Chicken Quarters Recipe: The Best Juicy & Crispy Method!
This chicken quarters recipe is the perfect way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with crispy skin. Whether baked, grilled, or pan-fried, this dish is packed with savory seasonings and is easy to prepare. Ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings, this recipe guarantees tender, delicious chicken every time. Pair it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika smoked or sweet
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional for spice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top for better air circulation.
- Prepare the chicken:Pat the chicken quarters dry with paper towels to ensure crispier skin.
- Season the chicken:In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Rub the chicken quarters with olive oil and lemon juice, then coat them evenly with the spice mix.
- Arrange on the baking sheet:Place the chicken quarters skin-side up on the wire rack to allow air circulation for even cooking.
- Bake to perfection:Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 175-185°F (80-85°C). For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
- Rest and serve:Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite side dishes!
Notes
- Marination Tip: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken quarters for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Grilling Option: Grill over medium-high heat (375-400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, then flip and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.