oven baked glazed chicken leg with rice

Prep Time: 15 minutes   |   Cook Time: 45 minutes   |   Total Time: 1 hour   |   Servings: 4

Introduction

Sticky glazed chicken leg is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and beautifully caramelized flavor served alongside fluffy rice and a crisp fresh salad. This recipe roasts chicken legs until golden, then coats them in a glossy glaze that thickens into a rich, sticky finish. The high heat helps crisp the skin while locking in juicy tenderness inside. Paired with simple steamed rice and a refreshing salad, this dish becomes a complete and satisfying meal. For best results, apply the glaze during the final stage of roasting to prevent burning while achieving that irresistible shine.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs (about 3 lbs / 1.3 kg)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt (6 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 g)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (3 g)
• 1/3 cup honey (80 ml)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30 ml)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (185 g)
• 2 cups water (480 ml)
• 2 cups mixed lettuce (100 g)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced (100 g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml, for salad)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml, for salad)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Season the chicken: Pat chicken legs dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika. Place skin-side up on the tray.
3. Roast: Bake for 30 minutes until the skin begins to crisp and turn golden.
4. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice. The glaze should be smooth and slightly thick.
5. Glaze and finish roasting: Brush the chicken generously with the glaze and return to the oven for 10–15 minutes until sticky and caramelized. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Cook the rice: While the chicken finishes, rinse rice until water runs clear. Bring water to a boil, add rice, cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15–18 minutes until fluffy.
7. Prepare the salad: Toss lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber with olive oil and lemon juice just before serving for a fresh, bright contrast.
8. Serve: Plate rice, top with sticky glazed chicken leg, and add fresh salad on the side. Spoon extra glaze over the chicken for extra shine.

FAQs

Q1: How do I keep the glaze from burning?
Apply the glaze during the final 10–15 minutes of cooking and avoid placing the tray too close to the top heating element.

Q2: Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, bone-in thighs work well and may cook slightly faster. Always check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.

Q3: Can I prepare sticky glazed chicken leg ahead of time?
You can roast the chicken in advance and reheat with fresh glaze brushed on top for best texture and flavor.

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