Bake quarter legs is a cooking method that involves baking chicken quarter legs in the oven until they are fully cooked, and the skin is crispy. This chicken cut includes both the thigh and drumstick portions and can be seasoned with various spices and herbs to create a delicious and flavorful meal.
Baking chicken quarter legs is a popular way to prepare this versatile chicken cut, and it can be paired with a variety of side dishes or used in salads or sandwiches.
Following a few simple steps and using the proper cooking techniques, you can create perfectly crispy and juicy chicken quarter legs that will impress you.
Chicken quarter legs, also known as chicken legs with thighs attached, are one of the chicken’s most flavorful and versatile parts. When baked correctly, they can be tender, juicy, and crispy all at the same time.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this guide will help you bake quarter legs that are perfectly cooked and packed with flavor.
The versatility of chicken quarter legs
Chicken quarter legs are a versatile and economical cut of chicken that can be baked, grilled, roasted, or fried. They consist of the thigh and drumstick portions of the chicken and are attached to the joint. Chicken quarter legs can be seasoned with various spices and herbs to create a flavor-packed and satisfying meal when baked. They can be served as the main course in salads or sandwiches. This guide will help you bake quarter legs that are juicy, crispy, and delicious.
Choosing the right chicken quarter legs
When choosing chicken quarter legs, look for fresh, plump, and moist pieces of chicken that have not been frozen or treated with preservatives. The skin should be unblemished and have a slightly yellow tint. If possible, buy chicken quarter legs that are organic, free-range, or antibiotic-free. These types of chicken are raised without the use of hormones, antibiotics, or chemicals and are generally healthier and tastier.
Preparing the chicken quarter legs
Before baking chicken quarter legs, cleaning and preparing them properly is essential. First, rinse the chicken quarter legs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Next, remove excess fat or skin from the chicken using kitchen shears or a sharp knife. This step will help reduce the overall fat content of the chicken and make it easier to season.
Seasoning and marinating options for chicken quarter legs
One of the best things about chicken quarter legs is that they can be seasoned in many ways. You can use simple seasoning blends like salt, pepper, and garlic powder or create more complex marinades using ingredients like lemon juice, honey, soy sauce, and herbs. Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl to create a basic marinade. Place the chicken quarter legs in a large zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
What are chicken quarter legs?
Chicken quarter legs are a cut of chicken that includes both the thigh and drumstick portions of the chicken. They are a flavorful and versatile chicken part that can be used in various recipes. Chicken quarter legs can be seasoned with various spices and herbs to create a flavor-packed and satisfying meal when baked.
Taste and texture of baked quarter legs
Baked chicken quarter legs have a rich, savory flavor and a crispy, salty, and slightly sweet skin. The meat is juicy and tender, with a firm and succulent texture. The skin is golden brown and crunchy when appropriately baked, while the meat remains moist and flavorful.
Benefits of eating chicken quarter legs
There are several benefits to eating chicken quarter legs. Firstly, they are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. They also contain several vitamins and minerals, including niacin, selenium, and phosphorus, essential for maintaining good health. Additionally, chicken quarter legs are a low-fat and low-calorie food that can be part of a healthy diet.
Health effects of eating chicken quarter legs
While chicken quarter legs are a healthy food choice, they contain some fat and cholesterol. Therefore, testing your intake of these nutrients is essential to maintain good health. Additionally, the skin of the chicken quarter legs can be high in sodium, so it’s best to remove it before eating.
Nutrition facts about chicken quarter legs
A 3-ounce (85-gram) serving of chicken quarter legs contains approximately:
- Calories: 140
- Protein: 17 grams
- Fat: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 milligrams
- Sodium: 70 milligrams
How to eat chicken quarter legs
Chicken quarter legs can be eaten on their own as the main course or paired with side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. They can also be used in salads or sandwiches for a quick and easy meal. When eating chicken quarter legs, removing the skin is important to reduce the overall fat and sodium content.
How to store chicken quarter legs
To store chicken quarter legs, place them in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan on keeping them longer, you can freeze them for up to six months. However, when thawing frozen chicken quarter legs, placing them in the refrigerator overnight is best to prevent bacterial growth.
Recipe #1: Baked Chicken Quarter Legs
Ingredients:
- Four chicken quarter legs
- One tablespoon of olive oil
- One teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken quarter legs.
- Place the chicken quarter legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe #2: Lemon Garlic Chicken Quarter Legs
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarter legs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken quarter legs in a large zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Place the chicken quarter legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe #3: BBQ Chicken Quarter Legs
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarter legs
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the sauce mixture all over the chicken quarter legs.
- Place the chicken quarter legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for baking chicken quarter legs
To bake chicken quarter legs, preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the chicken quarter legs on the baking sheet and place them in the oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked and the skin is golden brown and crispy. To achieve extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes of baking.
How to know when chicken quarter legs are fully cooked
To ensure that chicken quarter legs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. The temperature should read at least 165°F (74°C). Another way to check if the chicken is cooked is to pierce the thickest part of the chicken with a fork. If the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked. If the juices are pink, the chicken must cook for a few more minutes.
Serving suggestions for chicken quarter legs
Once your chicken quarter legs are fully cooked, you can serve them in various ways. For example, you can pair them with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also use the chicken in sandwiches or wraps for a quick and easy meal. Leftover chicken quarter legs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook quarter legs in the oven?
Baking quarter legs in the oven typically takes 30-40 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until they are fully cooked and the skin is crispy.
Is it better to bake chicken legs at 350 or 400?
It’s recommended to bake chicken legs at 400°F (200°C) for the best results, as it allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a crispy skin.
How long to bake legs at 350?
Baking chicken legs at 350°F (175°C) will take approximately 45-50 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken legs.
What temp should leg quarters be?
Chicken leg quarters should be cooked until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
How long to cook chicken drumsticks at 200 degrees Celsius?
Cooking chicken drumsticks at 200°C (400°F) will take approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken drumsticks.
What is the best temp for baking chicken legs?
The best temperature for baking chicken legs is 400°F (200°C), as it allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a crispy skin.
Why cook chicken thighs at 180?
Cooking chicken thighs at 180°F (82°C) ensures they are fully cooked and safe to eat, as any harmful bacteria will be destroyed at this temperature.
Is it better to bake chicken slow or fast?
It’s better to bake chicken at a moderate temperature for a more extended period of time, as it allows the chicken to cook evenly and retain its moisture.
Is 400 too high to bake chicken?
No, 400°F (200°C) is the recommended temperature for baking chicken, as it allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a crispy skin.
Can you cook chicken at 180 degrees Celsius?
Yes, you can cook chicken at 180°C (350°F), but it will take longer to cook than at a higher temperature.
Do you cook chicken at 180 or 200?
It’s recommended to cook chicken at 200°C (400°F) for the best results, but you can cook it at 180°C (350°F) if necessary.
How long to cook chicken thighs in the oven at 180 degrees?
Cooking chicken thighs at 180°C (350°F) will take approximately 45-50 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken thighs.
How long to cook leg quarters at 250?
Cooking chicken leg quarters at 250°F (120°C) will take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the chicken leg quarters.
Why are my baked chicken legs tough?
Baked chicken legs can become tough if they are overcooked or if the temperature is too high. It’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.
Should you bake chicken covered or uncovered?
It’s best to bake chicken uncovered, as it allows the chicken to develop a crispy skin. However, if the chicken is browning too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil halfway through the cooking time.
