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.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Chicken Quarters Recipe
• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Helpful Tips for Perfect Chicken Quarters Recipe
• Equipment For Chicken Quarters Recipe
• Dietary Benefits & Serving Suggestions
• Variations & Substitutions
• Storage
• Top Tip
• FAQ
• Related
• Pairing
• chicken quarters recipe

Ingredients

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

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)
2. Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels (this is crucial for achieving crispy skin)
3. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, and all dry seasonings
4. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top

Seasoning the Chicken

1. Place the chicken quarters on the prepared wire rack
2. Gently loosen the skin without removing it completely
3. Rub half of the seasoning mixture under the skin
4. Brush the remaining mixture all over the outside of the chicken quarters
5. Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes

Cooking

1. Place the baking sheet with chicken in the preheated oven
2. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
3. For extra-crispy skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning
4. 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

Share Your Chicken Quarters Recipe Success! 🍗

How did your Chicken Quarters Recipe turn out? Ready to savor something new? This recipe is sure to impress with its crispy, golden-brown skin, juicy meat, and that perfect blend of herbs and seasonings that makes every bite memorable. If you're a fan of economical, flavorful meat dishes and crispy chicken, be sure to try our Smoked Pork Loin Recipe next – another easy-to-make yet delicious treat!

Did you make this Chicken Quarters Recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Leave a star rating and share your thoughts in the comments. Did you try any creative twists, like using a special spice rub or adding vegetables to roast alongside? Maybe you experimented with different marinades or created your own signature basting sauce? Your feedback not only helps others but also contributes to our growing community of home cooks.

Don't forget to share a photo of your culinary creation! We love seeing that perfectly crispy skin and those beautifully roasted quarters. Everyone's chicken quarters have their own special touch, and we can't wait to see yours!

Related

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

Pairing

These are my favorite dishes to serve with chicken quarters recipe

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!