Coriander-and-Almond-Crusted Chicken Legs

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup whole blanched almonds
2. 2 1/2 tablespoons coriander seeds
3. 2 teaspoons white peppercorns
4. 2 teaspoons yellow mustard seeds
5. 2 1/4 teaspoons sea salt
6. 1 1/4 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest
7. 4 whole chicken legs (2 1/2 pounds)
8. 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
9. Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make It

Step 1
Preheat the oven to 400°. 
In a spice grinder, pulse the almonds until finely ground. Transfer to a large bowl. In the spice grinder, grind the coriander, peppercorns and mustard seeds until coarsely ground. Add to the large bowl along with the salt and lemon zest and 
mix well. Brush the chicken with olive oil, then dredge in the almond mixture, pressing to help it adhere.

Step 2
In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the 1/4 cup of olive oil over moderate heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken, skin side down, and cook until lightly browned, 8 to 10 minutes. Flip and cook until very lightly browned on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the chicken until an instant-read thermometer inserted in 
the thickest part of each thigh registers 165°, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.

Make Ahead
The spiced almond coating can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Suggested Pairing
Wine: Vibrant Côtes du Rhône red.