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.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Legs
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!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking or Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
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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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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½ teaspoon paprika
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¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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½ 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.