Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering masterpiece with these incredibly juicy and golden-brown chicken quarters! Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary enthusiast, this foolproof recipe will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine cutting into a chicken quarter with perfectly seasoned, crispy skin that gives way to tender, succulent meat - and the best part? It's easier to make than you might think!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken quarters
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or use a sturdy roasting pan for easy cleanup.
- Remove chicken quarters from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to create a seasoning blend.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken quarters, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Use your hands to massage the oil into the skin.
- Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mix generously over both sides of the chicken quarters, making sure to season under the skin and in all crevices.
- Arrange the chicken quarters skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part.
- Check the chicken at the 45-minute mark. If the skin is browning too quickly, loosely cover with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Dry Skin = Crispy Skin: Pat the chicken quarters completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispy, golden skin!
- Season Generously: Don't be shy with your seasoning. Make sure to season under the skin and in all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
- Spacing is Key: Give each chicken quarter enough room on the baking sheet. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature. 165°F (74°C) is the magic number for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken.
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious.Pro tip: For extra crispy skin, you can briefly broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 140mg
