Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters with Garlic-Herb Seasoning Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 87 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters are juicy and flavorful with crispy, golden skin and a simple garlic-herb seasoning. This easy, affordable recipe makes a perfect family dinner that highlights tender dark meat with a crispy crust, seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 4 chicken leg quarters

Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to crisp the skin and cook the chicken evenly.
  2. Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken leg quarters very dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy, golden skin.
  3. Prepare the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined to create a flavorful rub.
  4. Apply the Seasoning: Rub the seasoning mixture all over each chicken leg quarter, making sure to coat underneath the skin where possible to maximize flavor penetration.
  5. Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned chicken leg quarters skin-side up on a baking sheet or in a baking dish, ensuring they are spaced out to prevent overcrowding and allow even cooking.
  6. Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 50 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken pieces. Monitor cooking to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C); for extra tender and juicy dark meat, aim for 175–185°F (79–85°C).
  7. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat when served.

Notes

  • Drying the skin thoroughly is essential for a crispy finish.
  • Add potatoes, carrots, or onions to the baking dish to create a complete one-pan meal.
  • Brush the chicken with BBQ sauce during the last 5–10 minutes of baking for a tasty glazed variation.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking dish to allow heat to circulate evenly and crisp the skin.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/baked-chicken-leg-quarters-with-garlic-herb-seasoning-recipe/