Baked Chicken Legs and Vegetables
Hey there, my lovely friends! Today, I’m super excited to share one of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes: Baked Chicken Legs and Vegetables! This dish is all about simplicity and heartiness, and it takes me back to cozy family dinners at home. There’s just something magical about the aroma of seasoned chicken and roasted veggies filling the house, isn’t there?
I still remember the first time I made this recipe for my friends. We had just finished a long hike, and everyone was starving. As the chicken was baking, the smells wafted through the house, and I could practically hear my friends’ stomachs growling. The best part? It was so easy to prepare, and everyone raved about it! Now it’s become my go-to for gatherings, weekday meals, or just when I want to spoil my loved ones a little. So, are you ready? Let’s get cooking!
What’s in Baked Chicken Legs and Vegetables?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish so scrumptious:
Chicken Legs: The star of the show! I prefer drumsticks because they’re juicy and flavorful and they become incredibly tender when baked.
Potatoes: I use medium potatoes, quartered. They soak up all the delicious flavors during baking and pair perfectly with the chicken.
Carrots: Large chunks of carrots add sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. Plus, who doesn’t love a good carrot?
Onion: I love using a medium onion cut into wedges. It gets caramelized in the oven, which adds a rich depth of flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps everything roast beautifully and adds a healthy fat component. It’s my go-to for most baking.
Garlic Powder: I like to keep it simple and use garlic powder for that savory kick.
Spices (Paprika, Thyme, Salt, Pepper): These bring the warmth and flavor to the chicken, making it incredibly appetizing.
Chicken Broth: This is the secret sauce! It keeps everything moist while infusing chickeny goodness into the vegetables.
Fresh Parsley: Just a sprinkle of this on top before serving brings freshness and a touch of color!
Is Baked Chicken Legs and Vegetables Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! This recipe is not just delicious, but it has its health perks too:
Chicken Legs: These are a great source of protein, which helps with muscle building and recovery.
Potatoes: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, potatoes can keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Carrots: Let’s not forget these beauties! They’re packed with beta-carotene, which is great for your eyesight.
Olive Oil: Packed with healthy fats, it can help reduce inflammation and is a great heart-healthy addition.
On the flip side, if you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth to keep the dish heart-friendly. But overall, this dish is perfectly balanced for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
– 4 chicken legs (drumsticks)
– 4 medium potatoes, quartered
– 3 large carrots, cut into chunks
– 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*(Serves 4)*
How to Make Baked Chicken Legs and Vegetables?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is so important for getting that perfect roast!
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all up.
3. Add the chicken legs to the bowl and toss them to coat evenly with the spice mixture. Don’t be shy! Get those hands in there!
4. In a large baking dish, arrange the quartered potatoes, chunks of carrots, and onion wedges.
5. Place the seasoned chicken legs on top of the veggies like royalty—this is their throne!
6. Pour the chicken broth around the chicken and vegetables. This will keep everything nice and moist.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 40 minutes.
8. After that magic time has passed, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/75°C) and the veggies are tender.
9. Feeling fancy? Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to get that crispy skin!
10. Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top, and serve warm. Enjoy every bite!
Serving Suggestions for a Cozy Meal
To make this dish even more special, I like pairing it with some homemade bread or a simple green salad. You could also toss together a zesty coleslaw if you’re itchier for something crunchy! And I won’t tell anyone if you whip up some extra gravy—no one can resist that!
So, my friends, as you head to the kitchen, I encourage you to give this one a try. Trust me, it’s going to become a cherished recipe in your household. When you savor that first bite and see the joy on your loved ones’ faces, you’ll know you’ve hit the jackpot! Can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Happy cooking!
