Name: Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 7 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 6 Chicken Legs; For Marinade:; 6 garlic cloves; 1 large shallot; 1 tbsp fresh ginger; 1 tbsp agave; ¼ cup soy sauce; ½ tsp chinese five-spice powder; freshly ground black pepper

Transform your dinner with a flavorful twist by making five spice roasted chicken legs. This dish brings together the rich, aromatic taste of Chinese five-spice powder with the savory goodness of soy sauce and fresh ingredients.

Photos of Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe

Some of the ingredients for this recipe might not be common in every household. For instance, Chinese five-spice powder is a unique blend you'll need to find in the spice aisle of your supermarket. Fresh ginger and shallots are also essential components that you might need to pick up during your grocery trip.

Ingredients For Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs

Chicken legs: The main protein of the dish, providing a tender and flavorful base.

Garlic cloves: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the marinade.

Shallot: Offers a mild onion flavor that complements the garlic and ginger.

Fresh ginger: Provides a zesty and slightly spicy note, balancing the flavors.

Agave: A natural sweetener that enhances the overall taste profile.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami richness to the marinade.

Chinese five-spice powder: The star ingredient, delivering a complex blend of flavors including sweet, sour, bitter, savory, and spicy.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the other spices.

One reader, Bing Mathias says:

The five spice roasted chicken legs recipe is fantastic! The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, and the meat turns out juicy and tender. Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests. Highly recommend!

Bing Mathias

Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Roasted Chicken Legs

How to blend marinade ingredients: Combine garlic cloves, shallot, fresh ginger, agave, soy sauce, Chinese five-spice powder, and freshly ground black pepper in a blender and blend until smooth. How to marinate chicken: Place the chicken legs in a large, resealable zip-top bag or container, pour in the marinade, and toss the chicken to cover evenly. Refrigerate for about 6 to 8 hours or as long as overnight. How to preheat oven: Set the oven to 400 degrees F and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the chicken inside. How to create a foil tent: Place the chicken on a rack in a foil-lined roasting pan and loosely cover the chicken with foil to create a tent. How to roast chicken: Roast the chicken in the center of the oven for about 30 minutes with the foil tent, then remove the foil and continue to cook for about 45 minutes longer, basting occasionally. How to check internal temperature: Insert a thermometer between the leg and the thigh to ensure the internal temperature is 165 to 170 degrees F before serving.

How To Make Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs

Sink your teeth into these roasted chicken legs, marinated in a five-spice, sweet and garlicky mix, then baked to juicy perfection, for a hearty meal!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour 15 minutes

Marinate Time: 6 hours

Total: 7 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Marinade:

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the marinade ingredients and blend until smooth.

1. Place the chicken in a large, resealable zip-top bag or container and pour in the marinade. Toss the chicken inside the bag to cover evenly with the marinade.

1. Refrigerate for about 6 to 8 hours or as long as overnight.

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

1. Place the chicken on a rack in a foil-lined roasting pan. Create a loose tent over the chicken with foil.

1. Roast the chicken in the center of the oven for about 30 minutes.

1. Remove the foil and continue to cook for about 45 minutes longer, basting occasionally until the internal temperature is 165 to 170 degrees F; inserting the thermometer between the leg and the thigh.

1. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

- Calories: 769.82kcal

- Fat: 55.01g

- Saturated Fat: 15.05g

- Trans Fat: 0.21g

- Monounsaturated Fat: 22.79g

- Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.59g

- Carbohydrates: 7.99g

- Fiber: 1.09g

- Sugar: 3.61g

- Protein: 57.85g

- Cholesterol: 319.92mg

- Sodium: 875.18mg

- Calcium: 51.03mg

- Potassium: 821.88mg

- Iron: 2.87mg

- Vitamin A: 96.67µg

- Vitamin C: 2.80mg

Expert Advice for Achieving Crispy Skin on Roasted Chicken Legs

When marinating the chicken, make sure to massage the marinade into the meat thoroughly. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy roasted chicken.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs

Blend the marinade ahead: Prepare the marinade a day before and store it in the fridge to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-minced ingredients: Opt for pre-minced garlic and ginger to cut down on prep time.

Marinate in the morning: Start marinating the chicken in the morning so it's ready to cook by dinner time.

Line the pan: Use foil to line your roasting pan for easy cleanup.

Check temperature early: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature early to avoid overcooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe

Chicken legs - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs have a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable substitute for chicken legs.
Garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic. Garlic powder provides a similar flavor, though it is less pungent.
Shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onions have a similar taste and texture to shallots, though they are slightly more pungent.
Fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger for each tablespoon of fresh ginger. Ground ginger provides a similar flavor but is more concentrated.
Agave - Substitute with honey: Honey has a similar sweetness and consistency to agave, making it an excellent substitute.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce with a similar flavor profile.
Chinese five-spice powder - Substitute with garam masala: Garam masala has a different but equally complex spice profile that can add depth to the dish.
Freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat and flavor but is slightly milder and less pungent.

Plating Ideas for Roasted Five Spice Chicken Legs

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken legs individually on large, elegant plates to emphasize the artistry of the dish.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Create height: Elevate the chicken legs by placing them on a bed of lightly sautéed vegetables such as julienned carrots and zucchini.
Add a sauce drizzle: Use a small spoon to artistically drizzle a reduction of the marinade around the plate for added flavor and visual appeal.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element like toasted sesame seeds or crispy shallots to contrast with the tender chicken.
Balance the colors: Ensure a balanced color palette by adding a small side of brightly colored pickled vegetables to the plate.
Use high-quality plating tools: Utilize tweezers and fine brushes to place garnishes and sauces with precision, ensuring a clean and sophisticated presentation.
Finish with a touch of luxury: Add a small edible gold leaf or a few drops of truffle oil to elevate the dish to a Michelin-star level.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs

Blender: To combine the marinade ingredients and blend them until smooth.
Resealable zip-top bag: To marinate the chicken legs evenly by tossing them inside the bag with the marinade.
Refrigerator: To store the marinated chicken for 6 to 8 hours or overnight.
Oven: To roast the chicken at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Rack: To place the chicken on, ensuring even roasting and allowing fat to drip away.
Foil-lined roasting pan: To catch drippings and make cleanup easier.
Aluminum foil: To create a loose tent over the chicken during the initial roasting phase.
Basting brush: To baste the chicken occasionally during roasting for added moisture and flavor.
Meat thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches 165 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cutting board: To prepare the garlic, shallot, and ginger for the marinade.
Knife: To chop the garlic, shallot, and ginger before blending them into the marinade.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs

Let the roasted chicken legs cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken legs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
If you want to freeze the chicken legs for later use, follow these steps:
1. Wrap each chicken leg individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
2. Place the wrapped chicken legs in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
4. Store the chicken legs in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat the frozen chicken legs, you can either:
- Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or
- Place the frozen chicken legs directly in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
When reheating, make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to consume.

The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Roasted Chicken Legs

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Loosely cover the chicken with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the chicken legs on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you want to retain the crispy skin, reheat the chicken legs in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken legs in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a stovetop method, place the chicken legs in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to prevent the chicken from drying out. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
If you have a sous vide machine, you can reheat the chicken legs using this precise method. Place the chicken legs in a vacuum-sealed bag and submerge them in a water bath set to 165°F (74°C). Reheat for 30-45 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. For a crispy skin, finish the chicken legs under the broiler or in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes.

Interesting Trivia About Five Spice Powder

A random fact about this recipe is that Chinese five-spice powder is a blend of five fundamental flavors in Chinese cuisine: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. This unique combination adds a complex and aromatic flavor to the roasted chicken, making it a popular choice for marinades and rubs.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Recipe Economical?

This five-spice roasted chicken legs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken legs, garlic, shallot, and soy sauce are affordable and easily available. The marinade ingredients are minimal yet flavorful, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $12-$15.

Is This Roasted Chicken Recipe Healthy or Not?

This five spice roasted chicken legs recipe is a healthier option compared to deep-fried chicken. The marinade ingredients, such as garlic, ginger, and shallots, offer various health benefits and add flavor without relying on excessive salt or unhealthy fats. The use of agave as a natural sweetener is a better choice than refined sugar. However, the recipe could be further improved by:

Reducing the amount of soy sauce or using a low-sodium version to decrease the overall sodium content
Increasing the amount of five-spice powder to enhance the flavor without adding extra calories
Adding more vegetables to the roasting pan, such as carrots, onions, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density of the dish
Using skinless chicken legs to reduce the overall fat content, especially saturated fat
Serving the chicken with a side of steamed brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still delivers on flavor. The key is to focus on whole, minimally processed ingredients and to be mindful of portion sizes. With a few simple tweaks, this five spice roasted chicken legs recipe can become a staple in a healthy diet.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Flavorful Chicken Leg Recipe

This five spice roasted chicken legs recipe is a delightful blend of aromatic flavors and tender meat. The marinade, with its combination of garlic, shallot, ginger, agave, soy sauce, and Chinese five-spice powder, infuses the chicken with a rich, savory taste. Marinating the chicken for 6 to 8 hours ensures deep flavor penetration. Roasting at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, first covered and then uncovered, achieves a perfect balance of moist interior and crispy exterior. Basting occasionally enhances the flavor and texture. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, offering a harmonious blend of spices and succulent chicken.

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

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Imagine the creamy, buttery goodness of potatoes mashed to perfection, infused with the aromatic essence of garlic. This side dish will complement the rich flavors of the five-spice roasted chicken legs, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes on your plate.

Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Add a touch of green to your meal with this vibrant and crisp vegetable dish. The bok choy is stir-fried with a hint of soy sauce and garlic, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory and spiced chicken.

Mango Avocado Salad: Mango Avocado Salad: Brighten up your plate with a colorful and refreshing salad. The sweetness of mango and the creaminess of avocado are tossed with a zesty lime dressing, offering a delightful and unexpected pairing with the roasted chicken.

Ginger Carrot Soup: Ginger Carrot Soup: Warm your soul with a bowl of this velvety soup. The natural sweetness of carrots is enhanced by the subtle heat of ginger, making it a perfect starter to complement the flavors of the main course.

Coconut Jasmine Rice: Coconut Jasmine Rice: Elevate your rice game with this fragrant and slightly sweet rice dish. The jasmine rice is cooked in coconut milk, adding a rich and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the spiced chicken legs.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Five Spice Roasted Chicken

Honey Soy Glazed Chicken Thighs: Dive into the sweet and savory world of honey and soy sauce with these succulent chicken thighs. Marinated to perfection and roasted until golden brown, this dish promises a burst of flavor in every bite.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: Experience the zesty freshness of lemon and the aromatic touch of herbs in this delightful roasted chicken recipe. Perfectly balanced and incredibly juicy, it's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings: Indulge in the irresistible combination of garlic and parmesan with these crispy chicken wings. Baked to a golden crisp and bursting with flavor, they're perfect for game day or any casual gathering.

Spicy Sriracha Chicken Drumsticks: Turn up the heat with these fiery sriracha chicken drumsticks. Marinated in a spicy blend and roasted to perfection, they're sure to satisfy your craving for something bold and spicy.

Maple Dijon Roasted Chicken Breasts: Savor the sweet and tangy notes of maple syrup and dijon mustard in this elegant roasted chicken breast recipe. Perfect for a sophisticated dinner or a cozy night in.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, herbs, and a touch of garlic. The filling is creamy and rich, perfectly complementing the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful crunch and a burst of umami. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests craving more.

Shrimp Cocktail: Delight your guests with a classic shrimp cocktail, but with a twist. Start with succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp, chilled to perfection. Serve them with a zesty cocktail sauce that combines ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing kick. For an added layer of flavor, include a hint of Worcestershire sauce and a dash of hot sauce. Arrange the shrimp elegantly around a bowl of the sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This appetizer is not only visually stunning but also a tantalizing start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a rich, molten chocolate center encased in a delicate, cake shell. This dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors, perfect for those who crave a decadent treat. Serve it warm, allowing the chocolate lava to ooze out as you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few fresh berries can add a touch of elegance and color.

Lemon Meringue Pie: This classic dessert features a tangy lemon filling nestled in a buttery crust, topped with a cloud of golden-brown meringue. The contrast between the zesty lemon and the sweet, airy meringue creates a delightful balance of flavors. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. A garnish of lemon zest or a few mint leaves can add a fresh, aromatic touch. This pie is a perfect way to cleanse the palate after a hearty main course.

Why trust this Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic, shallot, and fresh ginger with the unique taste of Chinese five-spice powder. Marinating the chicken legs for several hours ensures they absorb all the delicious flavors, resulting in tender and juicy meat. Roasting at 400 degrees F with a foil tent helps retain moisture while achieving a perfect golden-brown finish. Basting occasionally ensures the chicken remains succulent. Trust this recipe for its balanced blend of spices and meticulous cooking method, guaranteeing a mouthwatering dish every time.

Have you tried this Five Spice Roasted Chicken Legs Recipe? Share your experience and any tips you might have in the Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken legs?

I recommend marinating the chicken legs for about 6 to 8 hours, but if you have the time, letting them sit overnight will really let the flavors soak in.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken legs?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, as thighs might cook a bit faster.

What if I don't have Chinese five-spice powder?

If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can make a quick substitute using equal parts of cinnamon, cloves, fennel seed, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns. Or, just use what you have on hand; it’ll still be delicious.

Do I need to baste the chicken while it's roasting?

Basting helps keep the chicken moist and adds extra flavor. I recommend basting occasionally, especially after you remove the foil, to get that nice, crispy skin.

Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting it?

Yes, you can definitely grill the chicken. Just preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165 to 170 degrees F.