Southern baked chicken made with chicken drumsticks and thighs is a simple recipe that’s easy enough for weeknights and delicious enough for Sunday dinners. Enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin, ideal for pairing with your favorite soul food sides. This recipe is also perfect for meal prep!
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If you’re looking for a soul food recipe that’s as perfect for a busy weeknight as it is for a Sunday dinner, look no further than this Southern baked chicken. It’s one of those classic dishes that everyone should have in their cooking repertoire. Not only is this baked chicken incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor and a touch of that good ol’ Southern soul.
In our house, Marrekus is all about the dark meat—thighs and drumsticks are his absolute favorites. Personally, I like to mix it up with both dark and white meat chicken because I prefer breasts. One thing we both can agree on though, is that Southern baked chicken pairs nicely with all the best soul food sides. From mac and cheese to cornbread to candied yams. It’s perfect for the whole family.
This Southern baked chicken is also a nice alternative to our fried chicken, smothered chicken, and grilled barbecue chicken leg quarter recipes. Leftover chicken can be used in sandwiches, salads, or enjoyed on its own.
For more dinner recipes, be sure to check out our Soul Food Sunday Dinner Ideas roundup or our easy, healthy soul food recipes!
What we love about this recipe
- EASY WEEKNIGHT DINNER – Quick and easy to prepare using simple ingredients makes this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights.
- SUNDAY SUPPER – Perfect for a Sunday family dinner after church or a game.
- HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVE – Enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken without the extra calories from frying.
Ingredients
- Cuts of Chicken: This recipe calls for skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs and chicken legs. You can also use a whole chicken cut into 8 pieces. When cooked with the skin on and bone in, chicken thighs and drumsticks are flavorful and result in juicy meat. The skin helps keep the meat moist and adds a crispy texture when baked.
- Soul Food Seasoning: Our simple homemade spice rub of kosher salt, black pepper, seasoned salt, granulated garlic, and granulated onion adds a soulful flavor. This seasoning mix is versatile, so don’t hesitate to freestyle with stuff you have in your spice cabinet. Alternatively, use your favorite poultry seasoning.
- Cajun Seasoning: Gives chicken additional flavor. You can find Cajun seasoning at your local grocery store; popular brands to look for include Tony Chachere’s, Slap Ya Mama, or Zatarain’s. It typically includes smoked paprika, garlic powder and onion powder, black pepper and cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme.
How to Make Easy Southern Baked Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Mix your Soul Food seasoning and Cajun seasoning in a small bowl.
- Pat pieces of chicken dry and coat them evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Arrange chicken pieces, skin side up, in a single layer on a baking sheet, dish, or skillet.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
- Let baked chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Pat Dry: Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps the skin get extra crispy in the oven.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure chicken is perfectly cooked to 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Arrange chicken in a single layer with a bit of space between them so they cook evenly and the skin crisps up nicely.
- Let It Rest: After baking, let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices before serving.
What to Serve
Southern baked chicken pairs well with classic comfort food sides! Here are some great options:
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover baked chicken, let it cool to room temperature. Then, place in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within 3–4 days.
Commonly Asked Questions
This Southern baked chicken recipe is best cooked uncovered in the oven for a crispy, golden-brown finish.
To keep Southern baked chicken from drying out, use bone-in, skin-on pieces because they hold more moisture. Bake at 375°F and use a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F but doesn’t overcook. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after baking so the juices stay inside, keeping it tender and flavorful.
This Southern Baked Chicken is a must-try for any home cook. It’s simple enough to make during the week but fancy enough for a Sunday supper.
Best Southern Baked Chicken Recipe (Thighs and Legs)
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet, Baking Sheet or Baking Dish
- Tongs or a Fork
- Aluminum Foil (Optional)
Ingredients
- 8 pieces chicken thighs and chicken drumsticks or 1 whole chicken cut up
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Soul Food seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prep Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, combine Soul Food seasoning and Cajun seasoning.
- Season Chicken: Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during baking. Evenly coat with the seasoning mix.
- Bake: Place seasoned chicken pieces in an oven-safe skillet, baking dish, or on a baking sheet, skin side up. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer and not crowded.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices.
- Serve with your favorite soul food sides and enjoy.
