When it comes to backyard barbecues, knowing how to cook chicken leg quarters on a gas grill can make you the envy of your friends and family. This recipe promises juicy, flavorful chicken leg quarters that are perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to ensure your grilled chicken leg quarters are a hit.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Equipment:
Preparation
Before you start grilling, it’s essential to prepare your ingredients and equipment. Start by marinating the chicken leg quarters. In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine the flavors. Add the chicken leg quarters to the bag, seal, and massage the marinade into the chicken. Place the bag in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Grilling the Chicken Leg Quarters
Step 1: Preheat the Gas Grill
To achieve perfectly cooked chicken leg quarters, it’s crucial to preheat your gas grill. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and develops a deliciously crispy skin.
Step 2: Clean and Oil the Grill Grates
Before placing the chicken on the grill, clean the grill grates using a grill brush. Cleaning the grates ensures that your chicken won’t stick and will have those coveted grill marks. Once cleaned, oil the grates by dipping a folded paper towel in vegetable oil and using tongs to rub it over the grill grates.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken leg quarters on the preheated grill, skin side down. Close the lid and grill for 10-15 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken leg quarters and continue to grill with the lid closed for another 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Rest the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicy and flavorful chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled chicken leg quarters are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Consider pairing them with grilled vegetables, a light salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, you can also add a side of homemade coleslaw or a refreshing fruit salad.
For more grilling recipes and tips, check out thisFood Network Guide.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
While grilling chicken leg quarters sounds straightforward, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to avoid these pitfalls:
- Not Preheating the Grill: Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking.
- Skipping the Marinade: The marinade adds flavor and tenderness, so don’t skip this step.
- Not Using a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to elevate your grilled chicken leg quarters:
- Keep the Skin On: The skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor. Keep it on while grilling.
- Use Indirect Heat: After browning the skin, move the chicken to indirect heat to finish cooking. This prevents flare-ups and charring.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Leave enough space between the chicken pieces to allow for even cooking.
Conclusion
Learning how to cook chicken leg quarters on a gas grill can transform your backyard barbecue game. With the right preparation and grilling techniques, you can achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken leg quarters every time. Whether you’re a novice or a grilling expert, this guide provides all the information you need to master this delicious dish.
More Recipes and Resources
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