Keto Chicken Legs – Low Carb Baked

Keto Chicken Legs – This low carb chicken legs are perfect for satisfying that crispy, savory craving while keeping your carbs in check.

Why Keto Chicken Legs?

Chicken legs (drumsticks) are ideal for keto because they’re higher in fat compared to chicken breasts, which means they fit into the high-fat, low-carb macros of a keto diet perfectly. Plus, they’re incredibly flavorful, thanks to their dark meat and juicy texture.

Here’s what makes them so great for keto:

• Low in carbs: Chicken drumsticks have virtually zero carbs.
• High in fat: Dark meat contains more fat, which is essential for keto.
• Affordable: Chicken legs are one of the cheapest cuts of meat, making them budget-friendly.
• Flavor-packed: Chicken legs retain moisture better than chicken breasts, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

Let’s dive into the recipe for crispy, flavorful low carb chicken legs!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Low Carb Chicken Legs

• Pat the chicken dry: This is key for getting that golden, crispy skin.
• Use baking powder: Adding a small amount of baking powder to the seasoning helps the skin crisp up beautifully without adding carbs.
• Cook on a wire rack: This ensures even cooking and keeps the skin from getting soggy by allowing the fat to drip away.
• Flip halfway: For the most evenly cooked chicken legs, flip them halfway through the baking process.

Variations

While the basic keto chicken legs recipe is already delicious, here are some ways to change it up and suit your taste:

Herb Butter Chicken Legs: After baking, toss the chicken legs in melted butter mixed with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro.

Spicy Keto Chicken Legs: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tbsp of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Legs: Substitute paprika with lemon zest and add 2 cloves of minced garlic for a tangy twist.

Keto BBQ Chicken Legs: Brush the chicken legs with a sugar-free BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.

How to Serve Keto Chicken Legs

The beauty of keto chicken legs is that they pair well with a variety of low-carb sides. Here are a few serving ideas:

• Cauliflower Rice: A keto staple, cauliflower rice is the perfect base to soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken.
• Zucchini Noodles: Light and fresh, these noodles complement the richness of the chicken legs.
• Roasted Vegetables: Keto-friendly veggies like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus roasted with olive oil make a perfect side.
• Keto Mashed Cauliflower: A great alternative to mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower is creamy, buttery, and low-carb.

How to Store and Reheat Keto Chicken Legs

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep your chicken legs fresh and delicious:

• In the fridge: Store leftover chicken legs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• In the freezer: Chicken legs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re tightly wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Tips:

• In the oven: Reheat chicken legs in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain the crispy skin.
• In the air fryer: For an extra crispy result, use an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.
• In the microwave: You can reheat in the microwave, but the skin will lose its crispiness. If you don’t mind that, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes.

Recipe FAQs

Are chicken legs keto?

Yes! Chicken legs are naturally low in carbohydrates and high in fat, making them an excellent choice for the keto diet. Just be mindful of any additional sauces or coatings that may add hidden carbs.

How many carbs are in chicken legs?

A plain chicken leg (drumstick) without any breading or sauce contains 0 grams of carbohydrates, making it a perfect keto protein source.

Can I make keto chicken legs in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryers are fantastic for getting extra crispy skin. Cook the chicken legs at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (165°F).

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes, chicken thighs are another great option for keto! They are higher in fat than drumsticks and cook similarly. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size of the thighs.

What keto sauces can I serve with chicken legs?

Try sugar-free BBQ sauce, keto ranch dressing, or a garlic herb butter sauce. Just make sure the sauce you choose is low-carb and doesn’t contain any added sugars.

Final Thoughts on Keto Chicken Legs

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful, and budget-friendly keto meal, you can’t go wrong with keto chicken legs. They’re incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste, whether you prefer them spicy, garlicky, or buttery. Plus, the crispy skin will make you forget you’re even on a diet! Serve them with your favorite low-carb sides, and you’ve got a perfect keto-friendly dinner.

Check out my other delicious keto recipes:

• Keto Chicken Thighs Crock Pot
• Keto Chicken Wings Oven Baked
• Keto Chicken Wings