How To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters On The Grill

Grilling chicken leg quarters is a fantastic way to enjoy the juicy, flavorful meat that comes with this cut. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving some delicious grilled chicken, this guide will walk you through the steps to cook perfect, tender chicken leg quarters on the grill.

Choose the Right Ingredients

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken leg quarters
Marinade or dry rub of your choice
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Prepare The Chicken

Start by rinsing the Chicken leg quarters under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that any unwanted residue is removed. Season the chicken with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.

Marinate or Dry Rub

Marinating the chicken leg quarters or applying a dry rub adds depth of flavor. Choose your favorite marinade or make a simple homemade one using ingredients like olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. Massage the marinade or dry rub into the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 1-2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor absorption.

Preheat the Grill

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure even cooking and those perfect grill marks on your chicken leg quarters.

Grill the Chicken Leg Quarters

Once the grill is hot and ready, brush the grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken leg quarters on the grill, skin side down, and close the lid. Cook for about 12-15 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

During the grilling process, it’s important to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning or undercooking the chicken. Remember, patience is key to achieving that juicy and perfectly cooked chicken leg quarters.

Let it Rest

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

Serve and Enjoy

Now that your chicken leg quarters are perfectly grilled, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Pair them with your favorite side dishes like grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. This mouthwatering meal will quickly become a favorite among friends and family.

Clean up the Grill

After enjoying your delicious meal, don’t forget to clean your grill. Brush the grates to remove any remaining food particles and grease for a fresh start next time.

Wipe the grates with a damp cloth or brush
Remove any debris from the grill
Allow the grill to cool down before covering it

Now that you have mastered the art of cooking chicken leg quarters on the grill, you can confidently impress your guests with your grilling skills. Enjoy the smoky flavors and tender meat that result from this cooking technique. Happy grilling!

Share your tips and techniques for grilling chicken leg quarters in the Cooking Techniques forum and join the discussion on “How To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters On The Grill”.

FAQ:

Can I marinate chicken leg quarters before grilling?

Absolutely! Marinating chicken leg quarters is a great way to enhance the flavor and tenderness. You can marinate them in a variety of ingredients such as herbs, spices, citrus juices, yogurt, or even a combination of these. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for a more intense flavor.

How long should I grill chicken leg quarters?

Cooking time can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken leg quarters and the temperature of your grill. Generally, it takes about 25-30 minutes per side to fully cook chicken leg quarters on a medium-high heat grill. However, to ensure they are cooked thoroughly, it’s recommended to use an instant-read meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to be considered safe to eat.

Should I use direct or indirect heat when grilling chicken leg quarters?

For grilling chicken leg quarters, it’s best to use a combination of direct and indirect heat. Start by searing the chicken over direct heat for a few minutes on each side to develop a nice crispy exterior. Then, move the chicken to the cooler side of the grill or reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking using indirect heat until the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature.

Can I grill frozen chicken leg quarters?

Grilling frozen chicken leg quarters is not recommended. For best results, it’s always advisable to thaw the chicken completely before grilling. Thawing allows for more even cooking and helps prevent the exterior from becoming overly charred while the inside remains undercooked. If you need to defrost them quickly, you can use the defrost function on your microwave or place them sealed in a plastic bag in cold water until thawed.

How do I prevent chicken leg quarters from sticking to the grill?

To prevent chicken leg quarters from sticking to the grill, it is important to make sure the grill grates are clean, preheated, and properly oiled. Before placing the chicken on the grill, use a grill brush to clean the grates and remove any residue. Then, using tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil, gently oil the grates before adding the chicken. This will create a non-stick surface and help ensure the chicken releases easily when flipping.

Can I use a gas grill or a charcoal grill for cooking chicken leg quarters?

Yes, you can use either a gas grill or a charcoal grill to cook chicken leg quarters. Gas grills offer precise temperature control and are generally easier to ignite and control the heat. On the other hand, charcoal grills provide a smokier flavor and can reach higher temperatures. Whichever grill you choose, make sure it is well-maintained and operating properly to ensure even heat distribution and safe cooking.

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How To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters On The Grill