Looking for a foolproof chicken quarters recipe that delivers crispy skin and juicy meat every time? This oven-baked chicken leg quarters recipe combines simple seasonings with proper cooking techniques to create a memorable main dish that's perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you'll master this classic comfort food that's both economical and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Quarters Recipe
Chicken leg quarters are one of the most flavorful and budget-friendly cuts of chicken available. The combination of dark meat from the thigh and drumstick ensures a moist, tender result that's nearly impossible to overcook. This recipe takes advantage of the natural benefits of chicken quarters while adding layers of flavor through careful seasoning and a foolproof cooking method.
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Ingredients
For the main dish:
- 4 chicken leg quarters (about 3-4 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 lemon, quartered (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels (this is crucial for achieving crispy skin)
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and all dry seasonings
- Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top
Seasoning the Chicken
- Place the chicken quarters on the prepared wire rack
- Gently loosen the skin without removing it completely
- Rub half of the seasoning mixture under the skin
- Brush the remaining mixture all over the outside of the chicken quarters
- Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes
Cooking
- Place the baking sheet with chicken in the preheated oven
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- For extra-crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving
Helpful Tips for Perfect Chicken Quarters Recipe
- Bringing the chicken to room temperature before cooking ensures even cooking
- Don't skip patting the chicken dry – moisture is the enemy of crispy skin
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness without overcooking
- Position the chicken quarters so they're not touching each other on the rack
- Baste with pan juices halfway through cooking for extra flavor
Equipment For Chicken Quarters Recipe
- Large baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Small mixing bowl
- Pastry brush or basting brush
Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
This chicken quarters recipe is naturally:
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
- Gluten-free
- High in protein
- Rich in essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins
Serve your chicken quarters with:
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Green salad
- Rice pilaf
- Steamed broccoli
Variations & Substitutions
- BBQ Style: Replace the herb seasoning with your favorite BBQ rub
- Lemon-Herb: Add extra lemon zest and fresh herbs to the seasoning mix
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend
- Mediterranean: Use oregano, lemon, and garlic as primary seasonings
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken quarters in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Cooked chicken quarters can be frozen for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through to maintain crispy skin
Top Tip
For the crispiest skin possible, let your chicken quarters air-dry in the refrigerator, uncovered, for 2-4 hours before cooking. This extra step removes surface moisture and results in restaurant-quality crispy skin.
FAQ
Chicken quarters typically take 45-55 minutes at 400°F, but always verify doneness with a meat thermometer reading 165°F at the thickest part.
Keep the skin on during cooking as it helps maintain moisture and adds flavor. You can remove it before eating if preferred.
While possible, it's not recommended. Thaw completely in the refrigerator for best results and even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding bone) to verify it reads 165°F (74°C).
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Pairing
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chicken quarters recipe
Equipment
- Large baking sheet or roasting pan
- Wire rack that fits inside baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Paper Towels
- Pastry brush or basting brush
- Sharp knife (for optional trimming)
- Kitchen tongs
- Cutting board
Ingredients
4 chicken leg quarters (about 3-4 pounds total)
- Fresh or thawed if frozen
- Look for quarters similar in size
- Pat dry with paper towels before using
2 tablespoons olive oil
- Use good quality extra virgin olive oil
- Can substitute with avocado oil
2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Unsalted preferred
- Should be fully melted but not hot
3 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh garlic strongly recommended
- About 1 tablespoon minced
- Can substitute with 1 teaspoon garlic powder if needed
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels (this is crucial for achieving crispy skin)
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and all dry seasonings
- Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top
Seasoning the Chicken
- Place the chicken quarters on the prepared wire rack
- Gently loosen the skin without removing it completely
- Rub half of the seasoning mixture under the skin
- Brush the remaining mixture all over the outside of the chicken quarters
- Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes
Cooking
- Place the baking sheet with chicken in the preheated oven
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- For extra-crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving
Notes
- Choose chicken quarters of similar size to ensure even cooking
- Allow chicken to come to room temperature before cooking (30 minutes)
- Pat chicken completely dry before seasoning for crispier skin
- Don't skip loosening the skin and seasoning underneath
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
- Let chicken rest after cooking to retain juices
Nutrition
this chicken quarters recipe is a simple and delicious way to make a flavorful meal everyone will enjoy. If you’re looking for more ideas, check out our Easy Chicken Casserole Recipe or Easy Chicken Broth Recipe. These recipes are just as easy and packed with amazing taste!
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