/2 teaspoon of soy sauce on each piece to enhance the flavor and add a hint of umami.
Step 3: Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the baking dish with the seasoned chicken into the oven.
Allow the chicken to bake for 45 minutes to an hour.
Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks, and look for the skin to become crisp and brown, with the meat tender enough to fall off the bones.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken has reached your desired doneness, remove it from the oven.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful, tender chicken with your choice of side dishes.
