Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy and flavorful dark meat
Crispy grilled skin with smoky flavor
Perfect for barbecues and cookouts
Easy to season and customize
Budget-friendly and satisfying
Great for feeding a crowd

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken leg quarters
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Italian seasoning
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice
Optional barbecue sauce
Fresh parsley optional

Directions

Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, and all seasonings.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or longer for more flavor.
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill.
Grill the chicken slowly, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
Continue cooking until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Brush with barbecue sauce during the final minutes of cooking if desired.
Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest briefly before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Use Cajun seasoning for spicy grilled chicken.
Add honey for a sweet and smoky glaze.
Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Marinate with yogurt for extra tenderness.
Add hot sauce for extra heat.
Use a dry rub instead of a marinade for a stronger crust.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or microwave until warmed through. The chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What are chicken leg quarters?

They include both the drumstick and thigh attached together.

How do I keep grilled chicken juicy?

Cook over medium heat and avoid overcooking.

What temperature should grilled chicken reach?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Can I use boneless chicken instead?

Yes, but cooking times will be shorter.

Should I grill skin-side down first?

Yes, this helps crisp the skin and adds grill marks.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix.

What side dishes pair well with grilled chicken?

Corn, coleslaw, potato salad, rice, or grilled vegetables pair well.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes, they can be baked in the oven until fully cooked.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, though overnight adds more flavor.

Can I use barbecue sauce?

Yes, brush it on during the final minutes of grilling.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are a flavorful and satisfying meal with smoky grilled flavor, crispy skin, and juicy meat. Easy to prepare and perfect for cookouts or family dinners, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy tender grilled chicken packed with savory seasoning.

Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

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Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are juicy, smoky, and packed with savory flavor with crispy grilled skin and tender dark meat. This easy grilled chicken recipe is perfect for backyard cookouts, family dinners, or weekend barbecues.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Grill
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken leg quarters.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate longer for more flavor.
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill.
Grill the chicken slowly for about 35 to 40 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
Continue cooking until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Brush the chicken with barbecue sauce during the final few minutes of grilling if desired.
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for several minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use charcoal grilling or add wood chips to a gas grill.
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor and tenderness.
Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper can be added for a spicy version.
Serve with coleslaw, grilled corn, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken leg quarter
Calories: 420 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 165 mg