How long does it take to bake chicken leg quarters?

At 400°F, they take about 45 minutes. Always check the internal temperature for doneness.

Can I grill chicken leg quarters instead of baking?

Yes. Grill over medium-high heat for 35–40 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.

Do I need to marinate them?

Not required, but marinating for 2–4 hours in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs adds extra flavor.

What is the best cooking method for chicken legs?

The best cooking method depends on your flavor and texture preference : Baking/Roasting : Easiest method for crispy skin and juicy meat. Grilling : Adds smoky, charred flavor perfect for summer cookouts. Smoking : Slow-cooks the chicken, infusing deep smoky richness. Braised/Stewed : Results in fall-off-the-bone tenderness, though skin won’t be crispy.

Do you bake leg quarters covered or uncovered?

For crispy skin , bake chicken leg quarters uncovered . Covering them traps steam, which softens the skin and prevents browning. Uncovered → Crispy, golden-brown skin. Covered (foil) → Juicier but softer skin (can be useful for braising or if you add sauce).

Can you overcook chicken leg quarters?

Best practice: Use a meat thermometer . Chicken leg quarters are perfect at 175°F (80°C) in the thickest part.

Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe-Juicy, Flavorful & Easy to Cook

No More Mistakes With Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe

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A juicy, crispy, and flavorful chicken leg quarters recipe that can be baked, grilled, or smoked.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1h 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Method: Baking / Grilling / Smoking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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4 chicken leg quarters
2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
Rub with olive oil and season generously with spices.
Place on a baking sheet lined with foil or a rack.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C).
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra crispy skin.
Rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate chicken leg quarters for at least 2–4 hours before baking. You can also grill or smoke them for a smoky twist.

Nutrition

Calories: 320

Find it online: https://www.recipescommunity.com/chicken-leg-quarters-recipe/