If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist for your next pizza night, Pepperoni Chicken Legs are about to become your new go-to dinner. Imagine juicy, tender chicken drumsticks, baked to crispy perfection, then smothered in bubbling mozzarella and zesty pizza sauce, topped off with classic pepperoni slices. This is everything you love about pepperoni pizza, but in hearty, protein-packed form! Each bite is savory, cheesy, and just a little bit nostalgic, making these chicken legs a guaranteed hit with family and friends.

Pepperoni Chicken Legs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling off these irresistible Pepperoni Chicken Legs couldn’t be easier, and the flavor depends on the magic each ingredient brings. From the simple drumsticks to the punchy seasoning and gooey cheese, every element is chosen to create that mouthwatering, pizza-inspired experience.

Chicken drumsticks: Meaty and juicy, drumsticks stand up beautifully to the bold pizza toppings.
Olive oil: Helps lock in moisture and crisps up the chicken skin as it roasts.
Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and a bit of warmth to the seasoning mix.
Onion powder: Balances the garlic and brings a gentle sweetness.
Paprika: Lends a touch of smokiness and gorgeous color.
Italian seasoning: Brings the essence of classic pizza herbs like oregano and basil.
Salt: Enhances all the bold flavors, making them pop.
Black pepper: Adds a little bite, rounding out the spices.
Pizza sauce: The tangy, herby tomato base that instantly transports you to pizza night.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into delicious, stringy perfection all over the chicken.
Pepperoni slices: That iconic, spicy, crispy topping we all crave.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, salty richness to finish each bite.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.

How to Make Pepperoni Chicken Legs

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Start things off by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake. Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray. This step sets the stage for those irresistible, crispy results you want in your Pepperoni Chicken Legs.

Step 2: Season the Drumsticks

After patting the chicken drumsticks dry with paper towels (this helps the skin crisp up), rub them all over with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this fragrant blend over every drumstick, coating them evenly. The aroma is already so inviting!

Step 3: Bake Until Juicy and Golden

Lay your seasoned drumsticks out on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they have a bit of breathing room. Pop them into the oven and bake for 30 minutes, turning once halfway through. You’ll notice the skin start to turn golden and crispy—exactly what you want for Pepperoni Chicken Legs!

Step 4: Add Pizza Toppings

Now comes the pizza magic! Spoon a generous layer of pizza sauce over each drumstick, then top with a hearty sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Add two slices of pepperoni to each leg, which will curl up and crisp in the oven for that classic look and flavor.

Step 5: Melt and Bubble

Return the baking sheet to your hot oven and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll know your Pepperoni Chicken Legs are ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, the pepperoni is just crispy at the edges, and the chicken is cooked through (165°F or 74°C at the thickest part).

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Right before serving, give the hot drumsticks a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a shower of freshly chopped parsley. These final touches add a burst of savoriness and a fresh pop of color that really makes your plate shine.

How to Serve Pepperoni Chicken Legs

Garnishes

Never underestimate the power of a good garnish! Finish your Pepperoni Chicken Legs with extra Parmesan and a scattering of fresh parsley. The cheese adds richness, while the parsley gives a cool, herby touch that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

For the full “pizza night” feeling, serve these chicken legs with garlic bread to soak up any cheesy drips, or pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter balance. Roasted veggies or creamy mashed potatoes also make fantastic sides, giving everyone at the table something to love.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the Pepperoni Chicken Legs on a rustic wooden board with bowls of extra pizza sauce for dipping. Or set them over a bed of sautéed spinach for a fresh, colorful twist. If you’re making these for a party, try cutting each drumstick in half for snackable bites and arrange with toothpicks!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftover Pepperoni Chicken Legs, just pop them into an airtight container and chill them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to three days, making for a fantastic lunch or snack later in the week.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the cooked chicken legs to cool completely, then wrap individually in foil or parchment paper. Store these bundled legs in a freezer-safe zip bag for up to two months. This is a smart way to keep Pepperoni Chicken Legs on standby for busy nights!

Reheating

For best results, reheat the drumsticks in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the cheese is melty again—usually about 15 minutes. Microwaving is fine in a pinch, but an oven brings back more of that just-baked crispness.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs or breasts will work, just adjust the baking time since they may cook a little quicker than drumsticks. Keep an eye out so the chicken stays juicy.

What’s the best way to get ultra-crispy skin?

Use paper towels to pat the chicken dry before adding oil and seasoning. For even crispier results, broil the Pepperoni Chicken Legs for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese and pepperoni.

How do I make it less spicy for kids?

Swap regular pepperoni for a milder turkey or beef version, or simply use fewer slices. You can also add more mozzarella to tone down the spice!

Can I add more pizza toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to sprinkle on sliced black olives, chopped bell peppers, or even a few diced mushrooms before baking with the cheese. Make these Pepperoni Chicken Legs your own!

Will this recipe work in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry the drumsticks at 375°F, turning halfway, until cooked through, then add the pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni for the last few minutes. It’s a great way to speed things up while still getting crispy chicken.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dinner that’s playful, comforting, and totally crowd-pleasing, give Pepperoni Chicken Legs a try! This dish is proof that a few humble ingredients can transform into something showstopping. Get ready for smiles around your table—these chicken legs just might steal the spotlight from pizza itself.

Pepperoni Chicken Legs Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy the flavors of pizza in a unique way with these Pepperoni Chicken Legs. Juicy chicken drumsticks are seasoned, baked, and then topped with pizza sauce, melted cheese, and savory pepperoni slices for a delicious twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Drumsticks:

8 chicken drumsticks

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings:

1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
16 slices pepperoni
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the drumsticks dry, rub with olive oil, and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bake for 30 minutes, turning halfway through.
Add toppings: Spoon pizza sauce over each drumstick, sprinkle with mozzarella, place pepperoni slices, and bake for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
Final touches: Sprinkle with Parmesan and parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, broil the chicken legs for 2-3 minutes after adding cheese and pepperoni.
Serve with garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American