Chicken leg quarters

Chicken Leg Quarters Recipes

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Chicken Leg Quarters Recipes: Delicious and Budget-Friendly Meals

Chicken leg quarters are an excellent option when you’re looking for budget-friendly, flavorful cuts of meat. Whether roasted, grilled, or braised, these juicy cuts offer versatility and a satisfying taste that works in various recipes. In this post, we’ll explore several delicious chicken leg quarter recipes that can be easily prepared for a hearty meal any day of the week.

Why Choose Chicken Leg Quarters?

Before diving into the recipes, let’s discuss why chicken leg quarters are worth considering:

  1. Cost-effective: Chicken leg quarters are typically cheaper than other cuts of chicken, making them ideal for budget-conscious cooks.
  2. Flavorful: The combination of dark meat from the thigh and drumstick adds a depth of flavor that white meat can sometimes lack.
  3. Juicy and Tender: When cooked properly, chicken leg quarters stay moist and juicy, thanks to the higher fat content of dark meat.
  4. Versatile: They can be grilled, roasted, braised, or slow-cooked, offering endless options for different flavors and cooking methods.

Let’s explore some amazing chicken leg quarters recipes that will make the most out of this flavorful cut.

1. Oven-Roasted Chicken Leg Quarters with Garlic and Herbs

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken leg quarters, making sure to get it under the skin for maximum flavor.
  4. Roast the chicken: Place the chicken on a baking sheet and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Serve: Garnish with lemon slices and serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Why This Recipe Works:

The combination of garlic, herbs, and paprika creates a savory, aromatic dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. The chicken comes out with crispy skin and juicy meat that’s packed with flavor.

2. Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters with BBQ Sauce

Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters with BBQ Sauc

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken leg quarters with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Add BBQ sauce: During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, flipping and basting as needed to create a caramelized, sticky glaze.
  5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob for a classic BBQ meal.

Why This Recipe Works:

Grilling the chicken leg quarters brings out their natural smokiness, while the BBQ sauce adds a tangy, sweet, and sticky finish. It’s a perfect summertime meal or weekend dinner option.

3. Slow Cooker Chicken Leg Quarters with Potatoes and Carrots

Slow Cooker Chicken Leg Quarters with Potatoes and Carrots

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 lb potatoes, cut into chunks
  • 4 carrots, peeled and cut into pieces
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Place the potatoes, carrots, and onions in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Season the chicken: Rub the chicken leg quarters with olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
  4. Cook: Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
  5. Serve: Plate the chicken with the vegetables, and spoon some of the broth over the top for extra flavor.

Why This Recipe Works:

Using a slow cooker allows the chicken leg quarters to become incredibly tender and flavorful. The vegetables absorb the rich chicken juices, making this a comforting, all-in-one meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

4. Crispy Baked Chicken Leg Quarters with Dijon Mustard Glaze

Crispy Baked Chicken Leg Quarters with Dijon Mustard Glaze

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat the chicken: Brush the mustard glaze all over the chicken leg quarters.
  4. Bake: Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with a side of green beans or a fresh salad.

Why This Recipe Works:

The Dijon mustard glaze gives the chicken a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy skin. The high baking temperature ensures the chicken becomes golden and crunchy, while the meat stays juicy.

5. Spicy Braised Chicken Leg Quarters with Tomatoes and Chickpeas

Spicy Braised Chicken Leg Quarters with Tomatoes and Chickpeas

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and sear on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
  2. Add vegetables: Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the onions and garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened.
  3. Braise the chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, along with diced tomatoes, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer.
  4. Cook: Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
  5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with rice or couscous.

Why This Recipe Works:

The combination of tomatoes, chickpeas, and spices creates a warm, hearty meal with a touch of heat. Braising the chicken allows the flavors to meld together while keeping the meat moist and tender.

Conclusion

Chicken leg quarters are a versatile and affordable cut of meat that can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. Whether you prefer roasting, grilling, slow cooking, or braising, these recipes showcase just how flavorful and satisfying chicken leg quarters can be. Give one of these recipes a try, and enjoy a tasty, hearty meal that’s easy on the budget!

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