Baked Chicken Leg Quarters are simple to prepare and clean up. Win-win! Outrageously delicious and economical together make the perfect weeknight meal for the rotation. When you don’t even have time to think, this recipe is a life-saver.
This great recipe only needs a few ingredients and a few minutes to make. It will make a delicious dinner that the whole family will love.
You don’t have to worry if someone is on a special diet because this Baked Chicken Leg Quarters is okay for almost all of them, except vegetarian and Paleo one.
You can make the spice mix ahead of time for your own bake and shake, which makes this even easier. Add melted butter or oil, and you’re good to go. With some potatoes and carrots in the bottom of the pan, you have the perfect one-pot meal.
I prefer dark meat over white, not that I don’t have my favorite chicken breast recipes. But when I want juicy and flavorful, I go for the legs and thighs, baby. For a switch out, I love these Smoked Chicken Legs recipe that, of course, can use leg quarters, too.
And they’re much more forgiving than the breast. If you accidentally overcook the breast, you have a tough, dry piece of meat. However, if you overcook legs and thighs, they just get better.
When a thigh, drumstick, and part of the back are attached, this cut is called a chicken leg quarter.
Unlike the white meat part of the breast, this is dark meat. It has a higher fat content, which makes it juicier and more flavorful.
This is my go-to cut of chicken because it’s the cheapest. Why? Labor is expensive, and a boneless skinless chicken breast takes more time to process. Therefore it’s more costly.
Leg quarters are easier to process, making them more economical. So, not only are they better tasting, they are more budget-friendly.
Did you know that you can usually get a whole chicken cheaper than a boneless, skinless chicken breast?
Don’t waste the juice that collects at the bottom of the pan. These drippings are what make an incredibly flavored gravy.
Check to see if they’re done by inserting an instant-read thermometer (165-180℉/74-82℃) in the meatiest part of the thigh, being mindful not to touch the bone.
Cover the baking chicken leg quarters with aluminum foil if they start getting too brown before the inside is done.
Brining chicken is another good way to ensure juicy, tender chicken, whether thighs or breast. My multipurpose brine for pork works for chicken, too.
My first reaction to this question is, “until they’re done!” Sorry, I know you want a specific time. Still, it all depends on the oven temperature, the altitude, and the size of the chicken leg quarters. They can take 60-90 minutes, but keep baking until the internal temperature should read 180-190℉/82-88℃.
The easiest way to season chicken is salt and pepper. You know I love Creole seasoning, so that’s my go-to spice mix. However, za’atar, Mexican, Jamaican are all great options that let you change this recipe every time you make this scrumptious baked chicken leg quarters recipe.
The skin is my favorite part of the chicken. I understand if you’re worried about extra fat, but leaving the skin on will keep the chicken from drying out. So, for delicious and juicy chicken, leave the skin on.
These are even better if you can marinate them the night before and keep them in the fridge overnight. Then, they’re already ready to put in the oven.
They will last cooked in the fridge for three or four days. Reheat them in the oven for crispier skin.
A time-saver is to cube potatoes and carrots and put them in the bottom of the pan. Arrange the chicken on top and bake.
It’s great with mashed potatoes and a salad, too. And don’t forget how yummy fresh baked bread is with this amazing dish.
Chicken leg quarters are an underappreciated gem that offers home cooks an affordable and flavorful alternative to popular chicken breast. Comprised of the thigh and drumstick leg quarters contain juicy dark meat that is packed with natural umami flavors.
I love cooking with chicken leg quarters because they are budget-friendly easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Whether roasted, braised, grilled or fried, chicken leg quarters transform humble ingredients into comforting, hearty meals.
This article will show you 7 tasty ways to use chicken leg quarters in your own kitchen and give you tips on how to get the most out of this cheap and tasty cut of chicken.
Before diving into recipes, let’s overview some key advantages of cooking with chicken leg quarters:
-
Cost effective – Leg quarters are often the most budget-friendly cut of chicken available Buying them in bulk when on sale can help lower the weekly food budget
-
Juicy and flavorful – With higher fat content and connective tissue compared to breast meat, leg quarters stay tender and moist during cooking. Their dark meat offers richer, deeper flavor.
-
Hardy and forgiving – Chicken leg quarters hold up well to a variety of cooking methods. Overcooking impacts texture less than with delicate breast meat.
-
Versatile – Leg quarters work great in everything from weeknight skillet meals to low and slow braises. Their hearty texture also makes them perfect for shredding.
-
Nutritious – Don’t be fooled by their affordability – leg quarters provide many of the same nutrients as pricier cuts, including protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins.
Now let’s explore some of my favorite ways to cook with this underrated chicken cut!
1. Oven Roasted Chicken Leg Quarters
Nothing beats a simple roast chicken, and leg quarters take beautifully to high heat roasting. Crispy seasoned skin gives way to tender, juicy meat. Roasting tips:
-
Pat leg quarters dry before seasoning to help crisping. Rub with oil, salt, pepper and desired herbs/spices.
-
Use a high oven temp (400°F+) to achieve crispy skin. Put a wire rack inside a baking sheet with a rim to raise the food.
-
Roast for 45-60 minutes until chicken is browned and juices run clear (165°F). Broil at end to finish skin.
Serve roasted quarters with your favorite sauces and sides for an easy, comforting meal.
2. Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
The smoky char of the grill pairs perfectly with chicken leg quarters. Quick marinades infuse flavor before getting a nice char. Grilling tips:
-
Keep marinades acidic (lemon juice, vinegar, yogurt) for food safety when marinating raw chicken.
-
Use indirect heat, keeping chicken off direct flame. This allows even cooking without burning.
-
Grill over med-high heat for 25-35 minutes, turning every 5-10 minutes until done.
Grilled leg quarters are amazing in sandwiches, salads and more. The smoky flavor takes these humble quarters up a notch!
3. Braised Chicken Leg Quarters
For fall-off-the-bone tender chicken swimming in rich sauce, braising is the way to go. Low, slow cooking tenderizes while building deep flavor. Braising tips:
-
Brown leg quarters first to develop fond (browned bits) before adding liquid.
-
Use acidic braising liquids like wine, tomatoes or broth. They’ll tenderize and balance flavor.
-
Braise covered on low heat for 1-2 hours until very tender before uncovering to reduce sauce.
Braised chicken leg quarters pair perfectly with noodles or mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious braising liquid.
4. Chicken Leg Quarter Soup
Shredding cooked leg quarters is a simple way to stretch them into hearty, budget friendly soups and stews. Try them in classics like chicken noodle soup, chicken tortilla soup or chicken and dumplings. Soup tips:
-
Poach or roast quarters first until cooked through and shred with two forks.
-
For deeper flavor, sauté aromatics, roast bones/wings and simmer before adding shredded chicken.
-
Hand torn pieces and shreds of chicken give soup more textural appeal than diced meat.
Transform chicken leg quarters into soothing, soul-warming soups perfect for chilly nights.
5. Fried Chicken Leg Quarters
Fried chicken is hard to beat when you’re craving comfort food. Leg quarters are ideal for frying with their rich dark meat and ample skin. Frying tips:
-
Buttermilk or egg soak helps seasoning adhere and contributes to crispy coating.
-
Use a thermometer – aim for 350°F oil to avoid burning. Don’t overcrowd pan.
-
Let oil drain off and chicken rest before serving for ideal texture.
Your homemade fried chicken leg quarters will be miles better than takeout. Serve with biscuits, coleslaw and pickles for a true Southern feast.
6. Chicken Salad with Leg Quarters
Chicken salad is a classic way to use up chicken that has been grilled or roasted. Using flavorful leg quarters makes for an amazing chicken salad. Salad tips:
-
Allow cooked quarters to cool before chopping/shredding to prevent mushy texture.
-
Keep simple with just mayo, salt, and pepper or get creative with grapes, pecans, celery, etc.
-
Chill before serving over greens, in a sandwich or wrapped in lettuce cups.
Turn leftover leg quarters into a protein-packed, customizable chicken salad perfect for lunches or light dinners.
7. Shredded Chicken Leg Quarters Tacos
Tacos are a great way to transform shredded leg quarters into an easy, crowd-pleasing meal. Top with your favorite taco fixings. Taco tips:
-
Braise seasoned leg quarters until fall-apart tender before shredding into bite-size pieces.
-
Keep shredded chicken moist with a little of the cooking liquid.
-
Set out taco bar style with warmed tortillas, salsa, cheese, lettuce, etc. and let guests build their own.
With bold Mexican flavors, these tacos will become a go-to way to use up leftover chicken leg quarters.
Enjoy the Versatility of Chicken Leg Quarters
Chicken leg quarters offer versatility, convenience and value. With so many possibilities from crispy roasted chicken dinners to hearty braises and tacos, ordinary chicken quarters transform into extraordinary meals.
Next time you spot family packs of leg quarters on sale at the market, stock up. Then explore the many delicious ways to cook with this flavorful, budget-friendly cut of chicken. With a little creativity in the kitchen, chicken leg quarters can really stretch your grocery budget while providing nourishing family meals.
What’s your favorite way to cook with chicken leg quarters? Share your top recipes and tips in the comments!
How to Oven-Bake Chicken Leg Quarters
Preheat the oven to 375℉ (190℃).
Making the Marinade
Combine Marinade Ingredients – Combine garlic, onion powder, thyme, parsley, paprika, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour in melted butter or oil and mix. Set aside. (Photo 1 & 2).
Prepare the Chicken – Wash chicken leg quarters and thoroughly dry with paper towels.
Marinate the Chicken: Put the chicken in a large bowl and season it with salt to taste. Then, add the garlic mixture and coat the chicken completely. Repeat with potato and vegetables. (Photos 3 & 4).
Allow marinating – Refrigerate until ready to cook. The chicken will keep for about 24 hours in the fridge.
Baking the Chicken Leg Quarters
Ready the Baking Pan – Line a baking pan with foil and insert a wire rack. Lightly coat the baking pan with non-stick spray. You can also bake it in a large 9×13 baking pan with potatoes next to it.
Load everything up – Arrange the chicken legs quarters in a single layer. Place potatoes and carrots underneath the chicken. The drippings from the chicken will slowly drip onto the vegetables, making them extra flavorful.
The Final Stretch – Bake in a preheated oven until cooked through and the skin is crispy, for about 45-60 minutes or until the meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reaches at least 165℉/74℃ when checked with an instant-read thermometer. (Chicken legs and thighs can handle a higher temperature than the breast, so don’t worry if it gets to 180℉/82℃. ).
Check on them – Rotate chicken legs quarters halfway through-roughly 25 minutes. If it starts to over-brown, cover it with aluminum foil.
Remove from Oven. Serve with potatoes and carrots. Enjoy!
More Homemade Chicken Recipes
Jamaican-Style Chicken – Spicy Jamaican food is one of my go-to comfort foods. Grilled chicken with a Jamaican-style marinade that has the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
Instant Pot Chicken – Super easy, spicy, and mouthwatering Instant Pot Chicken Curry warms the soul on a chilly day. Enjoy your evening while your Instant Pot does all the work.
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie – Nothing says Southern comfort like a homemade chicken pot pie. This hearty and tasty pie is filled with creamy chunks of diced chicken, carrots, and peas.
Peri-Peri Chicken – This mildly spicy and drool-worthy chicken dish boasts intense flavors from Peri-Peri Sauce, Creole Seasoning, lemon, and herbs. Fire up the grill or turn on the oven for this mouthwatering chicken recipe.
Cajun Chicken Alfredo – The perfect one-pot meal with pasta, creamy cheese sauce, and spicy chicken is so easy you’ll want it in your rotation.
The Best Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe You’ll Ever Make!!! You will be addicted!!!
FAQ
What to do with leftover chicken legs?
Fresh ideas for leftover chickenChicken & tzatziki wraps. Chicken, bacon & watercress baguettes. Easy coronation chicken. Mexican chicken & black bean wraps. Caesar pitta. Herby chicken & butter bean soup. Spiced black bean & chicken soup with kale. Chicken & sweetcorn soup.
Why are chicken quarters so cheap?
What meal can I cook with chicken legs?
Chicken leg recipesChicken legs with pesto, butter beans & kale. A star rating of 4. 1 out of 5. Chicken dopiaza. App-onlyCreamy garlic chicken & polenta. Chicken with roots & chickpeas. Crispy chicken with pancetta & butter beans. Chicken adobo. One-pot chicken chasseur. Confit chicken legs with potato hash & poached egg.
How to eat chicken leg quarters?
There are several ways to enjoy chicken leg quarters, which are made up of a drumstick, a thigh, and sometimes a piece of the backbone. They can be cooked whole, or the drumstick and thigh can be separated for different cooking methods.
How to cook chicken leg quarters for dinner?
Simple yet flavorful is the best way to cook up some chicken leg quarters for dinner. A fast and easy butter sauce with garlic, onion powder, and lemon pepper was fantastic. Those things should be in your cupboard right now, and you’re ready to make this! Use a paper towel to dry the chicken quarters and put them on a baking sheet.
What to do with leftover chicken leg quarters?
Chicken leg quarters have a lot of meat, so you’re almost always guaranteed to have leftovers. If you don’t want to take them with you for protein-packed lunches, chop up the leftover chicken and put it to use in a batch of chicken fajitas, chicken Caesar salads, or chicken soup.
Can you use spice mix on baked chicken leg quarters?
Baked chicken leg quarters boast robust flavor, crispy skin, and juicy meat. The savory-sweet spice mixture is warm and toasty, and it’s versatile enough to be used on all sorts of chicken cuts. Rubbing the spice mix in between the skin and meat really helps the spice mix penetrate the meat and not just flavor the skin.