Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are a savory, crispy, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for dinner, parties, or meal prep. Coated in a rich blend of garlic, butter, herbs, and parmesan cheese, these baked or grilled chicken legs come out golden and juicy every time. Simple to prepare but big on taste, they’re a guaranteed crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, cheesy, and garlicky coating
- Easy to make with pantry ingredients
- Oven-baked, air-fried, or grilled options
- Kid-friendly and great for family dinners
- Budget-friendly using chicken drumsticks
- Deliciously golden outside, juicy inside
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
- Perfect for meal prep or game day
- Freezer-friendly for easy planning
- No marinating needed—ready fast
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken legs (drumsticks)
- Garlic, minced
- Butter (or olive oil)
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Dried parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning
directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or prepare grill or air fryer if using alternative method).
- Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels and place in a large mixing bowl.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan, then stir in minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour garlic butter over the chicken legs and toss to coat.
- In a separate bowl, mix parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.
- Roll each chicken leg in the parmesan mixture until fully coated.
- Place chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add a spicy kick with crushed red pepper or cayenne
- Use fresh parsley or basil for a burst of herb flavor
- Swap butter for olive oil for a lighter version
- Coat with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan for extra crunch
- Try boneless chicken thighs for a faster-cooking option
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible to retain texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs or wings instead of legs?
Yes, the garlic parmesan coating works on any chicken cut—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I make the skin crispy in the oven?
Use a wire rack on your baking sheet and pat the chicken dry before coating.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (like parmesan) are gluten-free certified.
Do I have to use fresh garlic?
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
How do I know when chicken legs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer—legs are done at 165°F but slightly higher (175–180°F) makes them even juicier.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prep and season the chicken up to a day in advance, then bake when ready.
What sides go well with garlic parmesan chicken legs?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, or garlic bread all pair wonderfully.
How do I get the parmesan to stick?
The butter or oil helps the parmesan mixture adhere—press it firmly onto the chicken for best results.
Can I freeze cooked chicken legs?
Yes, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs are a simple yet impressive dish that combines bold flavor with crisp texture and juicy meat. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, these drumsticks are guaranteed to satisfy. With easy prep and endless serving possibilities, they’re a go-to recipe you’ll make again and again.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Legs
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These garlic parmesan chicken legs are tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and loaded with bold, cheesy flavor. Baked or air-fried until golden, then tossed in a buttery garlic parmesan coating, they’re a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients
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8 chicken drumsticks (about 2 pounds)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (or preheat air fryer to 380°F).
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Prep the chicken: Pat chicken legs dry with paper towels. Place in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
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Bake or air fry:
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Oven: Place drumsticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until the skin is crisp and internal temp hits 165°F.
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Air Fryer: Cook for 25–28 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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Make garlic parmesan coating: While chicken cooks, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and Parmesan in a large bowl.
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Toss to coat: Once chicken is cooked, add to the garlic butter mixture and toss to coat evenly.
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Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and more Parmesan, if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
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For extra crispy skin, let the chicken air-dry in the fridge (uncovered) for an hour before cooking.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.
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Works great with thighs or wings too.