Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! We’ve got a delicious collection of 20 mouth-watering chicken leg recipes inspired by the bold and vibrant flavors of Asia. From the sweet and sticky glazes of Japan to the spicy curries of Thailand, each dish is packed with flavor and sure to become a new favorite.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across Asia, exploring the diverse flavors and cooking techniques that make these dishes so unique and delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory and umami-rich or sweet and sticky, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your apron, get ready to cook, and let’s dive into the world of Asian-inspired chicken legs!
Soy Garlic Glazed Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory soy garlic glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, honey, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken legs in a large bowl and brush the soy glaze all over them.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thai Red Curry Chicken Drumsticks
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thai red curry with crispy chicken drumsticks, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oil, garlic, ginger, curry paste, coconut milk, chicken broth, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Spicy Gochujang Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang paste with crispy chicken legs, resulting in a sweet and spicy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken legs
– 2 tbsp gochujang paste
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the chicken legs to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Bake the chicken legs for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Roasted Chicken Legs
Elevate your chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tbsp Chinese five-spice powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and vegetable oil.
4. Place chicken legs in a large bowl. Brush the honey-soy mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Sprinkle the five-spice mixture evenly over the chicken legs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. If using garlic, sprinkle it over the chicken.
7. Roast the chicken legs in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Japanese Teriyaki Chicken Drumsticks
Experience the bold flavors of Japan with this simple recipe that yields tender and juicy chicken drumsticks smothered in a sweet teriyaki sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add chicken drumsticks to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove drumsticks from the marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Brush with additional teriyaki sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Grilled Chicken Legs
This recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavors of lemongrass with the rich, charred taste of grilled chicken legs. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and ginger.
3. Place chicken legs in a large bowl and pour marinade over them. Toss to coat.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Grill chicken legs for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with cilantro, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Indonesian Satay Chicken Leg Skewers
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Indonesian street food recipe! Marinated chicken leg skewers grilled to perfection, served with spicy peanut sauce and fresh cucumber slices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken legs
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade) and fresh cucumber slices for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, kecap manis, garlic, ginger, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Add chicken legs to the marinade, turning to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Brush grill with vegetable oil. Grill chicken for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with peanut sauce and fresh cucumber slices.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Malaysian Coconut Curry Chicken Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Malaysia with this aromatic curry dish featuring tender chicken legs smothered in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and paprika.
3. Add the chicken legs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken legs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and pour the coconut milk mixture (from the can) over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Filipino Adobo Braised Chicken Legs
Savor the rich flavors of the Philippines with this classic Adobo dish, featuring tender chicken legs slow-cooked in a tangy and savory sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or cane sugar)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken legs, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, fish sauce (if using), and black pepper.
2. Add enough water to cover the chicken, then bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until chicken is tender.
4. Remove bay leaf, then season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh green onions and steamed rice if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Indian Tandoori Style Chicken Legs
A classic Indian dish that’s both flavorful and aromatic, Tandoori Style Chicken Legs are a staple of many Indian restaurants. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of India to your kitchen with ease.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken legs
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 2 teaspoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 teaspoon ginger paste
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic paste
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, ghee or oil, tandoori masala powder, ginger paste, and garlic paste.
2. Add the chicken legs to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place the chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Singaporean Chili Crab Inspired Chicken Legs
This recipe takes the bold flavors of Singaporean chili crab and gives them a delicious twist on chicken legs, resulting in a spicy and savory dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup chili crab sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chili crab sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add the chicken legs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cambodian Amok Spiced Chicken Legs
A flavorful and aromatic dish from Cambodia, Amok Spiced Chicken Legs is a popular street food that combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of spices. This recipe brings the bold flavors of Southeast Asia to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken legs to the spice mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish, pour coconut milk over the top, and garnish with cilantro leaves.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Laotian Sticky Rice Stuffed Chicken Legs
A twist on traditional chicken legs, this recipe combines the flavors of Laos with a sweet and savory sticky rice filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup cooked sticky rice (see note)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated coconut
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked sticky rice, cilantro, coconut, garlic, fish sauce, and lime juice.
3. Stuff each chicken leg with the sticky rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the legs.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sticky rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Burmese Tea Leaf Marinated Chicken Legs
A flavorful fusion of Burmese tea leaf and chicken legs, this recipe combines the aromatic properties of black tea with the tender juiciness of marinated chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1 cup strong brewed black tea (cooled)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cooled black tea, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Add the chicken legs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little sesame oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Taiwanese Three-Cup Chicken Legs
A classic Taiwanese dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth with the tender texture of chicken legs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon white pepper
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chicken broth, sesame oil, garlic, sugar, and white pepper.
3. Add the chicken legs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hong Kong Style Honey Garlic Chicken Legs
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Hong Kong-style cooking with this easy recipe. Crispy chicken legs smothered in a sticky honey garlic sauce, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place chicken legs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey garlic mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Shanghai Braised Soy Sauce Chicken Legs
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Shanghainese cuisine, with tender chicken legs smothered in a rich and savory soy sauce-based braising liquid. With its deep flavor profile and velvety texture, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken legs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Chinese cooking wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, cooking wine, cornstarch, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add chicken legs and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
5. Add garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Pour in braising liquid (reserving marinade) and bring to a simmer. Return chicken legs to the pot, cover with a lid, and braise for 30 minutes or until meat is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Thai Basil Stir-Fried Chicken Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this quick and easy recipe that combines succulent chicken legs with aromatic Thai basil, chilies, and savory sauces. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1-2 Thai chilies, sliced (depending on desired heat level)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and chilies; cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add chicken legs; cook until browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Stir in Thai basil, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and brown sugar. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes from start to finish.
Korean Fried Chicken Legs with Sweet Soy Glaze
Savor the sweet and spicy flavors of Korean-style fried chicken legs smothered in a sticky sweet soy glaze. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken legs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Soy Glaze:
+ 1/2 cup soy sauce
+ 1/4 cup honey
+ 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
+ 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, panko breadcrumbs, ginger, garlic, and chili flakes.
2. Dip each chicken leg into the beaten egg, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Fry chicken legs in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sweet soy glaze ingredients.
5. Toss fried chicken legs with sweet soy glaze and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Miso Glazed Chicken Drumsticks
This sweet and savory recipe combines the richness of miso paste with the crispy texture of chicken drumsticks, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
3. Add water to the mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Place chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and brush with the glaze.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking with these 20 mouth-watering chicken leg recipes from across Asia! From soy garlic glazed chicken legs inspired by Chinese cuisine to Korean spicy gochujang chicken legs and Japanese teriyaki drumsticks, each recipe is a flavorful journey through the continent. Discover how Thai red curry, Vietnamese lemongrass, and Indian tandoori spices can elevate your cooking game. Whether you’re in the mood for grilled, roasted, or braised chicken, this collection of recipes has something for everyone. Get cooking and take your taste buds on an Asian adventure!
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