Quick and Easy Herb Butter Roasted Chicken Legs

January 15, 2025

Get ready to turn chicken night into a flavor-packed sensation! These herb butter roasted chicken legs are juicy, golden, and oh-so-simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a dish that wows every time. Let’s make your kitchen smell like pure magic!

5.0 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Ah, chicken night—a household staple that deserves a little extra pizzazz! Today, I’m introducing you to one of my favorite go-to recipes: Quick and Easy Herb Butter Roasted Chicken Legs. This dish is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of. It’s comforting yet elevated, simple but bursting with flavor, and it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that could make your neighbors knock on your door. And the best part? It’s so easy, even if you’re juggling a million things, you can still pull off a dinner that feels like a big win.

Quick and Easy Herb Butter Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe

What makes this recipe absolutely shine is its rich simplicity. The star of the show is a luscious herb-infused butter that coats every inch of those succulent chicken legs. We’re talking garlic, fresh parsley, a sprinkle of thyme, and just a whisper of lemon zest for brightness. The butter melts right into the chicken as it roasts, creating a golden, crispy skin while keeping the meat incredibly juicy. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but requires shockingly little effort. Plus, you can make it with ingredients you likely have on hand—or mix up the herbs based on what’s in your fridge!

Now let’s talk tips for nailing this recipe like a pro! First, pat your chicken legs dry with paper towels. This one small step makes a huge difference in getting that coveted crispy skin. Secondly, don’t skimp on seasoning—rub that herb butter under the skin as well as on top for maximum flavor impact. A quick preheat of the pan in the oven before adding the chicken can also give you a head start on a beautifully roasted finish. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, toss some potatoes or root veggies around the chicken; they’ll soak up all those buttery, herby drippings while they roast to perfection.

Trust me, you’re going to want to try this one. These herb butter roasted chicken legs are perfect served with a side salad, steamed green beans, or even a warm crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of that buttery goodness. If you’re in the mood to experiment, try swapping parsley for dill or adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a little extra depth. This is one of those dishes you’ll keep coming back to—it’s comforting, satisfying, and absolutely delightful. So go ahead, let your oven do the magic, and treat yourself to the easiest gourmet-style dinner ever!

Keywords: easy roasted chicken recipes, herb butter chicken legs, best quick chicken recipes, juicy chicken dinner ideas, crispy roasted chicken skin tips, weeknight chicken dinner ideas.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

40 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•4 chicken legs (thighs and drumsticks)
•4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
•2 garlic cloves, minced
•1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
•1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
•1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
•1 teaspoon lemon zest
•1 teaspoon salt
•1/2 teaspoon black pepper
•1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper to create the herb butter.
3
Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels and rub them with olive oil.
4
Using your fingers, gently loosen the skin of each chicken leg and spread about a tablespoon of the herb butter underneath the skin. Rub any remaining herb butter on top of the skin.
5
Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, ensuring they're not overcrowded.
6
Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
7
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories

320 calories

Protein

27g

Carbs

Fat

22g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. Use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Dried herbs are more concentrated, so reduce the quantities slightly compared to fresh herbs.

Q: What if I don't have lemon zest?

A: If you don't have lemon zest, you can use a small splash of lemon juice for a similar citrus flavor. Alternatively, orange zest can work as a substitute for a slightly sweeter citrus note.

Q: How can I ensure the chicken skin gets crispy?

A: To achieve crispy skin, make sure the chicken is patted dry before applying the olive oil and herb butter. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as proper air circulation is key to crisping. If needed, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Q: Can I use chicken breasts or wings instead of legs?

A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or wings. Adjust the cooking time accordingly: chicken breasts may take 25-30 minutes depending on their size, while wings may take 20-25 minutes. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep in mind that chicken breasts may be less juicy compared to legs.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain crispy skin.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance by rubbing it with the herb butter and storing it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before roasting to ensure even cooking.

Q: What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

A: This roasted chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it alongside rice pilaf or crusty bread to soak up the herb butter drippings.

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