5 Delicious Chicken Leg Quarters Recipes You'll Love

When it comes to versatile cuts of meat, chicken leg quarters are often overlooked, yet they offer immense potential for creating hearty, flavorsome meals. From crispy baked chicken to succulent slow-cooked BBQ dishes, there's a myriad of ways to cook chicken leg quarters that can satisfy any palate. Here, we'll explore five delicious recipes that highlight the diversity and scrumptiousness of chicken leg quarters, ensuring you'll have plenty of options for dinner gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters with Rosemary and Garlic

One of the simplest yet flavorful ways to cook chicken leg quarters is by baking them with fresh herbs and garlic.

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
• Steps:
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a bowl, mix olive oil with minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
  4. Brush the chicken leg quarters with the herb mixture.
  5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
  6. Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Optionally, add lemon slices around the chicken in the last 10 minutes of baking for added zest.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

💡 Note: Always let your chicken rest to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicier result.

Crispy Fried Chicken Leg Quarters

If you’re looking for something with a bit of crunch, nothing beats the classic fried chicken. Here’s how you can achieve that perfect crispy exterior:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 cup of buttermilk
  • 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Steps:
  1. Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Mix flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring all parts are well coated.
  4. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the chicken pieces for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C).
  6. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters

The slow cooker is perfect for infusing deep BBQ flavors into chicken leg quarters:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 cup of BBQ sauce
  • ½ cup of chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke (optional)
  • 1 onion, sliced
• Steps:
  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
  2. Place sliced onions in the slow cooker.
  3. Layer the chicken over the onions.
  4. Combine BBQ sauce, chicken broth, and liquid smoke, then pour over the chicken.
  5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  6. If desired, finish under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.

🍽 Note: Use liquid smoke for an authentic smoky flavor without the need for outdoor grilling.

Grilled Lemon-Herb Chicken Leg Quarters

Grilling is another great method to enjoy chicken leg quarters with a fresh, tangy twist:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • Zest and juice from 2 lemons
  • 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Steps:
  1. Combine lemon zest, juice, oregano, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
  2. Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, up to 8 hours.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally to cook evenly.
  5. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Coconut Curry Chicken Leg Quarters

For a taste of the exotic, try this coconut curry recipe:

• Ingredients:
  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons of red curry paste
  • 1 tablespoon of fish sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
  • Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for serving
• Steps:
  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Brown the chicken on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
  3. Remove chicken, and in the same pan, sauté onions and bell pepper until softened.
  4. Stir in curry paste, then add coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and let simmer for about 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
  6. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

In conclusion, chicken leg quarters can be transformed into a variety of mouthwatering dishes, each offering a unique flavor profile. From the straightforward yet delicious baked chicken to the complexity of a coconut curry, these recipes cater to diverse tastes and can become staples in your meal rotation. Whether you're in the mood for comfort food, something with a bit of spice, or a dish for grilling out, there's a recipe here that will inspire you to try something new or perfect an old favorite. Enjoy the journey of exploring different culinary techniques and flavors with chicken leg quarters!

Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of leg quarters for these recipes?

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Yes, you can! Chicken thighs and drumsticks can substitute leg quarters quite well, though you might need to adjust cooking times due to smaller sizes. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure doneness.

What sides go well with these chicken leg quarter recipes?

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For BBQ chicken, consider potato salad, corn on the cob, or coleslaw. Baked or grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. With coconut curry chicken, jasmine rice, or naan bread would complement the flavors nicely.

How can I ensure my chicken leg quarters stay juicy and not dry out?

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To keep chicken leg quarters from drying out, marinating them helps lock in moisture. Additionally, cooking methods like baking with liquid or slow cooking retain moisture well. Also, never overcook; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.

Are there any health benefits to eating chicken leg quarters?

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Chicken leg quarters are rich in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. They also contain essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. However, moderation is key due to their higher fat content compared to chicken breast.

Can I make these recipes ahead of time?

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Yes, many of these recipes are suitable for make-ahead meals. You can marinate the chicken the day before, or prepare dishes like the slow cooker BBQ chicken or baked chicken, then reheat gently before serving. Just ensure the chicken is thoroughly heated to 165°F (75°C) before consumption.