Looking to spice up your dinner routine with new and exciting recipes? Chicken leg quarters are a versatile and budget-friendly option that can be prepared in many delicious ways.
Packed with flavor and easy to cook, these chicken dishes are perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or roasting, you’ll find a variety of methods to suit your taste and kitchen style.
1) Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Leg Quarters
Lemon herb roasted chicken leg quarters are a delicious, easy-to-make dish. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin.
Make a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken quarters.
Place the chicken in a baking dish. Add sliced onions and lemon wedges around them for extra flavor. This creates a savory and aromatic dish that fills your kitchen with delightful scents.
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes to an hour. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin. Serve your lemon herb roasted chicken leg quarters with a side of roasted vegetables or salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy the rich and tangy flavors with every bite.
2) Honey Garlic Chicken Leg Quarters
Honey Garlic Chicken Leg Quarters are an easy and delicious dish to prepare. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Line a baking dish with aluminum foil to make clean-up easier.
In a small bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar. Whisk until well combined. This mixture will be your marinade and sauce.
Place the chicken leg quarters on the baking dish. Use a brush to coat the chicken with the honey garlic sauce. Make sure every part is covered evenly.
Bake for about 40-45 minutes. The chicken should be crispy and caramelized on the outside. The inside should be thoroughly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
For extra flavor, you can baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through cooking. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps lock in the juices.
Pair this dish with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal. Honey Garlic Chicken Leg Quarters offer a great blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any dinner.
3) Spicy Baked Chicken Leg Quarters
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make clean-up easier.
In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. For extra heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy. Brush both sides of the chicken lightly with olive oil.
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get the seasoning under the skin as well. Place the chicken, skin side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the chicken leg quarters in the oven for about 40-45 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), take it out of the oven. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps retain the juices.
Serve your spicy baked chicken leg quarters hot and enjoy the blend of spices with every bite. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
4) BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
BBQ grilled chicken leg quarters are a tasty and simple option for any meal. Start by prepping your chicken with a dry rub. Combine ingredients like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin.
Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, heat your grill to around 450°F. Once preheated, place the chicken on the grill. Cook for 20 minutes on each side using indirect heat.
After that, move the chicken to direct heat for a few minutes on each side to make the skin crispy. Use a basting sauce of your choice. BBQ sauce works well. Brush it on the chicken and let it cook for a few more minutes.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F. Once done, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
BBQ grilled chicken leg quarters are great for any gathering. They’re easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy!
5) Garlic Parmesan Chicken Leg Quarters
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
In a bowl, mix garlic powder, salt, and grated parmesan cheese. Add cornstarch to the mix for extra crispiness.
Trim any excess skin and fat from the chicken leg quarters and pat them dry with paper towels.
Brush the chicken quarters lightly with oil. Then, coat them with the garlic parmesan mixture, making sure to cover all sides evenly.
Place the seasoned chicken leg quarters on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them at 400°F for about 30-35 minutes.
Turn the chicken pieces halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Cook until the chicken is crispy and fully cooked through. You can check this by making sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For an extra burst of flavor, you can make a garlic parmesan sauce. Saute minced garlic in melted butter for 1-2 minutes. Whisk in some flour, and then add chicken broth and cream. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
Serve the chicken leg quarters with the sauce on top or on the side. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
6) Balsamic Glazed Chicken Leg Quarters
Balsamic glazed chicken leg quarters are a tasty choice for dinner. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easy.
Mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, and a dash of salt and pepper in a bowl. This will be your glaze.
Place the chicken leg quarters on the baking sheet and brush them with the balsamic glaze. Be sure to coat each piece well.
Roast the chicken in the oven for 40-45 minutes. Halfway through cooking, brush the chicken with more glaze. This helps build a deep, rich flavor.
Check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pair this dish with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. The tangy balsamic glaze will add a delightful twist to your meal.
7) Cajun Spiced Chicken Leg Quarters
Cajun spiced chicken leg quarters are packed with flavor and have a delightful kick. You’ll start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This spice mix will give your chicken a bold and zesty taste.
Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken leg quarters. Make sure to coat them evenly.
Place the coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven until the meat is no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, which should take about 40 to 45 minutes.
For best results, check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C) near the bone.
Serve your Cajun spiced chicken leg quarters with your favorite sides. They pair well with mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. This dish is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
8) Teriyaki Marinated Chicken Leg Quarters
For a flavorful twist on chicken leg quarters, try marinating them in a homemade teriyaki sauce. Start by mixing soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This blend infuses the chicken with a savory and slightly sweet taste.
Once the marinade is mixed, pour it over the chicken leg quarters and let them soak for at least two hours. Ideally, marinate them overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F.
Heat olive oil in an oven-proof pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken leg quarters for about three minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This step locks in the marinade’s crispy, caramelized flavor on the skin.
After searing, transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 170°F. This ensures the meat is juicy and fully cooked.
Serve the teriyaki marinated chicken leg quarters with steamed rice and veggies. The combination offers a delicious and well-balanced meal that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.
9) Paprika and Lime Chicken Leg Quarters
Paprika and lime add a refreshing twist to chicken leg quarters. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Start by washing and patting dry the chicken with paper towels. This ensures the seasoning sticks well.
In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. You can also add a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor. Rub this mixture over the chicken.
Place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Make sure to place the chicken skin side up. This will help the skin get crispy.
Bake the chicken for about 40 minutes until it is fully cooked. Check the internal temperature; it should be 165°F. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
Serve with a side of your choice. The combination of paprika’s smokiness and lime’s tanginess makes this dish flavorful and inviting.
10) Buffalo Style Chicken Leg Quarters
Buffalo Style Chicken Leg Quarters are a tasty option for wing lovers. The spicy and tangy sauce gives the chicken a bold flavor.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. In a saucepan, combine wing sauce, honey, and butter. Cook this over medium heat until the butter melts.
While the sauce is cooking, trim any extra skin and fat from the chicken leg quarters. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Once the sauce is done, coat the chicken with the sauce. Use a brush to apply it evenly on both sides.
Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 40-45 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps keep it juicy.
Serve your Buffalo Style Chicken Leg Quarters with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for the perfect meal.
11) Rosemary and Thyme Chicken Leg Quarters
Rosemary and thyme bring out the best in chicken leg quarters. These herbs offer a fragrant and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich taste of the chicken.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Lightly oil a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking. Trim the chicken of any excess skin and pat them dry with paper towels.
Season the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper. Next, sprinkle dried rosemary and thyme evenly over both sides. Place the chicken leg quarters in the prepared baking dish.
Cut russet potatoes into small pieces and spread them around the chicken. Drizzle everything with extra virgin olive oil. Make sure the potatoes and chicken are in a single layer for even cooking.
Bake for about 35 to 45 minutes. Check if the chicken is fully cooked by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The potatoes should be golden and crispy by then.
This straightforward recipe is perfect for any weeknight meal and requires minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor.
Enjoy the savory taste of rosemary and thyme in each juicy bite of chicken.
12) Orange and Soy Glazed Chicken Leg Quarters
Orange and soy together create a flavorful glaze that gives chicken leg quarters a tangy and savory taste. This recipe combines fresh orange juice and soy sauce for a delicious marinade.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil for an easy cleanup. Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, mix orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and a bit of minced garlic. Pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated well. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
Place the marinated chicken leg quarters skin-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes. Halfway through, you can brush on extra glaze for a richer flavor.
For a final touch, broil the chicken for a few minutes until the skin is crispy. Serve your Orange and Soy Glazed Chicken Leg Quarters with a side of steamed vegetables or rice.
13) Crispy Oven-Fried Chicken Leg Quarters
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve crispy skin.
Mix your favorite seasonings in a small bowl. Common choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Lightly brush the chicken with oil to help the seasoning stick.
Rub the seasonings evenly on both sides.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with half a cup of cooking oil.
Sear the chicken quarters in the hot oil until they are golden brown on both sides.
Place the seared chicken on an oven-safe rack set over a baking sheet, skin side up.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Enjoy crispy, oven-fried chicken leg quarters!
14) Mediterranean Chicken Leg Quarters
Mediterranean chicken leg quarters are full of flavor and easy to make. The key to this dish lies in the marinade and seasoning, which typically include ingredients like oregano, garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
Start by marinating the chicken in a mix of these flavors. Make sure to apply the marinade under the skin of the chicken for maximum taste.
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Arrange the chicken quarters on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper or foil.
Brush the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with salt to taste. You can also add a sprig of rosemary under the skin for an extra burst of aroma.
Bake the chicken for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This will ensure the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
Serve your Mediterranean chicken leg quarters with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal.
15) Apple Cider Vinegar Marinated Chicken Leg Quarters
Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy flavor to your chicken. It helps to tenderize the meat and gives it a delicious taste.
Start by mixing apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can add Italian seasoning for extra flavor. This marinade works well for chicken leg quarters.
Poke your chicken leg quarters with a fork. This helps the marinade to soak in better. Place the chicken in a large plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat it well.
Refrigerate the chicken for at least an hour. You can leave it for up to 12 hours for more flavor.
After marinating, remove the chicken and shake off the excess marinade. Heat your grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Grill the chicken for about 4-6 minutes on each side. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of the chicken.
Use a pastry brush to apply more marinade while grilling. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. Serve the grilled chicken leg quarters hot and enjoy the tangy, savory taste.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Leg Quarters
Chicken leg quarters offer a rich source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals that are important for your diet.
Protein Content
Chicken leg quarters are an excellent source of protein. Each serving provides about 28 grams of protein, a critical nutrient for muscle repair and growth.
Protein also supports your immune system and helps you feel full longer, which can aid in weight management.
Incorporating chicken leg quarters into your meals ensures you’re getting a substantial amount of protein to meet your daily needs.
Vitamins and Minerals
Chicken leg quarters are packed with important vitamins and minerals. These include B vitamins like B6 and B12, which support energy metabolism and brain health.
They also contain iron and zinc, essential for blood health and immune function.
Lastly, chicken leg quarters provide phosphorus, which is necessary for bone health and kidney function. Including them in your diet can help you meet your nutritional requirements effectively.
Cooking Techniques for Chicken Leg Quarters
There are several effective methods to cook chicken leg quarters, each bringing out unique flavors and textures. These techniques include grilling, baking, and slow cooking.
Grilling
Grilling chicken leg quarters can give them a smoky and charred flavor. Start by marinating the chicken for at least a couple of hours. A marinade made of citrus juices, garlic, and spices can penetrate the meat and add depth of flavor.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin side down and cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This ensures even cooking and crispy skin. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain the juices.
Baking
Baking is an easy and hands-off method to cook chicken leg quarters. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Prepare a baking sheet with aluminum foil or use a baking rack to allow the heat to circulate.
Season the chicken with a rub made from spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the chicken with oil and place it on the rack. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, flipping once to achieve an even crispiness.
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking chicken leg quarters results in tender and flavorful meat. Begin by seasoning the chicken with your favorite spices. Place the chicken in the slow cooker with a small amount of broth or marinade.
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method is forgiving and allows the chicken to stay moist. You can also add vegetables to the slow cooker for a complete meal.
Before serving, you can broil the chicken in the oven for a few minutes to crisp up the skin.
Each of these techniques brings out different flavors and textures, giving you various ways to enjoy chicken leg quarters.
Pairing Chicken Leg Quarters with Sides
Matching your chicken leg quarters with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great vegetable, grain, and starch options to complement this dish.
Vegetable Options
Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts alongside chicken can enhance flavors. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting in the oven.
Steamed Asparagus: Asparagus is a light, healthy side. You can steam it lightly and drizzle with lemon juice or a bit of butter. It’s quick to make and pairs well with the rich taste of chicken.
Green Beans Almondine: Green beans sautéed with sliced almonds offer both crunch and flavor. Simply blanch the beans and sauté them with almonds, a bit of garlic, and a squeeze of lemon.
Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette can lighten up your meal. Adding nuts or cranberries adds texture and flavor.
Grains and Starches
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic side. Enhance them with garlic or cheese for extra flavor. They complement the juicy, seasoned chicken perfectly.
Rice Pilaf: Rice pilaf is a versatile side. Cook rice with onions, garlic, and chicken broth for added depth. You can also mix in vegetables like peas and carrots.
Quinoa Salad: Quinoa is a healthy, protein-rich grain. Make a quinoa salad with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple lemon dressing. It’s both nutritious and delicious.
Cornbread: Cornbread adds a touch of sweetness to your meal. It’s also great for soaking up the juices from your chicken leg quarters. Serve it warm with a bit of butter.
