How To Cook Chicken Legs On Stove

How To Cook Chicken Legs On Stove

Chicken legs are a delicious and versatile protein option that can be cooked in various ways. If you’re looking for a quick and easy method, cooking chicken legs on the stove is a fantastic option. Not only is it faster than cooking them in the oven, but it also allows you to infuse the chicken with incredible flavors. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking juicy and flavorful chicken legs on the stove.

Ingredients:

• Chicken legs
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Optional marinade or sauce of your choice (e.g., BBQ sauce, teriyaki sauce)

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Legs

Start by rinsing the chicken legs under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any excess moisture and ensure a crispier result. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly over the chicken legs, making sure to coat all sides. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Step 2: Heat a Pan

Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Allow the pan to heat up for a couple of minutes until the oil is shimmering.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken Legs

Place the seasoned chicken legs in the hot pan, skin side down. Let them sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden brown crust. This initial searing helps seal in the juices and adds a delightful crispiness to the chicken legs.

Step 4: Optional Salivation with Marinade or Sauce

If you desire an extra flavor boost, you can baste the chicken legs with a marinade or sauce of your choice. Brush the marinade or sauce onto the chicken legs with a basting brush during the last few minutes of cooking. This step will enhance the taste and make your chicken legs even more delicious.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Legs

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan with a lid. Allow the chicken legs to cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking them covered will ensure that they are cooked evenly and remain moist throughout.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken legs are fully cooked, remove them from the pan and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve them hot and enjoy the succulent and flavorful chicken legs straight from the stove.

Cooking chicken legs on the stove is a convenient method that delivers tasty results in a short amount of time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

So, the next time you have some chicken legs on hand, fire up your stove and give this cooking method a try. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create juicy and mouthwatering chicken legs that will please your taste buds and impress your loved ones.