Buttermilk Old Bay Chicken Legs

Old Bay Chicken Legs are made with the perfect combination of zesty Old Bay seasoning, tangy buttermilk, and aromatic onion and garlic powders! Whether you prefer them cooked in the air fryer, oven-baked, or deep-fried method, this recipe has got you covered.

Rich, flavorful and oh-so-easy, you're going to love these Old Bay Chicken Legs! Oven-baked or cooked in the air fryer.

By using Old Bay seasoning in this recipe, you'll elevate the taste of your chicken legs to a whole new level, giving your taste buds a delightful explosion of flavors

There's something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken drumsticks that have been infused with a medley of flavorful spices.

In this recipe, we're taking chicken legs to a whole new level of deliciousness with the help of Old Bay seasoning, buttermilk, onion powder, and garlic powder.

It turns chicken legs into something special, but you only need a few simple ingredients.

If you love those tender dark meat drumsticks, then be sure to also try Crispy Deep Fried Chicken Legs, Honey Mustard Chicken Legs, or BBQ Chicken Legs In Oven. I love this versatile cut of poultry! They're perfect for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or a cookout.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to make
• Serving Suggestions
• More Chicken Recipes
• Recipe Tips
• Food Safety Tips
• 📖 Recipe
• 💬 Comments

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Old Bay seasoning is a classic blend of herbs and spices that originated in Maryland, USA. It adds a zesty and tangy kick to any dish, infusing it with a unique blend of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and more. Try making your own homemade old bay seasoning.
• Whether you're hosting a casual gathering, planning a family meal, or even preparing a quick weeknight dinner, Old Bay Chicken Legs are an ideal choice. The recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion and can be easily adjusted to accommodate different spice preferences.
• Buttermilk is a secret weapon when it comes to achieving moist and tender chicken. When used as a marinade, the acidity in buttermilk helps to break down the proteins, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken leg. The tangy, creamy flavor of buttermilk perfectly complements the zesty and aromatic Old Bay seasoning.

Ingredients

You only need simple pantry ingredients for this recipe!

• Chicken legs
• Buttermilk
• Old Bay seasoning
• Olive oil
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

See the recipe card for quantities and method.

How to make

Follow these step-by-step instructions, then scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.

In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, Old Bay seasoning, oil, onion powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the chicken legs to the marinade and gently stir to coat evenly.

Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Air Fry

• Remove the chicken legs from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Place the chicken legs in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each drumstick.
• Cook the chicken legs in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Oven Bake

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with foil, leaving space between each piece.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Deep Fry

• Heat about 1" of oil into a large heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C).
• Carefully lower the chicken legs into the preheated oil and fry the chicken legs for about 12 minutes, turning each piece over halfway through, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Fry in batches if necessary.
• Once cooked, remove the chicken legs from the oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and place them on to a plate lined with paper towels to drain and rest.

Scroll down for the full ingredients list and method.

Serving Suggestions

To complete your Old Bay Chicken Legs meal, here are a few side dish suggestions that pair beautifully:

1. Coleslaw: The cool and crunchy texture of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy and flavorful chicken legs.
2. Cornbread: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread makes it a delightful accompaniment to the zesty flavors of Old Bay Chicken Legs.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as potatoes, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, adds a hearty and nutritious element to the meal.
4. Velveeta Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge your taste buds with the rich and creamy goodness of macaroni and cheese, which complements the flavors of the chicken legs perfectly.
5. KFC Macaroni Salad - Make the fast food fave at home!

More Chicken Recipes

Recipe Tips

• To ensure that the chicken legs are cooked all the way through and are safe to eat, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. The ideal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure it doesn't touch the bone.
• When frying chicken legs, it's important not to overcrowd the pot, baking sheet, or fryer.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle and get them nice and juicy, and the coating to set.

Food Safety Tips

• Before cooking, wash your hands and countertops.
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food that has touched raw meat.
• Always wash your hands after touching raw meat.
• Never leave cooking food unattended.
• Keep those pot/pan handles turned in away from the front of the stove.
• When cooking at high temperatures, use oils with a high smoking point, to avoid harmful compounds.
• Ensure you have good ventilation when cooking on gas.
• Put foods in the fridge or freezer within 2 hours of cooking. Reduce this to within 1 hour if it is 90 degrees or hotter outside.
• Safely thaw food in the fridge, under cold running water, or in the microwave.
• To ensure food is cooked through, it's best to use a food thermometer. Be aware that you can’t always tell by looking.

Cook to safe temperatures:

• Beef, Pork, Lamb: 145 °F
• Fish: 145 °F
• Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Ground Lamb: 160 °F
• Turkey, Chicken, Duck: 165 °F

Chicken safety: Wash hands, surfaces, and utensils thoroughly after handling raw chicken. Before serving, ensure the chicken is piping hot and thoroughly cooked, juices run clear and no pink color remains.

Be sure to subscribe to my free Newsletter and follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more tasty recipes!

📖 Recipe