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September 20, 2024
If you’re a fan of juicy and flavorful chicken leg quarters, then grilling is a great way to cook them. Grilling chicken leg quarters not only gives them a delicious smoky flavor, but it also helps to retain their moisture, resulting in tender and succulent meat. However, it’s important to know how long to cook them on the grill to ensure they are cooked thoroughly and safely.
On average, it takes about 35-45 minutes to cook chicken leg quarters on the grill. However, the cooking time can vary depending on factors such as the size of the leg quarters, the heat of the grill, and personal preferences for doneness. It’s crucial to have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for chicken to be considered safe to eat. It’s recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure they are fully cooked.
To achieve perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters, it’s essential to follow a few steps. Firstly, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the cooking grates to prevent sticking. Season the chicken leg quarters with your favorite spices or marinade for added flavor. Place the leg quarters on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Next, flip the leg quarters and continue cooking for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). It’s important to avoid flare-ups by keeping a close eye on the grill, and moving the leg quarters to a cooler part of the grill if necessary. Once cooked, remove the leg quarters from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Grilling chicken leg quarters can be a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. By knowing how long to cook them on the grill and following a few simple steps, you can easily achieve tender and succulent chicken leg quarters that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Preparing chicken leg quarters for the grill
Grilling chicken leg quarters can result in delicious and flavorful meals. To ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection, it is important to properly prepare the leg quarters before placing them on the grill.
Step 1: Marinating the chicken
Marinating the chicken leg quarters before grilling can help enhance the flavors and keep the meat juicy. You can use your favorite marinade or create a homemade one. Some popular marinade options include teriyaki, barbecue sauce, or a simple combination of olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Place the leg quarters in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheating the grill
Before grilling the chicken leg quarters, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This allows for a higher cooking temperature, which helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken while ensuring the inside cooks evenly.
If you are using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until it turns gray and ashy. Spread the coals evenly across the charcoal grate. For a gas grill, turn on the burners and close the lid, allowing the grill to heat up for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Seasoning the chicken
Before placing the chicken leg quarters on the grill, season them with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs of your choice. This adds extra flavor to the chicken and enhances the overall taste.
Gently pat the leg quarters dry with paper towels to remove excess marinade, then season both sides of the chicken with the desired seasonings. Be sure to season evenly and adjust based on personal preference.
Step 4: Grilling the chicken
Once the grill is heated and the chicken is seasoned, it’s time to start grilling. Place the chicken leg quarters on the grill, skin-side down, and close the lid. Allow the chicken to cook for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
While grilling, avoid constantly flipping the chicken as this can prevent it from developing a crispy skin and even cooking. Instead, allow each side to cook thoroughly before flipping.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy chicken.
By following these steps, you can prepare flavorful and perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters that will be enjoyed by all. Happy grilling!
Brining the chicken leg quarters
Brining is a great way to enhance the flavor and juiciness of chicken leg quarters. It involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution, which helps to break down the proteins and lock in moisture.
To brine the chicken leg quarters, start by combining 4 cups of water with 1/4 cup of kosher salt and 1/4 cup of sugar in a large bowl. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
Place the chicken leg quarters in a resealable plastic bag and pour the brine mixture over them. Seal the bag, making sure to remove any excess air, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but no more than 4 hours. The longer you brine the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
Once the brining time is up, remove the chicken leg quarters from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
Brining is an optional step, but it can make a big difference in the texture and taste of your grilled chicken leg quarters. It’s worth the extra effort for a truly delicious and juicy meal.
Marinating the chicken leg quarters
Marinating the chicken leg quarters is an essential step in grilling them to perfection. By marinating, you can add flavor and tenderness to the meat, making it more delicious and enjoyable to eat.
Choosing the marinade
When selecting a marinade for your chicken leg quarters, you have plenty of options to choose from. You can opt for premade marinades available in the market or make your own marinade using a combination of ingredients such as oil, vinegar, citrus juices, soy sauce, herbs, and spices.
Marinating process
To marinate the chicken leg quarters, start by placing them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. You can also use a brush or your hands to massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure it reaches all parts of the meat.
Next, seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate the chicken leg quarters for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. The longer you marinate, the more pronounced the flavor will be.
Remember to turn the chicken leg quarters occasionally during the marinating process to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Before grilling the marinated chicken leg quarters, make sure to discard any leftover marinade since it may contain bacteria from the raw chicken. Always use fresh marinade for basting during the grilling process.
Preheating the grill for cooking
Before cooking your chicken leg quarters on the grill, it is important to preheat the grill to ensure even cooking and to help maintain the juices and flavors of the meat.
To preheat the grill:
- Start by cleaning the grill grates with a wire brush to remove any leftover debris from previous cookouts.
- Once the grates are clean, close the lid of the grill and turn the burners to high heat.
- Allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes to reach a temperature of around 400-450°F (200-230°C). This will ensure that the chicken leg quarters cook properly and develop a nice sear on the outside.
Preheating the grill is an essential step in achieving deliciously grilled chicken leg quarters. It helps to create the perfect cooking environment and ensures that your food is cooked to perfection.
Cooking the chicken leg quarters on the grill
Grilling chicken leg quarters is a delicious way to cook this flavorful cut of meat. With its dark meat and juicy texture, a properly grilled chicken leg quarter can be a standout dish at any barbecue or outdoor gathering. Here are some tips and guidelines on how long to cook chicken leg quarters on the grill to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
Preparation
Before you start grilling the chicken leg quarters, it is important to properly prepare them. Begin by patting the leg quarters dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the skin become crispy during grilling. Season the leg quarters with your desired spices or marinade. Common options include a simple salt and pepper seasoning, or a marinade made from a combination of herbs, garlic, and oil. The choice of seasoning is entirely up to you and your taste preferences.
Grilling Time
The exact time it takes to grill chicken leg quarters will vary depending on several factors such as the thickness of the meat and the temperature of the grill. As a general guideline, it is recommended to grill chicken leg quarters for about 25-30 minutes per side over medium heat. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is safe to eat when the thermometer reads 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
While cooking, remember to flip the leg quarters occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent them from burning. Baste the leg quarters with any marinade or sauce you may be using to add extra flavor and moisture. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent it from becoming dry or overcooked.
Once the chicken leg quarters are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.
Grilled chicken leg quarters make a delicious main course on their own, or they can be served alongside a variety of sides such as grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Q&A
What is the recommended cooking time for chicken leg quarters on the grill?
The recommended cooking time for chicken leg quarters on the grill is approximately 25-30 minutes.
How long should I grill chicken leg quarters for if I want them to be well done?
If you want well-done chicken leg quarters, you should grill them for about 35-40 minutes.
What temperature should the grill be set at when cooking chicken leg quarters?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C), when cooking chicken leg quarters.
Should I flip the chicken leg quarters while grilling?
Yes, you should flip the chicken leg quarters once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken leg quarters before grilling?
No, marinating is not necessary, but it can enhance the flavor of the chicken leg quarters. If you choose to marinate, it is recommended to do so for at least 30 minutes before grilling.