BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

These BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to summer cookouts. With their juicy flavor and crispy skin, they are bound to be a hit at your next gathering. This budget-friendly recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for both novice cooks and experienced grillers. The combination of BBQ seasoning and sauce ensures a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Using chicken leg quarters makes this recipe economical without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps allow you to focus on enjoying the grilling process rather than complicated techniques.
• Flavorful Results: The perfect balance of BBQ seasoning and sauce creates a deliciously smoky and sweet taste.
• Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight meals or as the star of your next backyard BBQ; it’s suitable for various occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are sure to impress family and friends with their appealing presentation and taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters easy and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Gas grill
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Spray bottle

Importance of Each Tool

• Gas grill: Provides even heat and allows for indirect grilling, which is essential for cooking chicken leg quarters thoroughly.
• Basting brush: Perfect for applying sauces evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees that your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees F, preventing undercooking.

Ingredients

These easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are a budget friendly chicken recipe topped with your favorite BBQ spice rub and sauce.

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken leg quarters

For the Seasoning

• 2 – 3 tablespoons BBQ seasoning (low sugar)

For Basting

• 1/2 cup apple juice
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

How to Make BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

Follow these simple steps to create delicious BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters that will delight your taste buds.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Remove all visible fat from the chicken quarters.
2. Rub them generously with the BBQ seasoning, ensuring an even coating.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Heat your gas grill to 400 degrees F.
2. If using a three-burner grill, turn off the center burner to utilize indirect heat.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Place the seasoned chicken in the center of the grill.
2. Cover the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes.
3. Spray or baste the chicken with a mixture of apple juice and 1/2 cup water.
4. Turn the chicken after each basting and repeat every 10-15 minutes until fully cooked (about 50 minutes total), ensuring an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce

1. Baste both sides of the chicken with barbecue sauce.
2. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the skin becomes crispy.
3. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these delectable BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters at your next meal!

How to Serve BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

Serving BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw complement the smoky BBQ taste perfectly.

Add Starchy Sides

• Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter makes a sweet addition that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
• Baked Potatoes: Serve with sour cream and chives for a hearty side that fills up any meal.

Offer Dipping Sauces

• Extra BBQ Sauce: A small bowl of BBQ sauce allows guests to add more flavor as they like.
• Honey Mustard Dip: This tangy dip can provide a nice contrast to the savory chicken.

Include Grilled Vegetables

• Mixed Grilled Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, and onions grilled alongside the chicken can enhance the meal’s visual appeal and add healthy options.

How to Perfect BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

To achieve the best results when grilling chicken leg quarters, follow these essential tips.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure accurate cooking by checking that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate in apple juice or your favorite spices enhances its taste and tenderness.
• Preheat Your Grill: Achieving a consistent temperature helps to prevent flare-ups and ensures even cooking.
• Baste Regularly: Keep the meat moist and flavorful by basting with apple juice or BBQ sauce during cooking.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices for a more succulent bite.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

Complement your BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters with these delightful side dishes that enhance flavor and texture.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter adds a crunchy contrast that’s perfect for soaking up sauces.
2. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can provide a cooling effect against the warm, spicy chicken.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings freshness and color to your plate while being easy to prepare on the grill.
4. Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad with vegetables offers a nutritious side that pairs well with the rich flavors of BBQ chicken.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit, providing comfort alongside your grilled dish.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the smoky flavor of grilled chicken beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for a perfect result.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to properly season your chicken can lead to bland flavor. Be generous with the BBQ spice rub for maximum taste.
• Using direct heat – Cooking chicken leg quarters over direct heat can cause them to burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Always use indirect heat for more even cooking.
• Neglecting to monitor temperature – Not checking the internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F.
• Basting too early – Applying BBQ sauce too soon can lead to charring. Wait until the chicken is nearly cooked before basting for the best results.
• Forgetting about resting time – Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can let juices escape. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

• Wrap each leg quarter tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water and cover, cooking for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I need to grill BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters?

Grill your chicken leg quarters for about 50 minutes total, turning every 10-15 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Can I use different types of seasoning for my BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spice blends or marinades based on your taste preferences.

What should I serve with BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters?

These delicious quarters pair well with coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I ensure my BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters stay juicy?

Using indirect heat and basting with apple juice during cooking helps keep the meat moist and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. You can customize them with various spices and side dishes to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy deliciously grilled chicken at home!

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BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BBQ Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters are an irresistible dish that’s perfect for any gathering or family dinner. These chicken leg quarters are marinated in a delicious blend of BBQ seasoning and basting sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination of smoky and sweet flavors. With their juicy texture and crispy skin, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next cookout. This budget-friendly recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned grillers alike. Enjoy these flavorful chicken leg quarters with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 4 chicken leg quarters
• 2 – 3 tablespoons low-sugar BBQ seasoning
• 1/2 cup apple juice
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce

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Instructions

1. Remove visible fat from the chicken leg quarters and rub them generously with BBQ seasoning.
2. Preheat the gas grill to 400 degrees F, using indirect heat if applicable.
3. Place the seasoned chicken on the grill, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes.
4. Baste with a mixture of apple juice and water every 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (approximately 50 minutes total).
5. Baste both sides with barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 5 minutes until crispy.
6. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken leg quarter (220g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 530mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 150mg