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Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

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These Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are juicy, smoky, and full of flavor. Seasoned with a simple dry rub or marinated for extra taste, they are grilled to crispy, golden perfection over direct and indirect heat. Perfect for backyard BBQs, weeknight dinners, or meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters (thigh & drumstick attached)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Dry Rub:

  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme

For the Optional Marinade:

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • ¼ cup lemon juice (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp honey or brown sugar

 

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken:

  • Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
  • If using the marinade, mix all ingredients in a bowl, place the chicken in a zip-top bag, and marinate for 1-4 hours in the fridge.
  • If skipping the marinade, brush the chicken with olive oil and coat evenly with the dry rub.

2. Preheat the Grill:

  • For gas grills: Preheat one side to medium-high heat (400°F) and leave the other side on low.
  • For charcoal grills: Arrange hot coals on one side for indirect cooking.

3. Sear the Chicken (Direct Heat):

  • Place the chicken skin-side down over direct heat and sear for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.
  • Flip and sear the other side for 5 minutes.

4. Move to Indirect Heat & Cook:

  • Move the chicken to the cooler side of the grill.
  • Close the lid and cook for 30-40 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 175-185°F.

5. Rest & Serve:

 

  • Remove from the grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  • Serve with BBQ sauce, chimichurri, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Notes

  • Crispier skin tip: Let the chicken sit uncovered in the fridge for 1 hour before grilling to dry out the skin.
  • Want it saucy? Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling.
  • Leftovers? Shred the meat for tacos, salads, or sandwiches!

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/grilled-chicken-leg-quarters/