Ingredients:
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Place the chicken leg quarters in a large bowl or a zip-top bag.
3. Season the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken leg quarters, making sure to get it under the skin if possible.
4. Bake:
- Place the chicken leg quarters on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, skin side up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
5. Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor if desired.
Tips:
- Crispy Skin: To ensure extra crispy skin, you can broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Marinate: For more flavor, you can marinate the chicken leg quarters in the seasoning mixture for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Variations:
- Grilled: For grilled leg quarters, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Slow Cooker: For a slow-cooked version, place the seasoned chicken leg quarters in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken leg quarters, whether baked, grilled, or slow-cooked!