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Oven baked chicken leg quarters with crispy golden brown skin, juicy tender meat, and roasted flavor on a wooden cutting board – easy homemade dinner recipe.

How to Bake Chicken Leg Quarters – Juicy and Crispy Every Time

This easy recipe for baked chicken leg quarters makes juicy, flavorful dark meat with perfectly crispy skin. Budget-friendly and simple to prepare, it’s a family favorite that works for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 330 kcal

Equipment

  • Rimmed baking sheet (sheet pan)
  • Wire rack (optional, for crispier skin)
  • Aluminum foil or parchment paper
  • Paper towels (to dry the chicken)
  • Small mixing bowl (for seasoning blend)

Ingredients
  

  • 4 chicken leg quarters
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika or smoked paprika for a smokey flavor.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the skin crisps up while the inside stays juicy.
  • Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This is the secret to crispier skin! Place them on a cutting board or tray.
  • Rub the chicken with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle on your seasoning mix. Make sure to rub it in well, covering both the skin and underneath the skin.
  • Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if you have one—this helps air circulate and crisps the skin even more.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F (80°C) when checked with a meat thermometer at the thickest part of the thigh. Check at 40 minutes, and add time from there.
    Pro tip: If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, turn the oven to broil for the last 3 minutes, keeping a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
  • Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked in.
  • If your chicken leg quarters are particularly large, they may take closer to 55–60 minutes. Always rely on a thermometer rather than just the clock—it’s the best way to ensure perfectly cooked chicken.

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 1 chicken leg quarter)

  • Calories: ~330
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on the size of your chicken quarters and how much oil/butter you use.
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