how long to bake chicken leg quarters
The baking time for chicken leg quarters depends on the oven temperature, the size of the chicken pieces, and whether they are bone-in or boneless. Here are some general guidelines for baking chicken leg quarters:
Bone-in Chicken Leg Quarters:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 35-40 minutes for small leg quarters (about 1-1.5 pounds).
- Bake for 45-50 minutes for medium leg quarters (about 1.5-2.5 pounds).
- Bake for 55-60 minutes for large leg quarters (about 2.5-3.5 pounds).
Boneless Chicken Leg Quarters:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes for small leg quarters (about 1-1.5 pounds).
- Bake for 30-35 minutes for medium leg quarters (about 1.5-2.5 pounds).
- Bake for 40-45 minutes for large leg quarters (about 2.5-3.5 pounds).
Tips:
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before baking to help the skin crisp up.
- Season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices before baking.
- If you want a crisper skin, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remember, these are just general guidelines, and the actual baking time may vary depending on your oven and the specific chicken pieces you are using. Always check the chicken for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of the meat. If it’s cooked through and the juices run clear, it’s done!
