Name: Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients: ½ calabaza; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and ground black pepper; ½ small lime; 4 tbsp hot sauce; 3 tbsp sweet paprika; 2 tsp honey; 8 oz Chicken Leg Quarters

Experience the blend of sweet, earthy calabaza and savory roasted chicken legs in this unique, mouth-watering dish. The balanced flavors and the warmth of the dish make it a perfect comfort food for any season.

Photos of Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe

This recipe features calabaza, a type of winter squash that might not be a regular in your kitchen. It's known for its sweet, slightly nutty flavor, similar to butternut squash. If you can't find it in your local supermarket, you can substitute it with butternut squash or even pumpkin.

Roasted Chicken Legs and Calabaza Ingredients

Calabaza: A type of winter squash with a sweet and slightly nutty flavor that complements the savory chicken legs.

Olive oil: Used to roast the calabaza and chicken and to help other flavors meld together.

Salt and ground black pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.

Small lime: Adds a tangy note that balances the sweet and spicy elements of the dish.

Hot sauce: Gives the dish a bit of heat. Adjust to taste.

Sweet paprika: Adds a sweet, smoky flavor to the dish.

Honey: Complements the heat from the hot sauce with a touch of sweetness.

Chicken leg quarters: The star of the dish with their juicy, savory meat.

One reader, Laughton Ordonez says:

The roasted chicken legs with calabaza recipe was a delightful surprise! The combination of tender chicken and perfectly roasted calabaza was a match made in heaven. The flavors were rich and savory, and the dish was incredibly satisfying. I'll definitely be making this recipe again!

Laughton Ordonez

Techniques Required for Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe

How to prepare calabaza: Cut the calabaza into wedges, clean out all seeds and pulp, and cut away the peels. Put the wedges flat in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper on each side.

How to make the sauce: Combine lime juice, hot sauce, paprika, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until well combined.

How to coat the chicken: Dry the chicken legs and toss them in the sauce until evenly coated.

How to check for doneness: Bake the chicken and calabaza at 450 degrees F for about 15 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink in the centers and the juices run clear. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone of a leg quarter should read 165 degrees F.

How To Make Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

These juicy roasted chicken legs serves a spicy and tangy dish, served alongside tender calabaza squash, for a filling meal!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

½calabaza
1tbspolive oil,or to taste
salt and ground black pepper,to taste
½small lime,juiced
4tbsphot sauce
3tbspsweet paprika
2tsphoney
8ozchicken leg quarters,(6 legs)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 475 degrees F.
Cut the calabaza into wedges, then clean out all seeds and pulp and cut away the peels. Put the wedges flat in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper on each side.
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
While the squash bakes, combine the lime juice, hot sauce, paprika, honey, salt, and pepper.
Dry the chicken legs and toss in sauce until evenly coated. Place chicken in a separate baking dish.
When calabaza has baked for 15 minutes, lower the oven temperature to 450 degrees F and place the chicken alongside it.
Bake for about 15 minutes until chicken is no longer pink in the centers and juices run clear and calabaza is soft. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone of a leg quarter should read 165 degrees F. Remove and plate.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 120.26kcal
Fat: 8.77g
Saturated Fat: 2.04g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.21g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.79g
Carbohydrates: 4.56g
Fiber: 1.38g
Sugar: 2.48g
Protein: 6.77g
Cholesterol: 35.15mg
Sodium: 282.76mg
Calcium: 14.27mg
Potassium: 175.67mg
Iron: 1.09mg
Vitamin A: 95.21µg
Vitamin C: 8.37mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe

When roasting chicken legs, it's essential to pat them dry before applying the sauce. This helps the sauce adhere better to the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Additionally, when baking the calabaza, ensure to cut the wedges evenly. This promotes even cooking and prevents some pieces from becoming overcooked while others are still undercooked.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Roasted Chicken and Calabaza Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process. One-pan wonders: Opt for recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pan for easy cleanup. Batch cooking: Make larger quantities and freeze leftovers for quick and convenient meals later on. Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to save time and minimize stress. Efficient tools: Use time-saving kitchen gadgets and tools to expedite the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe

calabaza - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to calabaza and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon can be used as a substitute for lime to provide a similar citrusy flavor to the dish.
hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha can be used as a substitute for hot sauce to add heat and flavor to the dish.
sweet paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a similar depth of flavor and smokiness to the dish as sweet paprika.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and depth of flavor as honey in this recipe.
chicken leg quarters - Substitute with turkey leg quarters: Turkey leg quarters can be used as a substitute for chicken leg quarters, providing a similar texture and flavor when roasted.

Presenting Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

Elevate the calabaza wedges: Arrange the calabaza wedges in a circular pattern on the plate, slightly overlapping each other for an elegant presentation.
Artfully place the roasted chicken legs: Position the roasted chicken legs on top of the calabaza wedges, ensuring they are placed at a slight angle for a visually appealing look.
Drizzle with hot sauce reduction: Create a decorative drizzle of the hot sauce reduction around the perimeter of the plate, adding a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to add a touch of brightness and freshness to the overall presentation.
Add a lime wedge: Place a small lime wedge on the side of the plate for a vibrant and citrusy accent to complement the flavors of the dish.
Sprinkle with paprika: Lightly dust the plate with a sprinkle of sweet paprika for a final touch of color and a hint of smoky flavor.
Use a minimalist plating approach: Embrace a minimalist plating style, allowing the vibrant colors and textures of the dish to take center stage for a sophisticated presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for roasting, baking, and heating food.
Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking and roasting food.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together.
Basting brush: A brush used for applying sauces and marinades to food.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot used for picking up and manipulating food.
Measuring spoons: Utensils used to measure small amounts of ingredients accurately.
Instant-read thermometer: A thermometer used to quickly check the internal temperature of food.

Storing and Freezing Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

Allow the roasted chicken legs and calabaza to cool completely before storing them in the refrigerator or freezer. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can lead to soggy or spoiled food.
For short-term storage in the refrigerator, place the cooled chicken legs and calabaza in separate airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing them. The roasted chicken legs will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, while the calabaza will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
If you want to freeze the roasted chicken legs and calabaza for longer storage, follow these steps:
- Wrap each chicken leg individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to cover them tightly. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain their quality.
- Place the wrapped chicken legs in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- For the calabaza, place the cooled wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, about 2-3 hours.
- Once frozen, transfer the calabaza wedges to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents to help you keep track of your frozen food.
When stored properly in the freezer, the roasted chicken legs and calabaza will maintain their best quality for up to 4 months. However, they will remain safe to eat beyond this time, as long as they have been kept consistently frozen at 0°F (-18°C).
To reheat the frozen roasted chicken legs and calabaza, first thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, place them on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until they are heated through and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). This should take about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken and calabaza in the microwave, but be aware that this method may result in a slightly softer texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover roasted chicken legs and calabaza in an oven-safe dish, making sure to arrange them in a single layer. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the chicken and calabaza from drying out. Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken and calabaza are heated through.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place the chicken legs and calabaza in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the moisture in and prevent the chicken and calabaza from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken and calabaza are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover roasted chicken legs and calabaza, try reheating them in a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken legs and calabaza to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through. You can also add some minced garlic, chopped onions, or your favorite herbs and spices to the skillet for extra flavor.
For a crispy texture, reheat your leftover roasted chicken legs and calabaza under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the chicken legs and calabaza on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the skin on the chicken legs is crispy and the calabaza is lightly browned. Keep a close eye on the food to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover roasted chicken legs and calabaza. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken legs and calabaza in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the skin on the chicken legs is crispy. This method is quick, easy, and results in a texture similar to freshly roasted chicken and calabaza.

Interesting Fact About Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

The calabaza, also known as West Indian pumpkin, is a type of squash commonly used in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine. It is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making it a nutritious addition to the roasted chicken legs dish.

Is Making Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza at Home Cost-Effective?

This roasted chicken legs with calabaza recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, calabaza and chicken leg quarters, are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of olive oil, lime, and paprika enhances the flavors without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Roasted Chicken and Calabaza Dish Healthy?

This recipe for roasted chicken legs with calabaza has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, calabaza (also known as Caribbean pumpkin) is a nutrient-dense vegetable, rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Chicken legs are a good source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats.

However, there are some concerns:

The recipe calls for a significant amount of hot sauce and honey, which can add excess sodium and sugar to the dish.
The high cooking temperature (475°F and 450°F) may lead to the formation of harmful compounds, such as advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of hot sauce and honey to minimize added sodium and sugar. Instead, opt for more herbs and spices to add flavor.
Lower the cooking temperature to around 400°F to reduce the formation of harmful compounds. Cook the chicken and calabaza for a longer time to ensure doneness.
Include a side of leafy greens or other non-starchy vegetables to increase the overall nutrient content of the meal.
Remove the skin from the chicken legs to reduce the saturated fat content.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and more nutritious version of this roasted chicken and calabaza dish.

Editor's Thoughts on This Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Dish

This recipe for roasted chicken legs with calabaza is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender and juicy chicken, coated in a zesty and slightly sweet sauce, pairs perfectly with the soft and slightly caramelized calabaza. The use of hot sauce, paprika, and honey adds a depth of flavor that elevates the dish. The high-temperature roasting method ensures a crispy exterior on the chicken while keeping the meat succulent. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and satisfying meal that is sure to impress your guests.

Enhance Your Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of parmesan cheese, perfect for soaking up the spicy flavors of the roasted chicken legs with calabaza.

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus spears drizzled with a balsamic glaze, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the heat of the hot sauce on the chicken legs.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a mix of juicy berries and tropical fruits, providing a cool and refreshing contrast to the savory and spicy roasted chicken legs with calabaza.

Similar Recipes to Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs. Skewer the vegetables and grill until tender and slightly charred.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Sear the short ribs, then braise them in a mixture of red wine, beef broth, onions, carrots, and herbs until they are fall-off-the-bone tender.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mix chia seeds with coconut milk, mango puree, and a touch of honey. Let it sit in the fridge to thicken into a delicious and healthy pudding.

Butternut Squash Soup: Roast butternut squash, onions, and garlic until caramelized, then blend with vegetable broth and warm spices for a comforting and creamy soup.

Apple Crisp: Toss sliced apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Top with a buttery oat crumble and bake until golden and bubbly.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing option for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta featuring ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tangy balsamic glaze. The vibrant colors and bold flavors of this dish will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of baked apples, cinnamon, and a crunchy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Why trust this Roasted Chicken Legs with Calabaza Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful and succulent dish, as the chicken leg quarters are coated in a zesty marinade of lime juice, hot sauce, and sweet paprika. The calabaza is roasted to perfection with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and ground black pepper, adding a delightful sweetness to the dish. The combination of these fresh and vibrant ingredients ensures a delicious and wholesome meal that will surely impress your taste buds. Trust in the quality and balance of flavors in this recipe for a delightful dining experience.

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FAQ:

What is calabaza and where can I find it?

Calabaza is a type of squash commonly used in Caribbean and Latin American cuisine. It has a sweet flavor and a firm texture. You can find it in most grocery stores, particularly those with a diverse selection of produce.

Can I use a different type of squash if I can't find calabaza?

Yes, you can substitute calabaza with other types of squash such as butternut squash, acorn squash, or kabocha squash. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still work well in this recipe.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the dish?

Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce used in the recipe. Feel free to customize it to your preference.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken leg quarters?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of leg quarters. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may cook faster than leg quarters.

Can I prepare the calabaza and chicken in advance?

While it's best to enjoy the dish fresh, you can prepare the calabaza and marinate the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to roast them.