Perfectly baked chicken leg quarters with crispy skin on a plate

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters are a great choice for an easy, tasty meal. They are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner. This dish combines chicken with wholesome vegetables, making it both hearty and satisfying. Plus, it is simple to prepare and requires minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

How to Make Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 1.5 lbs new potatoes (halved)
  • 3 small carrots (peeled and thinly sliced into rounds)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup water (or no-salt chicken broth)
  • 2 tbsp grainy Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
  2. In a 9×13 oven-safe casserole dish, toss the halved potatoes and sliced carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Place the chicken leg quarters on top of the vegetables. It’s okay if they are touching.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients: water (or chicken broth), grainy Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, garlic powder, dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  5. Pour the marinade over the chicken and vegetables.
  6. Roast in the oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer. Check the chicken after 30 minutes; if it is browning too much, cover it with aluminum foil.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

Serve the baked chicken leg quarters hot, straight from the oven. You can plate the chicken with the roasted potatoes and carrots for a complete meal. Drizzle some extra sauce from the dish over the chicken for added flavor. Add a simple green salad or some steamed vegetables on the side for a fresh touch.

How to Store Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

If you have leftovers, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave.

Tips to Make Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

  • For even flavor, let the chicken marinate in the sauce for a couple of hours or overnight before baking.
  • Use bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters for more flavor and moisture.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition and taste.
  • Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Variation

You can change the flavor of the marinade by adding herbs like rosemary or oregano, or by using different types of mustard. You also can swap out the maple syrup for honey for a different sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of leg quarters?
Yes, chicken thighs work well with this recipe. Adjust the cooking time if needed.

What side dishes go well with baked chicken leg quarters?
This dish pairs nicely with rice, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to cook.