chicken leg

Chicken Leg

Chicken leg is a flavorful and juicy cut of poultry that includes both the thigh and drumstick portions. Known for its tender, dark meat and rich taste, chicken leg is a versatile ingredient that can be roasted, grilled, fried, or braised. Its skin, when cooked, becomes crispy and golden, while the meat remains moist and succulent. This cut is a favorite in cuisines worldwide due to its ability to absorb marinades and spices, making it ideal for a variety of dishes. Chicken legs are also an economical choice, offering a balance of taste and affordability.

Common Uses

  • Chicken legs are excellent for grilling, delivering a smoky flavor and crispy skin. Marinate them beforehand for enhanced taste and tenderness, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Braising chicken legs results in incredibly tender and succulent meat that falls off the bone. Slow-cooking in a flavorful liquid like wine, broth, or tomato sauce allows the meat to absorb the flavors, making it perfect for stews and casseroles.
  • Chicken legs are ideal for roasting in the oven with herbs, vegetables, and spices. Roasting brings out their natural flavors and creates a crispy skin. Season generously and roast at a high temperature for best results.
  • Use chicken legs to make flavorful chicken stock or broth. Simmer them in water with vegetables and herbs to extract the rich flavors and nutrients, resulting in a delicious and nourishing base for soups and sauces.
  • Deep frying chicken legs is a classic preparation method that yields crispy skin and juicy meat. Season generously with spices and coat with flour or breadcrumbs before frying for a satisfyingly crunchy texture.
  • Chicken legs can be used to make chicken leg confit, which is a French method of preserving the chicken leg with salt and cooking it in its own fat for long period of time at low temperature.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

215.0kcal (10.75%)

Protein

27.0g (54%)

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

7.1g

Unhealthy Fat

3.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Excellent source of lean protein, vital for muscle building and repair.
  • Rich in essential nutrients like iron and zinc, supporting a healthy immune system.
  • Contains B vitamins, crucial for energy production and nerve function.
  • Provides collagen, which can contribute to skin elasticity and joint health.
  • Source of phosphorus, important for bone health and energy metabolism.

Chefadora AI is here.

Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.

Storage Tips

To maximize freshness, store raw chicken legs in the refrigerator immediately after purchase, ideally in the coldest part. Use within 1-2 days or freeze for longer storage (up to 9 months). When freezing, wrap tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Thaw frozen chicken legs in the refrigerator – never at room temperature – to minimize bacterial growth. Cooked chicken legs should also be refrigerated promptly and consumed within 3-4 days.

Background Squiggy
Chefadora App

Get cooking with the Chefadora App.

Available now for early access users.

Download on the App StoreDownload on the App Store
chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia