Simple Roasted Chicken Legs in the Oven with French Spices
Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of French cuisine with this Oven-Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe featuring a tantalizing blend of Provence spice mix, dried rosemary, garlic, and olive oil. This culinary masterpiece takes your taste buds on a journey through the picturesque Provencal countryside.Tender chicken legs are generously coated in a fragrant mixture of Provence spices, which typically include thyme, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, and other aromatic herbs. Dried rosemary adds a woodsy and earthy note, while garlic and olive oil infuse the dish with a luscious Mediterranean flair.As these succulent chicken legs roast to perfection, the harmonious marriage of flavors creates a dish that's both rustic and elegant. The Provence spice mix lends a bouquet of herbaceous notes, while the dried rosemary provides depth and character. The garlic and olive oil offer a delicate richness that ties it all together.This Oven-Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe with French Spices is a true celebration of French culinary traditions, transporting your palate to the sun-kissed landscapes of Provence. It's a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication, perfect for any occasion when you want to savor the essence of France on your plate.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 50 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine French
Servings 6 servings
Calories
- 50/1.5 (oz/kg) 6 chicken leg quarters
- some salt and ground black pepper to taste
- ½ tsp Provence spice mix
- ½ tsp rosemary powder (optional)
- 4-6 garlic cloves or to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
place the chicken legs on a tray.
rub the chicken legs with salt all over.
sprinkle over some Provence spice mix.
sprinkle over some rosemary powder if used.
grind over some black pepper to taste.
sprinkle the chopped garlic over the chicken quarters.
pour some water into the tray (about half a glass or so.)
pour the olive oil over the chicken leg quarters.
place the tray in the oven at 230C/440F for 45-60 min or until the skin is golden and the chicken is soft inside the thickest part.
remove the tray from the oven, rest for about 5-10 minutes, then serve the oven-roasted chicken legs with your preferred side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
1. Pat the Chicken Legs Dry: Before seasoning, ensure that the chicken legs are dry. Use paper towels to pat them thoroughly. Moisture on the surface can hinder the development of a crispy skin, so dry chicken legs allow for better browning and texture.
2. Evenly Coat with Seasonings: To ensure an even distribution of flavors, you can alternatively mix the Provence spice blend, dried rosemary, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl and then rub it generously over the chicken legs. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny for a well-balanced taste.
3. Marinate for Enhanced Flavor: If you have time, for a more profound flavor, marinate the chicken legs in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes before roasting. This allows the herbs and spices to infuse the meat, resulting in a more aromatic and savory dish.
4. Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve perfectly cooked chicken legs, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Roast the chicken until it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat. This ensures that the chicken is both safe to eat and wonderfully juicy.
5. Let Them Rest: After removing the chicken legs from the oven, let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in tender and succulent chicken. Plus, it gives you time to prepare any accompanying side dishes.
Can I use a different cut of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use a different cut of chicken, such as chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as different cuts may require slightly longer or shorter roasting times.
What is in the Provence spice mix, and can I make it at home?
The Provence spice mix typically includes a blend of herbs like thyme, marjoram, oregano, rosemary, and other aromatic seasonings. You can create your own Provence spice mix by combining these dried herbs in equal parts. Alternatively, you can find pre-made Provence spice blends at many grocery stores.
Can I use fresh rosemary instead of dried rosemary?
Yes, you can use fresh rosemary in this recipe. Fresh rosemary has a slightly different flavor profile, so you may need to use more of it compared to dried rosemary. Simply chop the fresh rosemary finely and use it in the seasoning mixture.
Can I roast vegetables alongside the chicken legs in the same pan?
Roasting vegetables alongside the chicken legs is a fantastic idea to create a complete meal. Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers work well. Just be mindful of their cooking times, as some vegetables may need to go into the oven earlier to ensure they’re fully cooked.
How do I ensure the chicken legs are cooked to perfection and not overcooked?
To ensure your chicken legs are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Roast the chicken legs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat. This way, you’ll avoid overcooking, which can result in dry chicken.
➡️ When you only have a few chicken quarters and you wish to spend a little time in the kitchen but still want to cook a tasty weeknight dinner, choose the recipe I offer you over here! You will definitely not be disappointed and I think you will use it often after you enjoy some roasted chicken legs like you have never tasted before! Enjoy cooking oven-roasted chicken legs from scratch! For additional info, read more here.
