Chicken Leg

Chicken legs, also known as drumsticks, are a flavorful and economical cut of poultry. They consist of the lower portion of the chicken's leg, offering a satisfyingly meaty texture and a rich, savory flavor. Chicken legs have a higher fat content compared to chicken breasts, which contributes to their juicy tenderness when cooked. The skin, when properly prepared, becomes deliciously crispy. They are typically reddish-pink in their raw state and turn golden brown when cooked.

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.

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.

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