Chicken Leg Quarter

The chicken leg quarter, a versatile and flavourful cut, consists of the drumstick and thigh portions of the chicken. It's a popular choice in cuisines around the world, beloved for its juicy meat and rich flavour.

In the United States, chicken leg quarters are a staple on backyard grills and in Southern-style cooking, often seasoned with barbecue rubs or marinated in tangy sauces before being grilled or baked.

In Latin America, particularly in countries like Mexico and Brazil, chicken leg quarters are used in a variety of dishes, such as pollo asado (grilled chicken) or frango assado (roasted chicken). These dishes often feature bold spices and vibrant flavours.

In Asian cuisine, chicken leg quarters are commonly used in dishes like soy-glazed chicken or teriyaki chicken, where they are marinated in savoury sauces and then grilled, roasted, or stir-fried.

Throughout Europe, chicken leg quarters are used in classic dishes like coq au vin in France or chicken cacciatore in Italy, where they're braised in rich sauces with vegetables and herbs.

No matter the country or cuisine, chicken leg quarters are a versatile and delicious cut that can be prepared in a multitude of ways to suit a variety of tastes and culinary traditions.

How to Cook a Chicken Leg Quarter

Chicken leg quarters offer a succulent and flavourful meat that can be cooked in various ways to suit different preferences and culinary styles.

One popular method is roasting, which involves seasoning the leg quarters with herbs, spices, and marinades before placing them in the oven until they are golden brown and cooked through. Roasting allows the skin to become crispy while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Grilling is another fantastic option for chicken leg quarters, particularly during the warmer months. Marinating the quarters beforehand infuses them with flavour, and grilling over medium heat results in charred, smoky perfection.

Braising is ideal for those seeking a more tender and fall-off-the-bone texture. This method involves searing the leg quarters to lock in flavour, then simmering them in a flavourful liquid like broth or wine until the meat is tender and fully cooked.

For a quick and easy option, chicken leg quarters can be pan-fried or sautéed. This method results in crispy skin and juicy meat, perfect for serving with a side of vegetables or rice.

Regardless of the cooking method chosen, chicken leg quarters are versatile and delicious, offering a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes and cuisines.

What Can You Make with a Chicken Leg Quarter?

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters (United States): Marinated chicken leg quarters are baked in the oven until tender and juicy, often seasoned with herbs, garlic, and lemon. This dish is a classic American comfort food.

Barbecue Chicken (United States): Chicken leg quarters are grilled or smoked and basted with barbecue sauce, resulting in flavourful and succulent barbecue chicken. This dish is a staple at backyard cookouts and barbecues across the United States.

Chicken Adobo (Philippines): A popular Filipino dish where chicken leg quarters are simmered in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns until tender. Chicken adobo is served with rice and is a beloved comfort food in the Philippines.

Chicken Curry (India): Chicken leg quarters are stewed in a fragrant curry sauce made from spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with onions, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Chicken curry is a staple dish in Indian cuisine, enjoyed with rice or bread.

Pollo Asado (Mexico): Chicken leg quarters are marinated in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, and spices, then grilled or roasted until golden and crispy. Pollo asado is a popular dish in Mexican cuisine, often served with rice, beans, and tortillas.

Chicken Paprikash (Hungary): Chicken leg quarters are simmered in a creamy paprika sauce made from onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and sour cream. Chicken paprikash is a traditional Hungarian dish, typically served with dumplings or noodles.

Tandoori Chicken (India): Chicken leg quarters are marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper, then roasted in a tandoor oven. Tandoori chicken is a popular Indian dish, known for its vibrant red colour and smoky flavour.

Come visit our store today to discover a delightful selection of locally sourced meats, all freshly procured from Ontario farms! Whether you're craving succulent chicken leg quarters for a Southern-style barbecue or tender beef short ribs for a hearty stew, we've got you covered. Support local farmers and indulge in the freshest cuts Ontario has to offer. Don't miss out—stop by our store now and pick up your favourite meats!