Grill Master’s Guide: How to Cook Chicken Leg Quarters [with Useful Tips and Stats]

Short answer how to cook chicken leg quarters on the grill:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with desired spices.
3. Place chicken on grill, skin side down.
4. Cook for 10-12 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10-12 minutes or until internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chicken Leg Quarters on the Grill

Grilling chicken leg quarters is one of those timeless summer traditions that never seems to go out of style. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family, there’s nothing quite like perfectly cooked chicken leg quarters hot off the grill.

To help you master this classic dish, we’ve put together a simple yet foolproof guide to grilling chicken leg quarters that will impress your guests and leave them begging for seconds.

Step 1: Prepping the Chicken Leg Quarters

Before starting your cooking process, it’s critical to prepare the chicken correctly. First, rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Remove any loose skin or excess fat using kitchen shears or a sharp knife; doing so leads to more even cooking by preventing flare-ups during grilling.

Next, generously season each side of the chicken quarter with salt and pepper (to taste) and set them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to rest at room temperature while you fire up your grill,.

Step 2: Get the Grill Ready

To achieve beautiful char marks on your legs quarters during cooking, be sure to get your grill good and hot before placing them on it. If you’re using charcoal grills, light briquettes according to package instructions or pour enough briquettes into two piles on opposite sides of the grill pit; then light till it gets white ash-colored glowing coal while making sure all vents are open.

If utilizing gas-fired grills, power up burners fully high for around 10-15 minutes until temperatures reach over 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit mark as indicated by an attached thermometer..

Lastly, use tongs ensure brush grates clean with great care by scrubbing thoroughly against any residue from prior cooks gone crisp sticks-on remnants .

Step 3: Grill Meat for Perfect Results

Once your heat source has stabilized, start grilling the chicken quarters. Place them on a grill pedestal or directly onto your grill using tongs, making sure to position them skin-side up first. Be mindful of flames and turn frequently throughout cooking to prevent burning (warmed-up chicken fire results from flames or uncontrollable gas flare-ups). If you prefer the skinless option, go ahead and cook right away with no need to turn over.

Grill the chicken leg quarters for 30-40 minutes in total, flipping every ten minutes, until cooked through and crispy brown on all sides. Ensure that meat tenderizes while remaining moist by utilizing a cooking thermometer (the reached safe minimum internal temperature is 165F).

Step 4: Serving Up Your Masterpiece

After removing your perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters from the heat source with a tong, place them on serving platters lined delicately with fragrant fresh herbs such as rosemary sprigs or thyme leaves before serving; this enhances flavors by adding an extra dimension of aroma into each bite.

Add A side-salad made of crisp greens or roasted veggies covered in olive oil, garlic sprinkle dressing for an added bonus flavor. Additionally, Grilled corn cob coated in butter and sprinkled salt can also be served too!

There you have it! Follow these easy instructions when making your next summer BBQ meal plan or after following any random craving for leisurely patio meals. You’ll impress family members with your grilled Chicken Leg Quarter dish done just like professionals!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cooking Chicken Leg Quarters on the Grill

Are you tired of the same old grilled chicken breast? Do you want to switch things up and try something new on the grill? Look no further than chicken leg quarters! These tasty cuts of meat are not only affordable, but they’re also versatile and easy to cook.

However, if you’re new to grilling chicken leg quarters, it’s understandable if you have some questions. Here are a few frequently asked questions about cooking chicken leg quarters on the grill, along with some witty and clever answers:

Q: How long do I cook chicken leg quarters on the grill?
A: Ah, the million-dollar question. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think – cooking time will depend on a number of factors, including how hot your grill is, the size of your chickens, and whether or not they’re bone-in. As a general rule of thumb though, plan for about 45 minutes total cooking time (turning occasionally) for bone-in thigh-quarters or drumsticks that weigh around 10 ounces each.

Q: Should I marinate my chicken before grilling?
A: If you’ve got time to spare (and some delicious marinade recipes up your sleeve), absolutely! Marinating helps infuse flavor into the meat while also tenderizing it. Just make sure not to marinate your meat for too long or use highly acidic marinades; otherwise, you’ll end up with mushy meat.

Q: How can I get crispy skin when grilling my chicken leg quarters?
A: Crispy skin is definitely desirable when it comes to grilled chicken – who wants soggy skin? To achieve this golden-brown goodness, start by patting your chicken dry before seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Next step is oiling up that bad boy – remember oil causes flames so be mindful of this step! Set them over high heat first to allow them to sear 5 mins per side then reduce the heat to medium-high and let them cook through, again turning occasionally.

Q: How do I know when my chicken leg quarters are done?
A: This is where a meat thermometer comes in handy. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F, so use your thermometer to take the temp at the thickest part of the meat near the bone. But wait-let it rest! After you’ve removed your chicken leg quarters from the grill, let them rest for at least five minutes before serving. This allows all those tasty juices within the meat to redistribute back into it, making every bite tender and flavorful.

In conclusion, cooking chicken leg quarters on the grill is an excellent way to add some variety to your grilling game while also saving some money. With proper care & attention even someone new to BBQing can master this cut of meat in no time. Now that we have addressed your most pressing queries- fire up that grill & get ready for a flavor explosion in every single bite!

5 Important Tips for Mastering Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

Grilled chicken is a staple of any summer barbecue, but too often home cooks end up with tough, dry chicken leg quarters that leave their guests underwhelmed. But fear not! With a few key tips and tricks, you can master the art of grilling juicy, flavorful chicken leg quarters that will have your guests begging for more.

1. Brining Is Key

The first step to perfect grilled chicken leg quarters is to brine them. This may sound intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple – just soak the chicken in a mixture of salt, sugar, and water overnight before grilling. This step is crucial because it adds moisture to the meat, resulting in juicy and tender chicken every time.

2. Don’t Overcook

Overcooking chicken leg quarters is a common mistake many home cooks make when grilling. To avoid this, use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). It’s also essential to let the chicken rest for five to ten minutes after cooking before cutting into it – this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

3. Seasoning Is Critical

Seasoning your grilled chicken leg quarters properly can be the difference between tasty and bland flavor profiles. For best results, marinate your chicken for at least an hour before grilling with spices such as paprika, garlic powder or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

4. Use High Heat

Grilled chicken leg quarters require high heat for optimal results. Try using charcoal instead of gas grill since charcoal generates higher heat levels than gas grills which gives you perfectly charred crispy skin while keeping warmth on the inside moist during cooking process.

5. Direct and Indirect Cooking Method

When cooking bone-in pieces over high heat use direct flame method by placing them directly over hot coals or flames until they become browned and crisp on outside layer.

Afterward move to indirect cooking zone by heating on medium heat to make sure the chicken leg quarters are fully cooked from within.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of grilling chicken leg quarters that are juicy, flavorful, and delicious every time. The next time you fire up the grill, give it a shot! Your taste buds will thank you.

Best Marinades and Rubs to Enhance Your Grilled Chicken Legs

There are few things that can beat the smoky flavor and tenderness of grilled chicken legs. If you’re a fan of this hearty classic, then you’re probably always on the hunt for ways to take your grilled chicken to the next level. One of the best ways to do that is by using marinades and rubs!

Marinades are mixtures of liquid ingredients, such as vinegar or soy sauce, combined with herbs and spices, which are used to add flavor and tenderize meat. On the other hand, rubs consist of dry ingredients like salt, sugar, spices, and herbs that create a crusty texture while locking in moisture when rubbed onto meat.

Here are some of the best marinades and rubs you can use to enhance your grilled chicken legs:

1. Lemon-Garlic Marinade

This simple marinade requires only a handful of ingredients but packs quite a punch in terms of flavor! Just combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic cloves, salt and pepper in a bowl or resealable bag. Let your chicken legs marinate for up to 24 hours before grilling.

2. Cajun Rub

If you love bold flavors with lots of heat, then this cajun-inspired rub is perfect for you! Combine paprika powder with cumin seeds, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne pepper into a bowl. Mix well before rubbing all over your chicken legs prior grilling.

3. Sweet Honey Barbeque Marinade

This classic favorite will surely be loved by everyone.. In a bowl mix together honey mustard sauce with tomato ketchup , smoked paprika powder along with Worcestershire sauce . Mix well before dipping/chucking in ur drumsticks allowing it sit for atleast 4 hours if not overnight after ensuring thorough application by covering each leg completely – Once marinated let your grill cook it low and slow though it sure takes time an dservices best when wrapped in foil for a bit while cooking to retain that tenderness.

4. Moroccan Spice

For something exotic, try this North African-inspired flavor combo. Mix coriander seeds, cinnamon powder, dried thyme with turmeric powder and ground cumin.After ensuring thorough rubbing and leave it overnight in the fridge once rubbed else minimum 3 hours for maximum flavours; then give it enough time on your grill with medium heat until browned and fully-cook.

5. Honey Mustard Rub

This sweet yet savory rub has all of the elements needed to create the perfect balance of flavors. Mix honey with mustard sauce , soy sauce and apple cider vinegar into thick paste like consistency before rubbing onto drumsticks thoroughly ensuring that each leg is evenly touched from all sides Cook till they have got a golden char before serving them hot!

In conclusion, by trying out these marinades and rubs you will realize how versatile chicken legs can be – one day it’s lemony-garlicy , the next day its spicy….It’s upto your imagination as far as these flavour-filled experiments can go. So get creative, mix and match ingredients,to satiate that crave!

Achieving Juicy and Flavorful Chicken Leg Quarters on the Grill

Grilling chicken leg quarters can be a bit tricky, as they tend to dry out easily, leaving you with tough and flavorless meat. However, fear not fellow foodies, because with a few simple tips and tricks, you can achieve juicy and flavorful chicken leg quarters on the grill every time.

First of all, it’s important to marinate your chicken for at least a few hours before grilling. This not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt and pepper is a great place to start. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices such as paprika or cumin for an extra kick.

Once your chicken has been marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place your chicken leg quarters on the grill skin side down first, as this will help the skin get crispy without drying out the meat.

Now here’s where things get interesting – add some smoke! Adding wood chips or chunks of hickory or mesquite will infuse your chicken with a delicious smoky flavor that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Simply soak your wood chips in water for about 30 minutes before grilling and then place them directly on the coals or in a smoker box if using a gas grill.

As you’re grilling your chicken leg quarters, keep an eye on them to prevent burning or overcooking. Make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly on all sides. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (not touching bone) to ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices inside to redistribute, resulting in even juicier and more flavorful chicken leg quarters.

In conclusion, achieving juicy and flavorful chicken leg quarters on the grill comes down to a few simple but effective tips. Marinate your chicken beforehand, add some smoke for extra flavor, and be vigilant while grilling to prevent drying out or burning. With these tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be a grill master in no time!

Safety Precautions When Cooking Chicken Leg Quarters on the Grill

Cooking chicken leg quarters on a grill is a popular and delicious way to prepare this cut of meat. However, as with any cooking method, there are important safety precautions that must be taken to ensure that your food is both flavorful and safe to eat. Here are some tips for safely grilling chicken leg quarters:

1. Use a meat thermometer – One of the most important safety precautions when grilling chicken leg quarters is to use a meat thermometer. You should cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help ensure that any harmful bacteria present in the meat has been eliminated.

2. Don’t cross-contaminate – Cross-contamination occurs when raw chicken comes into contact with other foods or surfaces that will come into contact with other foods. Always clean your hands, cutting boards, knives and other utensils thoroughly after touching raw chicken.

3. Marinate properly – Marinating your chicken can add flavor and tenderness to your meal, but make sure you marinate it in the refrigerator and follow safe handling practices by discarding any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken.

4. Keep a close eye on the flames – If you’re using charcoal or gas grill always keep an eye on the flames. Flames can get out of control quickly without proper supervision and increase the risk for burns or starting unwanted fires.

5. Keep cooled/frozen products cool/frozen- Make sure to thaw poultry in a controlled environment (e.g., refrigeration unit) to avoid pathogen growth from time(≤40°F) temperature abuse

By following these safety measures when cooking chicken leg quarters on the grill, you can enjoy a tasty meal without risking illness or injury!

Table with useful data:

Step Number	Instruction	Time	Temperature
1	Preheat grill to medium-high heat	N/A	350°F to 400°F
2	Rinse chicken leg quarters and pat dry with paper towels	N/A	N/A
3	Brush the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper and desired spices	N/A	N/A
4	Place the chicken on the grill skin-side up	15 minutes	350°F to 400°F
5	Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes	10-15 minutes	350°F to 400°F
6	Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F	N/A	165°F
7	Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving	N/A	N/A

Information from an expert

Grilling chicken leg quarters is a great way to enjoy juicy, flavorful meat on a warm summer evening. To achieve the best results, start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour in your chosen marinade – I like to use a combination of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the chicken on the grates skin side down. Cook for about 10-12 minutes before flipping and cooking for another 8-10 minutes or until fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving up perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters!

Historical fact:

According to colonial-era cookbooks, chicken leg quarters were often boiled or roasted in a fireplace, with grilling not becoming a popular cooking method until the 20th century.