Get ready to make my top chicken leg quarters recipes. These recipes are sure to become your new favorites. Wondering how long to cook chicken leg quarters for that perfect taste and crispiness? We’ve got all the tips for all the different cooking methods, including tasty chicken leg quarters marinade recipes. Each recipe is a flavor adventure, guaranteed to make your meals exciting.These chicken leg quarter recipes are easy to follow and perfect for any night of the week.
For more delicious recipes with chicken, check out Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casserole Bake Recipes, Traeger Smoker Chicken Recipes, or Chicken Skillet Recipes.
What Is A Chicken Leg Quarter?
Chicken leg quarters, also known as chicken hindquarters or whole chicken leg quarters, combine the thigh and chicken drumsticks. This cut of chicken stands out for its dark meat, contrasting the white meat of the chicken breast. Chicken quarters bring a rich flavor and succulence, traits dark meat is famous for. Whole legs capture the heart of chicken’s universal appeal, offering a tender texture and a deeper taste. Ideal for various cooking methods, these quarters enrich dishes with their savory depth, making them a favorite for those who value the juicy, robust flavors dark meat delivers.
How Long To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters?
Cooking chicken leg quarters (chicken hind quarters) can be an art form, a simple pleasure that turns a basic ingredient from the grocery store into a masterpiece of crispy skin and tender meat. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a way to impress your dinner guests, you’ll love all these chicken leg quarters marinade recipes below. Let’s discuss the various techniques for cooking, first!
Oven-Baked Chicken Leg Quarters
Starting with the classic oven baked chicken leg quarters, the key to achieving that coveted crispy skin is to start with paper towels drying the chicken thoroughly. Preheat your oven to a preheated oven temperature of 400°F (200°C). Rub the chicken with olive oil or vegetable oil, then season generously (see recipes below). Place the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet or sheet pan, ensuring ample space between each piece. Line with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup. Bake until the skin is golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C), about 45 minutes to an hour. Cook time varies depending on the size of the piece of chicken. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters
For air fryer chicken leg quarters, the allure is in the speed and the crispy skin achieved with minimal oil. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Pat the chicken dry and rub with a mix of olive oil and spices prepared in a small bowl. Cook in a single layer for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cooking time may vary based on the air fryer model, so using a meat thermometer to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is crucial.
Slow Cooker Chicken Leg Quarters
Crock Pot chicken leg quarters recipes offer a set-it-and-forget-it convenience. Though you won’t get crispy skin directly from the slow cooker, the meat will be succulently tender. Season your chicken then place it in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For those who use chicken quarters crock pot recipes but prefer a bit of crisp, briefly broil the cooked chicken in a preheated oven on a baking sheet to achieve a golden brown finish.
Electric Pressure Cooker Chicken Leg Quarters
Instant Pot chicken leg quarters are perfect for when time is of the essence. Season the chicken, then use the sauté function to brown it in olive oil directly in the pot for a golden brown exterior. Add a cup of water or chicken broth, then cook on high pressure for about 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally. Check the safe internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This method won’t give you crispy skin, but the meat will be deliciously tender. You can use any of the recipes below and turn them into Instant Pot chicken quarters recipes by following this cooking tip.
Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
Grilling imbues chicken leg quarters with a smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate. Start with chicken at close to room temperature for even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the chicken with olive oil and season. Grill over indirect heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest before serving to ensure juiciness. If you’re looking for grilled chicken quarters recipes just use your favorite recipe flavor below and cook on the grill.
Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters
Smoking chicken leg quarters recipes are for those who truly love a deep, penetrating smoky flavor paired with crispy skin. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Season your chicken leg quarters and place them in a single layer on the smoker rack. Smoking time can vary, but generally, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The key to crispy skin in a smoker is to finish at a higher temperature for the last 15-20 minutes. Any of the easy chicken quarters recipes below will work with this smoked chicken quarters recipe instruction. Just season as the below recipe indicates and cook with this method.
Boiled Chicken Leg Quarters
Boiling might seem rudimentary, but it’s a foolproof way to achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone meat. It’s essential for soups, stews, or when you need cooked chicken as a starting point for other recipes. To boil chicken leg quarters, fill a large pot with enough water to cover the chicken. Add in aromatics like onion, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. How long to boil chicken leg quarters? Let the chicken cook uncovered for about 45 minutes to an hour. The instant-read thermometer should read a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). While you won’t get crispy skin with this method, the juicy meat can be used in a myriad of dishes. Consider Cheesy Chicken Pasta Casseroles or Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce.
Sous Vide Chicken Leg Quarters
Sous vide is a method that promises unparalleled flavor and texture control, making it perfect for those who love a gourmet touch in their easy weeknight dinner. To cook sous vide chicken quarters, start by seasoning your chicken or marinating it in a small bowl with your favorite spices and olive oil. Vacuum-seal the chicken or use a zipper-lock bag with the air pressed out. Cook in a water bath preheated to 165°F (74°C) for 4 to 6 hours. This low and slow method ensures the chicken is cooked through but remains supremely tender and juicy. Finish by searing the chicken in a hot pan to achieve a golden brown, crispy skin. The precise temperature control means you’re guaranteed perfect results every time.
Final Tips for Perfection
Regardless of the method, a few tips ensure perfection. Always pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the skin become crispy. Use a meat thermometer or an instant-read thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature. Let the chicken rest before carving to keep it juicy. And remember, whether it’s seasoned chicken for the grill or a simple recipe for the slow cooker, starting with quality chicken from your local grocery store makes all the difference.
Chicken Quarter Recipes
Enjoy these chicken quarter recipes with your favorite roasted vegetables and a Greek Green Salad. Make some Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Bread or Easy Garlic Naan.
Peruvian Chicken (Pollo a la Brasa)
Roast chicken leg quarter recipes just got a major upgrade with Pollo a la Brasa! It’s tender, juicy, and packed with spices. Forget regular rotisserie chicken; this is 10 times more flavorful. Peruvian Chicken is world-renowned for its complex, bold taste. Each bite delivers tangy, smoky, and citrusy notes.
Ready to make it tonight? Pair it with Aji Verde, the iconic green sauce. This dish turns a simple chicken into a juicy meat feast with its herb and spice mix. Celebrated across Peru, Pollo a la Brasa is a national favorite, especially on its dedicated day every July. Aji Verde sauce, with its creamy, spicy kick, completes the meal.
Click For Recipe: Pollo a la Brasa
Red Thai Curry Chicken Legs
Try our Thai Red Curry Chicken Legs recipe for an easy Thai food night. This dish is perfect for the whole family. Red curry paste and coconut milk make a rich spice mix. Just serve with jasmine rice. These whole chicken legs stay juicy and get a crispy skin.
It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s whole family-friendly. Just mix the sauce, pour over the legs, and bake. It’s super flavorful and great for meal prep!
Click For Recipe: Red Thai Curry Chicken Quarters
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters
Choose air fryer chicken leg quarters for an easy, delicious meal. This chicken recipe uses simple ingredients for the tastiest chicken recipes. Air frying gives you crispy skin and tender meat. No flour or breading needed, perfect for keto or low-carb diets. Learn how to cook chicken quarters in the air fryer, including tips. Seasoning ideas make each dish unique. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s ideal for a quick family dinner.
Click For Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters
Crispy Oven Roasted Chicken Legs with Potatoes
Season oven-baked chicken quarters with simple seasonings of salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. These chicken legs come out crispy on the outside and tender inside. They roast faster and easier than a whole chicken. Add baby potatoes, whole garlic cloves, and lemon slices for extra flavor. Customize this recipe to make it your own. Enjoy crispy skin and juicy meat in every bite.
Click For Recipe: Crispy Oven Roasted Chicken Legs with Potatoes
RELATED RECIPE: Lemon Chicken Sheet Pan Dinner With Potatoes
Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters
Try our smoked chicken quarters recipe for a simple, unforgettable dinner. Coat chicken with a seasoning mix for best results. Aromatic spices like chili powder and smoked paprika ensure juicy, smoky chicken. Finish with high heat for crispy skin. Perfect for your next BBQ. Use our spice blend for a flavorful kick. Dry brine with salt a day ahead for tender meat. Even a short brine improves flavor and texture.
Click For Recipe: Smoked Chicken Legs
Maple Roasted Chicken Quarters
This chicken quarter recipe makes flavorful chicken with maple syrup and roasted veggies. It’s easy and packed with so much flavor. Use legs, thighs, or quarters for a comforting meal. Kosher salt brings out the taste better than table salt. Maple syrup gives a sweet, savory glaze and caramelizes the skin. Thyme adds freshness, but feel free to try other herbs.
Click For Recipe: Maple Roasted Chicken
Crock Pot Leg Quarters
This crockpot chicken leg quarters recipe turns simple ingredients into juicy, crisp legs. It’s an easy, healthy, and budget-friendly dinner cooked in the slow cooker. Learn to make it in your slow cooker on low temperature or high temperature and finish in the oven.
Click For Recipe: Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarters
Middle Eastern Baked Chicken Quarters
Middle Eastern spices make these chicken quarters delicious and easy to prepare. Marinate for 20 minutes or longer for convenience. Keep marinated chicken in the fridge if needed. Brown sugar is the secret to juicy, well-crust chicken. It won’t make the chicken too sweet but balances the spices. High heat baking at 425-450° F seals in juices and creates a golden crust. Broil briefly for caramelized edges.
Click For Recipe: Middle Eastern Spiced Baked Chicken
Peri Peri Chicken
Spice up your meals with this Peri Peri Chicken recipe. It’s juicy, fiery, and irresistibly addictive. The sauce, made from red chilies, garlic, vinegar, and spices, originates from Southern Africa. “Peri Peri” means chili pepper in Swahili. Adjust the spice level with different chilies and recipes. Add lemon, herbs, and more for extra flavor. Perfect as a marinade for chicken or a spicy kick to seafood and veggies.
Click For Recipe: Peri Peri Chicken Leg Quarters
Grilled Jerk Chicken
Marinate this grilled jerk chicken overnight with Caribbean spices for a backyard taste adventure. Jerk chicken, with roots in the Caribbean, especially Jamaica, features a spicy marinade. Mix spices and chilis for the marinade, typically used on chicken and pork. Put chicken in a resealable bag, cover with marinade, and seal. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best.
Click For Recipe: Grilled Jerk Chicken Hind Quarters
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Marinade
A favorite marinade, cilantro lime sauce, adds bold flavor to grilled chicken. Lime and cilantro make it bright and fresh, while garlic and cumin add savory depth. Cook this cilantro lime chicken in the oven, on the stove, or best, on the grill. Grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the dish’s flavor. It’s ideal for an easy, flavorful summer meal.
Click For Recipe: Grilled Chicken with Cilantro Lime Marinade
Air Fryer Chicken Leg Quarters with Shawarma Spices
Chicken shawarma and potatoes are delicious! This one-pot, air-fried meal is perfect for lunch or dinner. The air fryer suits our fast-paced lives well. Shawarma seasoning includes cumin, curry, turmeric, and cinnamon. Also, it has nutmeg, clove, ginger, and cayenne pepper. Shawarma seasoning brings warm Middle Eastern flavors. Use this spice blend to season meat, fish, or vegetables for incredible flavor.
Click For Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Leg Quarters
Homemade Bread To Serve With Chicken
Chicken with 40 Cloves Garlic
Chicken with 40 Cloves Garlic is a classic, easy-to-make French dish. It blends aromatic herbs, fresh citrus, and honey with simple seasonings. Of course, it features plenty of fresh garlic. These ingredients create a beautifully flavorful chicken.
Click For Recipe: Chicken with 40 Cloves Garlic
Spiced Yogurt Chicken
Try this spiced yogurt roasted chicken leg quarters recipe. The yogurt ensures caramelization and crunch on the skin. Breast meat also works well with this recipe. The yogurt mix boosts the chicken’s flavor immensely. Warming spices like mace and cumin mix with onion and garlic perfectly in yogurt. These ingredients create an outstanding flavor profile we adore. Yogurt keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful, acting as a moisture-preserving “shell.”
Click For Recipe: Spiced Yogurt Roasted Chicken
More Recipes:
- Smoked Chicken Quarters with Easy BBQ Rub Recipe
- Citrus Brined Chicken
- Filipino Adobo Chicken Leg Quarters
- Maple Dijon Chicken Leg Quarters
- Barberry Rice with Chicken
- Air Fryer Jerk Chicken
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Bake chicken leg quarters at 400°F for about 45 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving. The size of the chicken quarter and the beginning internal temperature will dictate how long it takes to cook. Check the internal temperature at about 35 minutes to determine how much more time they will need to cook.
Bake chicken quarters at 450°F for about 35 to 40 minutes. Check with a meat thermometer that they’ve reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving. Check the internal temperature at about 30 minutes to determine how much more time they will need to cook.
To fry chicken leg quarters, it typically takes about 15 to 18 minutes. The chicken should be cooked in oil at a medium-high temperature (about 350°F to 375°F), turning occasionally until it’s golden brown and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
To smoke chicken quarters at 275°F, it usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
How To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 4 teaspoon olive oil
- 4 teaspoon seasoning see post for seasoning ideas
Instructions
Prep
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil and seasoning. See post for seasoning suggestions.
Oven Instructions
- Place chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes.
Air Fryer Instructions
- Place chicken in a single layer in air fryer basket. Cook at 380°F (190*C) for about 30 minutes, flipping over halfway through.
Slow Cooker Instructions (Crockpot)
- Place chicken in crockpot in a single layer. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Pressure Cooker Instructions (Instant Pot)
- Turn on sauté function. Drizzle olive oil in pot. Sauté chicken to brown on both sides.
- Add 1 cup of water or broth. Seal lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow for a natural release before removing lid.
Grilling Instructions
- Grill over indirect heat (not directly over the flames). Turn occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
Smoker Instructions
- Place chicken in a single layer on the smoker rack. Cook at 225°F (105°C) for 1.5-2 hours until cooked through.
- Finish at a higher temperature for the last 15-20 minutes for crispy skin.
Serving
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing from the heat.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or carving to keep it juicy.
Notes
- Brine Before Cooking: Soaking chicken leg quarters in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking can help retain moisture, leading to juicier meat.
- To achieve crispy chicken skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture. Then, rub the skin with a little olive oil or butter and season it as desired.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Cooking the chicken to the right temperature is crucial. Remove it from the heat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid overcooking.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist.
Nutrition
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Comments & Reviews
Gale says
I usually just put some lemon pepper on them and put in the oven at 400 until they’re cooked but some of these recipes look way better.