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Homemade Lemon-Garlic Roast Chicken Legs with Herbs recipe photo

Lemon-Garlic Roast Chicken Legs with Herbs

This Lemon-Garlic Roast Chicken Legs with Herbs recipe is bursting with bright citrus and fragrant herbs for an easy, crowd-pleasing dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken legs bone-in, skin-on
  • 2 lemons zest and juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced finely
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper freshly ground
  • fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or roasting pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Microplane or grater
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Sharp knife
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the juice and zest of two fresh lemons, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Whisk everything together until well blended.
  2. Place the chicken legs in a shallow dish or a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
  3. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C), allowing it to fully preheat while the chicken soaks up the marinade.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Lay the chicken legs skin-side up, spacing them apart to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Halfway through, baste the chicken with the pan juices for extra flavor and moisture.
  6. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to infuse bright lemon flavor without overpowering.
  • Roast at a high temperature to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat.
  • Use fresh herbs for the best vibrant aroma; dried herbs won't be as flavorful.
  • Let the chicken rest after roasting to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to preserve crispiness.