Delicious, tender baked chicken legs smothered in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken legs (drumsticks)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken legs dry with paper towels and season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken legs and sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Combine and Bake: Return the seared chicken legs to the skillet, ensuring they are well coated with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken legs are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The sauce should be bubbly and slightly thickened.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious baked chicken legs with cream! Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of vegetables for a complete meal.
