Grill Master’s Secret Revealed: How To Gas Grill Chicken Leg Quarters To Perfection!

Grilling chicken leg quarters is an art form that requires a delicate balance of heat, seasoning, and technique. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you achieve juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters on your gas grill.

Choosing the Right Chicken Leg Quarters

Begin by selecting high-quality chicken leg quarters. Look for pieces that are plump, evenly sized, and have a pinkish-white color. Avoid any quarters with bruises or discoloration.

Seasoning the Chicken

Seasoning the chicken leg quarters is crucial for maximum flavor. Create a flavorful rub using your favorite spices and herbs. Common choices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. Rub the seasoning generously all over the chicken, ensuring it penetrates the meat.

Preparing the Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Clean the grill grates thoroughly to prevent sticking. If you have a two-burner grill, light only one burner and place the chicken leg quarters on the unlit side. This creates an indirect grilling zone that prevents burning while allowing the chicken to cook evenly.

Grilling the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken leg quarters on the indirect grilling zone. Close the grill lid and grill for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer. Rotate the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Basting the Chicken (Optional)

For extra flavor and juiciness, baste the chicken leg quarters every 15-20 minutes with a flavorful liquid. This could be a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs or a more elaborate sauce.

Checking for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken thigh without touching the bone. The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Resting the Chicken

Once the chicken leg quarters are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Enjoying Perfectly Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters

Serve the grilled chicken leg quarters with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters that you have mastered on your gas grill.

Tips for Success

• Use a marinade to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
• Grill the chicken over indirect heat to prevent burning.
• Rotate the chicken frequently to ensure even cooking.
• Baste the chicken regularly for extra flavor and juiciness.
• Check for doneness with a meat thermometer.
• Let the chicken rest before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

FAQ

Q: What is the best way to season chicken leg quarters?
A: Season the chicken with a flavorful rub using spices and herbs like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.

Q: How long should I grill chicken leg quarters?
A: Grill the chicken for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Q: Can I grill chicken leg quarters over direct heat?
A: Grilling over direct heat can cause the chicken to burn. It is best to grill over indirect heat to prevent burning.

Q: How can I make the chicken extra juicy?
A: Baste the chicken regularly with a flavorful liquid, such as a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.

Q: What is the best way to serve grilled chicken leg quarters?
A: Serve the chicken with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing salad.