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When it comes to grilling, quarter chicken is a versatile choice that can take on a variety of flavors. You'll find that each of these four recipes brings something unique to the table, whether you're in the mood for something zesty or a bit spicy. The right marinade can truly elevate your dish. Let's explore these delicious options that promise to impress at your next gathering or quiet dinner at home.
Key Takeaways
- Lemon Herb Grilled Quarter Chicken features a citrusy marinade that enhances flavor and moisture, perfect for summer grilling.
- Spicy BBQ Grilled Quarter Chicken offers a zesty twist with a tangy marinade, ideal for barbecues and pairing with coleslaw.
- Honey Mustard Glazed Quarter Chicken combines sweet and tangy flavors, ensuring a moist and tender finish while grilling.
- Mediterranean Marinated Quarter Chicken utilizes a flavorful soak to enhance taste, allowing for customization with various herbs and spices.
- Each recipe emphasizes simple preparation and pairs well with fresh sides like salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Lemon Herb Grilled Quarter Chicken
Lemon Herb Grilled Quarter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the bright flavors of citrus with aromatic herbs, resulting in tender, juicy chicken that's perfect for any barbecue or family gathering.
The marinade infuses the chicken with a revitalizing and zesty taste, while the grilling process adds a smoky char that enhances its natural flavors. This recipe isn't only simple to prepare but also visually appealing and delicious, making it a favorite among chicken lovers.
To make Lemon Herb Grilled Quarter Chicken, you'll need to start by marinating the chicken quarters, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. The combination of lemon juice, fresh herbs, and olive oil creates a flavorful base that helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarters (legs and thighs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken quarters in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Place the chicken quarters skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an even more intense flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat.
Additionally, you can use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfect doneness without overcooking the chicken. If you want to add a smoky flavor, try using wood chips in your grill or cooking over charcoal.
Enjoy your zesty and herb-infused Lemon Herb Grilled Quarter Chicken with your favorite sides for a delicious meal!
Spicy BBQ Grilled Quarter Chicken
Grilled Quarter Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The spicy BBQ marinade adds a kick to the tender and juicy chicken, making it a perfect meal for summer barbecues or cozy dinners at home. This recipe is simple to follow, and with a few ingredients, you'll have a mouthwatering dish that will impress your guests.
In addition to being a crowd-pleaser, this Spicy BBQ Grilled Quarter Chicken is versatile. You can pair it with a variety of sides, such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or grilled vegetables. The marinade not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also helps to keep it moist while grilling. So fire up your grill and get ready for a tasty meal!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarters (legs and thighs)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, olive oil, hot sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined to create a flavorful marinade.
- Place the chicken quarters in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider basting the chicken with additional barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. This will create a sticky, caramelized glaze on the chicken that enhances its flavor.
Also, let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making sure each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Honey Mustard Glazed Quarter Chicken
Honey Mustard Glazed Quarter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy glaze. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner. The honey mustard glaze not only adds a rich flavor but also helps to keep the chicken moist and tender while grilling. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, this dish is simple to prepare and is sure to impress your guests.
To make this Honey Mustard Glazed Quarter Chicken, you'll need some basic ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The balance of sweet honey and zesty mustard creates a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarters (legs and thighs)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)
To start, prepare the honey mustard glaze by whisking together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
Place the chicken quarters in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the glaze over the chicken, making certain it's evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the chicken skin-side down for about 10-15 minutes, then flip and continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
When cooking Honey Mustard Glazed Quarter Chicken, it's important to monitor the grill temperature closely to prevent flare-ups, as the honey in the glaze can cause the chicken to caramelize quickly.
You can also reserve some of the marinade before adding the chicken to use as a basting sauce while grilling, but make certain that it doesn't come into contact with the raw chicken.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the chicken before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite sides!
Mediterranean Marinated Quarter Chicken
The key to achieving the best flavor lies in the marinade. Letting the chicken soak in the marinade for several hours, or even overnight, will enhance the taste and guarantee that every bite is a delightful experience.
This recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your taste preferences—feel free to add more spices or herbs according to your liking. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this grilled quarter chicken that's brimming with Mediterranean charm.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken quarters (legs and thighs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Cooking Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until well blended.
Add the chicken quarters to the bowl, making certain that they're fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally, let them marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off before placing the chicken on the grill.
Cook the chicken for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips:
For even more flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
If you're short on time, marinating the chicken for just an hour can still yield delicious results, but the longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
Always verify that the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer, and let it rest before serving to keep the juices intact. Enjoy your Mediterranean feast!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Sides Pair Well With Grilled Quarter Chicken?
Did you know 70% of people prefer pairing grilled chicken with vibrant sides? You'll love serving grilled quarter chicken with fresh coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or garlic mashed potatoes for a balanced, flavorful meal that satisfies everyone.
Can I Use Skinless Chicken for These Recipes?
You can definitely use skinless chicken for these recipes. Just remember, without the skin, you might need to adjust the seasoning or cooking time to guarantee it stays juicy and flavorful while grilling.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
Studies show marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes can enhance flavor considerably. You should aim for 1 to 4 hours, but if you're short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak can make a difference.
What Is the Best Grilling Temperature for Quarter Chicken?
When grilling quarter chicken, aim for a temperature around 350°F to 375°F. This range guarantees even cooking while achieving that perfect crispy skin. Always check internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
How Can I Store Leftovers From Grilled Chicken?
Like a treasure hunt, you'll want to store your grilled chicken leftovers carefully. Wrap them tightly in foil or a container, refrigerate within two hours, and enjoy them within three to four days for best taste.
