How To Grill Chicken Leg Quarters On A Charcoal Grill

Grilling chicken leg quarters on a charcoal grill is a fantastic way to enjoy delicious, smoky-flavored chicken. The process is relatively simple, and with a few tips and tricks, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters every time. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to grill chicken leg quarters on a charcoal grill, ensuring juicy, flavorful results that will impress your family and friends.

Preparation

Before you start grilling, it’s essential to prepare the chicken leg quarters properly. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken leg quarters with your favorite seasoning blend. Whether it’s a simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder or a more complex spice rub, be sure to coat the chicken generously for maximum flavor.

2. Let the Chicken Rest: After seasoning, allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. This helps the meat cook more evenly on the grill.

Setting Up the Charcoal Grill

Now it's time to fire up the grill and get it ready for cooking.

1. Prepare the Charcoal: Fill a chimney starter with charcoal and light it. Let the charcoal burn until it’s covered with a thin layer of ash, indicating that it’s ready for cooking.

2. Arrange the Charcoal: Once the charcoal is ready, carefully pour it onto one side of the grill, creating a two-zone fire. This setup allows for both direct and indirect heat, giving you more control over the cooking process.

Grilling the Chicken Leg Quarters

With the grill set up, it's time to start cooking the chicken leg quarters.

1. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken leg quarters, skin side down, over the direct heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side to achieve a nice, crispy exterior.

2. Move to Indirect Heat: Once the chicken is seared, move it to the cooler side of the grill, away from the direct heat. This allows the chicken to cook through without burning on the outside.

3. Monitor the Temperature: Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook for 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the leg quarters. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), indicating that the chicken is safely cooked.

Rest and Serve

After the chicken leg quarters are cooked to perfection, it's essential to let them rest before serving.

1. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy and tender meat.

2. Serve and Enjoy: Once rested, serve the grilled chicken leg quarters with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, smoky meal with family and friends.

Grilling chicken leg quarters on a charcoal grill is a rewarding experience that yields mouthwatering results. With the right preparation and technique, you can master the art of grilling chicken leg quarters, becoming the grill master in your social circle. So fire up the charcoal grill, follow these steps, and savor the delectable flavors of perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters.