The Best Roasted Chicken Legs and Potatoes

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The Best Roasted Chicken Legs and Potatoes – A One-Pan Wonder for Effortless Comfort Food

When it comes to wholesome, crowd-pleasing dinners, few meals deliver the same level of satisfaction as roasted chicken legs with golden, crispy potatoes. This dish combines juicy, flavorful chicken with perfectly roasted baby potatoes, all seasoned with a robust blend of herbs and spices. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this simple one-pan recipe is guaranteed to impress without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.

Why This Roasted Chicken Legs and Potatoes Recipe is a Must-Try

  • 🍗 Juicy and Crispy – The chicken legs roast to perfection, developing a crispy, golden skin while staying tender and moist inside.
  • 🥔 Perfectly Roasted Potatoes – Baby potatoes become deliciously crisp on the outside and buttery soft on the inside.
  • 🍽️ One-Pan Simplicity – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
  • 🕒 Quick Prep, Hands-Off Cooking – Just 10 minutes of prep, then let the oven do the rest.
  • 🌿 Herb-Infused Seasoning – A savory spice blend ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish serves 4–6 people and uses budget-friendly ingredients available at any grocery store.

  • 6 chicken legs (drumsticks or thighs – bone-in, skin-on preferred for best texture)
  • 1½ lbs baby potatoes, halved
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Ingredients

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Line a large sheet pan or baking dish with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup.

Step 2: Season the Chicken and Potatoes

  • In a large bowl, add the chicken legs and halved baby potatoes.
  • Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Toss everything together until the chicken and potatoes are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.

Step 3: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

  • Place the chicken legs on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up.
  • Arrange the potatoes around the chicken in a single layer, cut side down for better browning.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

  • Roast in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until:
    • The chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F),
    • The skin is crispy and golden,
    • And the potatoes are fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the edges.
  • Halfway through roasting, flip the potatoes for even browning.

Step 5: Optional Garnish

  • Remove the pan from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness..

Pro Tips for the Best Results

  • Dry the chicken well before seasoning – this ensures the skin gets crispy.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan – leave space between the ingredients so they roast, not steam.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken for safety and doneness.
  • Customize your spices – swap thyme for rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning for a new flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but you can round out your meal with:

  • A simple green salad – Add crunch and freshness to your plate.
  • Steamed green beans or asparagus – A healthy veggie side.
  • Garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls – Perfect for mopping up any pan juices.
  • Lemon wedges – Add a burst of brightness right before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

  • Make Ahead: You can season the chicken and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, then store in the fridge and roast when ready.
  • Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to keep the skin crispy, or microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Weekly Dinner Rotation

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this roasted chicken legs and potatoes recipe is an essential go-to. It’s budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and satisfies both comfort food cravings and nutritional needs. The crispy skin, juicy meat, and herb-roasted potatoes deliver classic, no-fuss flavor that your family will request again and again.

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