Recipes with Chicken Legs

Do you tend to stay away from recipes with chicken legs? You’re not alone. Over the last decade, more people are turning to chicken breast. This high protein, lean meat is a favourite. But why?

There is a misconception that dark meat is unhealthy. Therefore, many people choose not to eat it. However, dark meat contains essential nutrients. These vitamins and minerals help your cells to function. So, ask yourself, is saving 2-3 grams of fat per serving worth it? That’s the difference in fat between chicken legs and chicken breast. Not convinced?

Check out these reasons why you should look for more recipes with chicken legs:

Protein and Fat Content

On average, an adult needs 46-56 grams of protein per day. Are you meeting that requirement each day? Both cuts of a chicken leg provide substantial amounts of protein. Protein is a crucial nutrient to repair tissue and promote muscle growth. If you are eating a whole chicken leg, you are looking at around 54 grams of protein. Both the chicken thigh and drumstick contain 26-28 grams of protein each. That’s your daily requirement!

Additionally, chicken legs provide healthy fats to fuel your day. And just to be clear, we are talking about the “good fats.” Also known as monosaturated fats. When you eat a chicken breast, you miss out on essential fats your body needs. Not to mention, the taste of dark meat is more delicious. For us, it’s a no brainer!

Vitamins and Minerals

Using recipes with chicken legs is sure to boost your mineral intake. Chicken legs contain substantial amounts of both selenium and phosphorus. Both of these are needed for proper enzyme function.

Moreover, chicken legs offer high levels of B-12. For example, in one chicken thigh, you can intake 35% of your daily requirement of B-12. This essential vitamin is responsible for nerve and blood cells. It is said that hitting your daily intake of B-12 will help keep your energy high throughout the day.

Recipes for Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs don’t get enough credit. When looking for recipes with chicken legs, you are faced with the chicken thighs vs. chicken drumstick debate. Which is better? Ultimately, they each play their part at the dinner table. But, to start off, let’s talk about the thigh.

At Hilltop Acres, we carry both boneless/skinless and bone-in options. There is no right or wrong. All in all, it’s about preference. For example, skinless chicken thighs contain less fat. However, bone-in cuts are known to be more juicy and tender. Here are 3 reasons we love recipes with chicken thighs. Also, we have some fantastic dishes for you to try!

1. Chicken thighs are more flavourful. That’s right, we said it. It’s no secret that dark meat creates a more flavourful meal than chicken breast. Plus, if you take the time to braise your meat, you end up with melt in your mouth protein. The extra fats and collagen break down to create something amazing. Want to see for yourself? Try out this Wine-Braised Chicken Thigh Recipe with Shallots and Mushrooms.

2. Chicken thighs are meaty. Unlike other parts of the chicken, such as the wings, chicken thighs have an excellent bone to meat ratio. This way, you can take a bite without hitting bone. Alternatively, you can opt for boneless cuts. Without the bone, the chicken thighs will cook faster. This Juicy Stove Top Chicken Thigh Recipe is ready in just 20 minutes! If you are looking for a quick meal, this may be your best option.

3. It tastes better, but it costs you less. On average, chicken thighs cost a fraction of chicken breasts. You are getting crispy skin, flavourful meat, and easy cooking for 1/3 of the cost.

Recipes for Drumsticks

Next time you look for recipes with chicken legs, look for chicken drumsticks. This under-rated cut of meat is often overlooked. However, they are great for entertaining. Much like chicken thighs, they are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fats.

With the holiday season creeping up, it’s best to have some recipes in your back pocket. It’s not just about fried chicken these days. You can do so much more with a simple chicken drumstick. Here are a few ways to cook them:

Baked Chicken Drumsticks

Baking your drumsticks is the most popular way of cooking them for most people. It’s easy and creates an undeniable flavour. However, prepare for a longer cooking time than a chicken breast. The bone-in cuts of meat take a little bit longer. But, trust us, it will be worth it.

If you are looking for a recipe, the whole family will love, try these Easy Baked Chicken Legs. With just 5 ingredients, you will probably only need to buy the chicken itself. The remainder of the ingredients are typical kitchen staple foods. This simple cut of meat takes on whatever flavour you throw at it. Feel free to play around with the ingredients!

On the other hand, if you are looking for an easy appetizer to bring with you to a party, we have something for you: Buffalo Chicken Drumsticks. It’s a play on chicken wings. However, they are much better. Eating wings are a tedious task. Therefore, it’s time to give people what they want; more meat! Do you already have a wing recipe you know and love? Swap out the traditional wing for a drumstick! Your friends and family will thank you.

Last but not least, if you are a true Canadian, you probably haven’t said goodbye to your BBQ for the season. Here is How to Grill Chicken Drumsticks.

Where to Buy Chicken Legs

So, you’ve found a few recipes with chicken legs that you like. Now, its time to head out and buy some. Do you buy chicken thighs or chicken drumsticks? Actually, its best to buy whole chicken legs. They are the best bang for your buck.

Just like with anything, we suggest you source your ingredients locally. Not only does this allow you to learn about where it comes from, but also, you can get some tips and tricks from the butcher. For example, maybe you are feeling uncomfortable butchering your chicken legs into pieces. Generally speaking, your local butcher would be happy to do that for you. In turn, saving you time and money.

At Hilltop Acres Poultry Farm, we pride ourselves on helping our customers. Have questions regarding your recipes with chicken legs? We would be happy to help! Come visit us at the store or order your chicken online with the link provided below.