Name: Roasted Orange Glazed Chicken Legs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 10-12 chicken legs; 2 tbsp of vegetable oil; 1 tbsp of garlic (minced); 1 tsp garlic salt; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp pepper; 2 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tsp of Dijon mustard; Zest of 1 orange and juice of 2 oranges

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If you’re craving something savory with just the right touch of sweetness, these Roasted Orange Glazed Chicken Legs have the perfect flavor to satisfy your craving.

The chicken roasts until golden and crisp, while a glossy orange glaze caramelizes over the top — tangy, slightly sticky, and filled with flavor in every bite, making these tasty chicken legs finger-licking good!

Before heading to the recipe, make sure to check out the tips section — a few easy tricks help you nail that perfect caramelized finish every time.

Serves: 5
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. It’s one of those dishes that looks like you put in way more effort than you did.

A handful of everyday ingredients create a mouthwatering glaze that bakes right into the chicken as it cooks. You’ll get crisp skin, juicy meat, and a sauce that’s good enough to drizzle on everything. It’s a simple, reliable recipe.

The best part? The oven does most of the work, filling your kitchen with that cozy, roasted smell while you prep the sides or just relax.

Baked chicken drumsticks glazed with sauce and garnished with chopped green onions on a tray, set on a red and white checkered cloth.

How To Make Roasted Orange Glazed Chicken Legs

Raw chicken drumsticks on a plate, surrounded by bowls of soy sauce, olive oil, mustard, garlic, spices, vinegar, and two whole oranges on a white surface.

Ingredients

10-12 chicken legs
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
1 tbsp of garlic (minced)
1 tsp garlic salt
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp pepper
2 tbsp honey
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp of Dijon mustard
Zest of 1 orange and juice of 2 oranges

Three pieces of glazed chicken garnished with green onions on a tray, with halved oranges and a glass of iced tea in the background.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven to 400° and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.

In a large bowl add the chicken legs, oil, garlic and seasonings.

Raw chicken drumsticks in a metal bowl, topped with various spices including paprika and garlic powder, on a light marble surface.

Massage the seasonings into the chicken legs and coat all over.

Make sure the skin on the chicken legs are pulled up and not rolled down.

2. Lay the chicken legs all over the sheet pan evenly.

In a small bowl add the honey, soy sauce, Dijon, orange zest and orange juice, stir to combine.

A white bowl filled with a yellow-orange liquid mixture, likely a sauce or dressing, on a white marble surface.

Brush on top of the chicken legs all over.

Ten raw, seasoned chicken drumsticks arranged on a foil-lined baking sheet, ready to be cooked.

Save the rest of the juice.

3. Place the chicken legs in the preheated oven and cook for 40-45 minutes.

While that’s in the oven take a small saucepan and add the leftover juice.

Cook on a medium to low heat and stir until it becomes thick.

Mine took about 5-8 minutes to become thick.

4. Once the chicken is done, take out the oven and brush the glaze all over the chicken once more.

Baked chicken drumsticks with a glazed, slightly charred coating arranged on a foil-lined baking sheet.

Baked chicken drumsticks coated in a glossy, orange-brown sauce on a foil-lined baking sheet.

Top with scallions or parsley (optional) and serve and enjoy!

Baked chicken drumsticks garnished with green onions on parchment in a tray, set on a red checkered napkin, with orange slices on a wooden board.

Tips, Tricks and Storage

Pat the Chicken Dry: Make sure to dry the chicken legs with paper towels before seasoning — it helps them brown beautifully and ensures crispy skin.
Stir the Glaze: While cooking the glaze in the pan, make sure to stir it frequently so it doesn’t burn.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you like a bolder citrus flavor, add a squeeze of lemon or reduce the sugar slightly for more tang.
Glaze While Roasting: Brush the glaze over the chicken a few times during cooking for an even coat and deeper caramelization.
Let It Rest: Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving — it helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to re-crisp the skin, or microwave for a quick meal.

Three glazed chicken drumsticks garnished with green onions on a tray, with orange slices, a drink with ice, and a red gingham napkin on a wooden board.

Variations

You can easily change up the flavor by using honey instead of sugar for the glaze, or adding a touch of soy sauce and garlic for a more savory edge.

If you prefer a bit of heat, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce. Want something extra special?

Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary over the top before serving for a colorful finish.

Substitutions

Chicken Legs → Thighs or Breasts

You can swap in any cut of chicken, but adjust the cook time slightly. Breasts will cook faster and still taste good, but you’ll lose a bit of the crunch since there’s no skin.

Orange Juice → Pineapple or Mango Juice

Both bring a nice tropical twist while keeping that sweet, tangy balance.

Brown Sugar → Maple Syrup or Honey

These natural sweeteners melt beautifully into the glaze, deepening the caramel flavor.

Soy Sauce → Coconut Aminos

For a lower-sodium or gluten-free option, coconut aminos work just as well and add the same savory depth.

Baked chicken legs glazed with sauce and garnished with sliced green onions, served on a metal tray with oranges in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time since boneless pieces cook faster. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

Q: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Warm it slightly before brushing it on the chicken.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink near the bone.

Q: What sides go well with it?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes pair perfectly. Really, you can eat it with anything that can soak up that sweet and tangy sauce.

If you loved these Roasted Orange Glazed Chicken Legs, try the Japanese BBQ Chicken Fried Rice or Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Roast next. Each one brings easy prep, bold flavor, and that same comforting homemade feel to a classic chicken meal.

Start Cooking

Prep Time:5

Cook Time:45

Total Time:50