Quick Answer
There are typically between 2 to 4 chicken legs in one pound. The exact number can vary based on the size of the chicken legs. Larger, meatier chicken legs may yield around 2 per pound, while smaller legs could have 3 to 4 pieces per pound.
Calculating Chicken Legs Per Pound
To determine how many chicken legs are in a pound, you’ll need to consider a few factors:
Chicken Leg Size
The most significant factor is the size of the chicken legs. Chicken legs are sold in different sizes, which affects how many fit into a pound.
Small chicken legs: 4 to 5 per pound
Medium chicken legs: 3 to 4 per pound
Large chicken legs: 2 to 3 per pound
So if you have larger, meatier legs, expect around 2 to 3 legs per pound. Smaller skinny legs may have 4 to 5 in a pound.
Bone vs Boneless
Bone-in chicken legs will weigh more than boneless. With the bone removed, more boneless chicken legs by weight will fit into a pound.
For bone-in, plan on 2 to 4 legs per pound. Boneless could be 4 to 6 per pound.
Brand and Source
The brand and source of the chicken can impact size too. Free-range and organic chickens may have smaller, skinnier legs than conventionally raised broilers. Kosher and halal chicken legs may also be smaller in size.
Typical Nutrition Facts
Here are the typical nutrition facts for 4 oz of chicken legs with skin:
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 221 | 15g | 15g | 0g |
Chicken legs are high in protein and relatively low in fat when the skin is removed. The protein helps keep you full and supports muscle growth.
Average Cost of Chicken Legs
On average, you can expect to pay:
- Chicken drumsticks: $1.99 to $3.99 per pound
- Chicken thighs: $3.49 to $4.99 per pound
- Boneless, skinless thighs: $4.99 to $7.99 per pound
Of course, prices vary depending on the store and whether they are on sale. Bulk buying can bring down the price per pound.
Should You Buy Bone-In or Boneless?
This comes down to personal preference:
Bone-in chicken legs
- Typically cheaper per pound
- More flavor from the bones
- Can make broth from bones
- Take longer to cook
Boneless chicken legs
- More expensive per pound
- Cook faster
- Easier to eat
- Harder to keep moist
Choose boneless if you want faster cooking times or don’t want to be bothered removing bones. Go with bone-in for maximum flavor and to save money.
How Much Chicken Legs to Buy
Use these guidelines when calculating how many pounds of chicken legs to purchase:
- For drumsticks, plan on 2 to 3 pieces per adult serving
- For thighs, allow 1 to 2 thighs per adult serving
- For kids portions, plan on 1 drumstick or thigh per child
- For boneless thighs, estimate 3 to 4 oz per adult serving
So for a family of four, you might buy:
- 2 pounds drumsticks (8 to 12 pieces total)
- 1 1/2 pounds bone-in thighs (6 to 8 pieces total)
- 1 pound boneless thighs
Adjust amounts as needed depending on appetites and the number of adults and children eating.
Common Ways to Cook Chicken Legs
Chicken legs are versatile and pair well with many flavors. Here are some popular cooking methods:
Baked Chicken Legs
Chicken legs baked in the oven, often coated in breadcrumbs, barbecue sauce, or seasoning. Bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
Grilled Chicken Legs
Legs can be grilled over medium-high heat for 8-12 minutes per side. Brush with barbecue sauce or spice rub before grilling.
Fried Chicken Legs
Typically marinated then coated in flour or batter and fried on the stovetop until crispy. Very flavorful but high in fat and calories.
Slow Cooker Chicken Legs
Cook low and slow in a sauce or broth for fall-off-the-bone tender chicken. Takes 4-6 hours on low in a slow cooker.
Chicken Leg Quarters
The entire leg portion including the thigh and drumstick. Takes longer to cook than individual pieces but very convenient.
Chicken Leg Recipes
Some favorite recipes for chicken legs include chicken curry, honey garlic chicken legs, crispy baked chicken legs, and chicken adobo.
Tips for Cooking Chicken Legs
To enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken legs at home:
- Pat the legs dry before cooking for crispy skin
- Use a meat thermometer – target 165°F internal temp
- Avoid overcooking or legs will be dry and tough
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
- Save bones for homemade chicken stock
Properly cooked chicken legs are hard to beat for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.
Storing Leftover Chicken Legs
Here are some tips for storing leftover chicken legs:
- Refrigerate within 2 hours in shallow airtight containers
- Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and quality
- To freeze, portion chicken into freezer bags or containers
- Frozen chicken legs last 2-3 months in the freezer
- Reheat thoroughly to 165°F until hot and steaming
Proper storage keeps chicken legs safe to eat and maintains moisture so they don’t dry out. Freeze any portions you won’t use right away.
Making Complete Meals with Chicken Legs
Chicken legs are very versatile and can be incorporated into all types of meals:
Chicken Salad
Use diced cooked chicken in chicken salads for lunches or light dinners. Add mayo, celery, nuts, and seasonings.
Chicken Soup
Simmer cooked chicken legs in broth with veggies and noodles for homemade chicken soup.
Chicken Tacos
Shred cooked chicken and add to tacos with your favorite toppings for a tasty taco night.
Chicken Pizza
Top homemade or store-bought pizza crust with shredded chicken, sauce, and cheese for chicken pizza.
Chicken Sandwiches
Shred chicken and pile onto rolls or bread for yummy chicken sandwiches or subs.
Chicken Leg Wraps
Wrap pieces of chicken legs in lettuce or tortillas with veggies and cheese for hand-held lunches.
The mild flavor of chicken legs makes them perfect for both savory and sweet dishes. Try them in stir fries, pastas, sandwiches, salads, and more.
Nutrition Benefits of Chicken Legs
Chicken legs provide many important nutrients:
- Protein – Chicken is a high quality source of lean protein needed for muscle repair and maintenance.
- B Vitamins – Includes niacin and B6. Essential for energy production and red blood cell formation.
- Selenium – An important antioxidant that supports a healthy immune system.
- Phosphorus – Helps strengthen bones and teeth.
- Iron – Needed for proper oxygen transport in the blood.
Chicken legs without skin are relatively low in fat, especially when compared to dark meat chicken. Removing skin reduces the fat and calorie count.
Health Benefits of Chicken Legs
Chicken legs provide several health benefits:
Weight Control
Chicken is a lean, high protein food that helps you feel fuller longer. Eating adequate protein promotes satiety, making it easier to reduce calories and control your weight.
Muscle Growth & Maintenance
The protein in chicken helps maintain and build muscle mass as you age. This protects against age-related muscle loss.
Heart Health
Chicken is much lower in unhealthy saturated fat compared to red meat. Consuming skinless chicken as part of a healthy diet supports better cardiovascular health.
Energy Levels
Chicken legs are packed with B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, and B6. These all help convert food into usable energy.
Brain Function
Chicken provides choline, which is a nutrient associated with healthy brain development and prevention of neurological disorders.
As long as you don’t eat chicken legs fried or with skin in excess, they can be part of a healthy diet and provide excellent nutrition.
Risks and Safety Concerns
There are a few safety considerations when handling and consuming chicken legs:
- Salmonella risk – Raw chicken can harbor bacteria that causes food poisoning. Use proper cleaning and cooking.
- High cholesterol – Chicken skin is high in cholesterol, so consumption should be limited for those with high cholesterol.
- Foodborne illness – Undercooked chicken puts you at risk for bacterial contamination.
- Allergies – Some people are allergic to chicken protein and must avoid consumption.
- Choking hazard – Chicken bones could potentially obstruct airways if not chewed thoroughly.
As long as raw chicken is handled properly and cooked to safe internal temperatures, chicken legs pose little risk for most people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about chicken legs:
Why are some chicken legs larger than others?
Chicken leg size depends on the breed, diet, farming methods, and age when processed. Fast growing commercial chickens often have larger legs than slower growing specialty breeds.
Is the skin healthy to eat?
Chicken skin is high in fat, cholesterol, and calories compared to the lean meat. Leaving the skin on provides more flavor, but for health remove it when possible.
What’s the healthiest way to prepare chicken legs?
Grilling, roasting, baking, or slow cooking without skin is healthiest. Frying adds a lot of excess oil and calories.
How long do cooked chicken legs last in the fridge?
Cooked chicken legs stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze any leftovers you won’t eat within that timeframe.
Should I brine chicken legs before cooking?
Brining helps chicken legs retain moisture and flavor, especially when baking or grilling. Soak 15-60 minutes in a saltwater brine before cooking.
Conclusion
Chicken legs are an affordable, lean protein to incorporate into your diet. Allow 2-4 bone-in or 4-6 boneless legs per pound, depending on size. Chicken legs make delicious meals when baked, grilled, or slow cooked. For convenience, buy them bone-in and remove bones after cooking. Cook thoroughly and follow proper storage guidelines to enjoy their full nutrition benefits safely. Add a side of veggies and grains to chicken legs for a nutritionally balanced meal.