What To Know
- Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of grilling leg quarters to perfection.
- For more even cooking and a less intense sear, you can move the leg quarters to the indirect heat zone of your grill after the initial searing.
- Simmer the leftover leg quarters in a pot of broth with vegetables for a hearty and flavorful soup.
Grilling leg quarters is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and juicy meal. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the process of grilling leg quarters to perfection. From selecting the right cut to mastering the grilling technique, we’ll cover everything you need to know to impress your taste buds and your guests.
The Allure of Leg Quarters
Leg quarters, also known as chicken quarters, are a budget-friendly and versatile cut of chicken. They offer a generous amount of meat, including the thigh, drumstick, and sometimes a portion of the back. This combination of meat ensures a succulent and flavorful experience.
Choosing the Right Leg Quarters
The first step in grilling leg quarters is selecting the right pieces. Here’s what to look for:
- Freshness: Choose leg quarters that are firm to the touch, with a slightly pink color. Avoid any quarters with a strong odor or discoloration.
- Size: Select leg quarters that are a good size for your grill and your desired serving size.
- Skin: Look for leg quarters with intact skin, as it helps to retain moisture and flavor during grilling.
Prepping the Leg Quarters
Before you fire up the grill, take some time to prep the leg quarters for optimal grilling results.
- Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the leg quarters under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This will ensure even cooking and prevent splattering.
- Seasoning: Season the leg quarters generously with your favorite grill seasoning. Popular options include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs.
- Marinate (Optional): For added flavor and moisture, you can marinate the leg quarters in a simple marinade of your choice. A mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs works well.
Firing Up the Grill
Now it’s time to get your grill ready for the main event.
- Preheat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). You can use gas or charcoal, depending on your preference.
- Clean: Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grilling Time!
With the grill preheated and the leg quarters prepped, it’s time to start grilling.
- Direct Heat: Place the leg quarters directly over the heat source. Grill for about 15-20 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Indirect Heat (Optional): For more even cooking and a less intense sear, you can move the leg quarters to the indirect heat zone of your grill after the initial searing. Continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Checking for Doneness
The best way to ensure your leg quarters are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, the leg quarters are safe to eat.
Resting and Serving
Once the leg quarters are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meal.
Taking It Up a Notch: Flavor Variations
While simple seasoning is delicious, you can elevate your grilled leg quarters with creative flavor variations. Here are a few ideas:
- Citrus Burst: Marinate the leg quarters in a mixture of orange or lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like thyme and rosemary.
- Spicy Kick: Add a touch of heat with a blend of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Sweet and Smoky: Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder for a sweet and smoky flavor profile.
Beyond the Grill: Leftover Leg Quarter Magic
Leftover leg quarters can be transformed into delicious meals. Here are a few ideas:
- Chicken Salad: Shred the leg quarters and mix them with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and your favorite seasonings.
- Chicken Tacos: Use the shredded leg quarters as fillings for tacos, along with your favorite toppings.
- Chicken Soup: Simmer the leftover leg quarters in a pot of broth with vegetables for a hearty and flavorful soup.
A Culinary Adventure Awaits: Your Grilled Leg Quarter Journey Starts Here
Grilling leg quarters is a simple yet rewarding culinary experience. With this comprehensive guide, you’re equipped to create delicious and satisfying meals that will leave you craving for more.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I grill leg quarters on a gas grill?
A: Absolutely! Gas grills work perfectly for grilling leg quarters. Simply preheat the grill to medium-high heat and follow the grilling instructions outlined above.
Q: How long do I grill leg quarters on each side?
A: The grilling time will vary depending on the size of the leg quarters and the heat of your grill. As a general guideline, grill for 15-20 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Q: What are some good side dishes for grilled leg quarters?
A: Grilled leg quarters pair well with a variety of side dishes, including grilled vegetables (like corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers), potato salad, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Q: Can I freeze leg quarters before grilling?
A: Yes, you can freeze leg quarters for later use. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
