Go Back
chicken leg quarters

chicken leg quarters

Learn how to prepare juicy and flavorful chicken leg quarters with this easy, budget-friendly recipe. Includes step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, storage advice, and creative variations for a perfect meal every time.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ✅ Ingredients for Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe
  • Main Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken leg quarters thigh and drumstick attached
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
  • ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper freshly ground for best flavor
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  • Optional Flavor Enhancers:
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
  • ½ tsp onion powder for extra depth
  • 1 tbsp honey for a caramelized glaze
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard adds tangy depth
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce for umami richness
  • For Garnish & Serving:
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped
  • Lemon wedges for squeezing
  • Side dishes: roasted veggies rice, or salad

Notes

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Leg Quarters

🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
  2. Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve crispy skin.
  3. Trim excess fat or skin if needed, but leave enough to keep the meat juicy.

🌿 Step 2: Season the Chicken

  1. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Brush or rub the seasoning all over the chicken, coating both sides evenly.
  3. Drizzle lemon juice over the top for extra flavor and tenderness.

🔥 Step 3: Cook the Chicken (Choose Your Cooking Method)

🍗 Oven-Roasting Method (Best for crispy skin)
  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease a roasting pan.
  2. Place the chicken skin-side up on the tray.
  3. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
  4. Baste with pan juices halfway through for extra moisture.
  5. For crispy skin, broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
🔥 Grilling Method (For smoky flavor)
  1. Grease the grill grates lightly with oil.
  2. Place the chicken on the grill skin-side down and cook for 8-10 minutes.
  3. Flip and cook for another 10-12 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 175°F.
  4. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
🍲 Slow Cooker Method (For fall-off-the-bone tenderness)
  1. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker.
  2. Add ½ cup chicken broth for extra moisture.
  3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
  4. To crisp the skin, broil for 3-5 minutes before serving.
🍳 Air Fryer Method (Quick & crispy option)
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place the chicken quarters in the basket, skin-side up.
  3. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. Ensure the internal temperature is 175°F before serving.

⏳ Step 4: Rest & Serve

  1. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This keeps it juicy.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges.
  3. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice.