Flavorful Oven-Baked Chicken Leg Quarters: Crispy, Juicy, and Easy to Make

Prepare your taste buds for an irresistible culinary journey with our Flavorful Oven-Baked Chicken Leg Quarters recipe. Brace yourself for a symphony of savory flavors that will leave your mouth watering in anticipation. With the perfect blend of aromatic spices and a secret marinade, this dish promises juicy, tender chicken with a crispy, golden-brown skin that's nothing short of perfection.

Sazon Magic: One of the secret ingredients in this recipe is "Sazon," a popular seasoning mix used in many Latin American dishes. Sazon typically contains a combination of ingredients like coriander, cumin, achiote (annatto), and garlic, among others. It adds a burst of color and flavor to the chicken, enhancing its overall appeal. Sazon is known for its versatility and is a staple in Latin cuisine, contributing to the unique and delicious taste of this dish.

The Broil for Crispy Skin Trick: The recipe's technique of switching the oven to broil during the last few minutes of cooking is a key step to achieving that coveted crispy skin on the chicken leg quarters. Broiling briefly at high heat helps to crisp up the skin, adding a delightful crunch to contrast with the juicy and flavorful meat beneath. It's a pro tip for achieving restaurant-quality results right at home, making this recipe both delicious and visually appealing.

FAQs

1. What is the cooking time for oven-baked chicken leg quarters?

The chicken leg quarters take approximately 40-45 minutes to bake at 375°F (190°C) until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I marinate chicken leg quarters overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator will enhance the flavor. Just be sure to cover the chicken and store it properly.

3. What is the best seasoning for baked chicken leg quarters?

The best seasoning for baked chicken leg quarters includes a combination of adobo seasoning, sazon goya, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried rosemary, thyme, cumin, and vinegar.

4. How can I make the skin crispy on baked chicken leg quarters?

To make the skin crispy, ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning, and bake it at the right temperature (375°F). You can also broil it for the last few minutes of baking for extra crispness.

5. What sides go well with oven-baked chicken leg quarters?

Oven-baked chicken leg quarters pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, salad, or a side of bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of leg quarters?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time to 30-35 minutes, as thighs cook faster than leg quarters.

7. How do I know when the chicken leg quarters are fully cooked?

Chicken leg quarters are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

8. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter. Boneless chicken usually takes about 25-30 minutes to cook at 375°F.

9. Can I use a different type of vinegar for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, although red wine vinegar gives the best flavor for this recipe.

10. Can I bake the chicken leg quarters on a rack?

Yes, using a rack helps circulate air around the chicken, making the skin even crispier. If you don’t have a rack, baking directly on a parchment-lined sheet works well too.

11. Can I freeze leftover oven-baked chicken leg quarters?

Yes, you can freeze leftover chicken leg quarters. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

12. How long should I rest the chicken after baking?

Let the baked chicken leg quarters rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.

13. What can I substitute for adobo seasoning in this recipe?

If you don’t have adobo seasoning, you can substitute it with a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.

14. Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook chicken leg quarters in an air fryer. Cook at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

15. What is the nutrition for one serving of baked chicken leg quarters?

One serving of oven-baked chicken leg quarters has approximately 305 calories, 27g of protein, 20g of fat, and 3g of carbohydrates.

Make it

Flavorful Oven-Baked Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe

Ingredients:

4 chicken leg quarters
1/2 tbsp adobo seasoning
1 packet of sazon goya
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tbsp dried parsley flakes
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp cumin
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together adobo seasoning, sazon goya, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried parsley flakes, dried rosemary, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and cumin.
Season the Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken leg quarters, ensuring they are well coated.
Add Olive Oil and Vinegar: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the seasoned chicken. Gently massage the chicken to distribute the oil, vinegar, and spices evenly.
Let it Marinate (Optional): If you have time, marinate the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to deepen.
Arrange in Baking Dish: Place the chicken leg quarters in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is browned and crispy.
Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
Serve: Serve your flavorful baked chicken leg quarters with your choice of side dishes. You can drizzle any pan drippings over the chicken for added flavor.

Cooking Time:

Preparation: 10 minutes
Marination (optional): 30 minutes to 1 hour
Cooking: 40-45 minutes
Total: 1 hour 30 minutes (with marination)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving - 1 Chicken Leg Quarter):

Calories: 305
Protein: 27g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Sodium: 520mg

Conclusion:

This flavorful oven-baked chicken leg quarters recipe offers the perfect balance of savory spices and crispy skin. It’s easy to prepare and packed with delicious, bold flavors. Pair it with your favorite side dishes for a satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Enjoy!