How to Grill Chicken Leg Quarters on Gas Grill: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you wondering how to grill chicken leg quarters on a gas grill to perfection?

If so, this guide is specially written for you.

As an outdoor enthusiast and seasoned griller, eager to share my secrets with you.

With every word of this article, you'll feel like you're gathered around a campfire, the scent of smoky, sizzling chicken leg quarters wafting through the air.

Expect nothing less than a detailed, easy-to-follow guide that will leave you eager to fire up that grill.

Let's embark on this exciting culinary adventure together, because nothing beats the thrill of cooking your own perfect, juicy, grilled chicken leg quarters on a gas grill!

Selecting the Ingredients

Before we dive into the grilling process, let's talk about ingredients. The right selection can turn your grilled chicken leg quarters from good to great.

Selecting Your Chicken Leg Quarters

You might wonder, “It's just chicken, right? What's there to select?” Well, my friends, quality matters. Always opt for fresh, organic chicken quarters if possible. They are less likely to contain harmful additives and will provide the best taste. When you're at the store, look for chicken with a pinkish hue and firm to touch. If it's slimy or has an off smell, pass it up for a better batch.

Marinade Selection

Your marinade can make or break your grilled chicken leg quarters. The right marinade will seep into the chicken, tenderizing it, and infusing it with exciting flavors.

For a classic touch, you might opt for a simple garlic, lemon, and herb marinade. It brings a lovely balance of tang, sweetness, and herby freshness. If you fancy a spicy kick, a marinade with chipotle peppers, honey, and lime could be your go-to. It adds a smoky heat that'll make your chicken leg quarters the talk of the town.

Remember, the key to a fantastic marinade is balance. Whether you prefer spicy, sweet, tangy, or savory, make sure no single flavor overpowers the others. The best marinades are those that complement the chicken's natural flavors, not mask them.

Preparation Before Grilling Chicken Leg Quarters on Gas Grill

Before we hit the heat, there's a bit of prep work involved to get our chicken leg quarters and gas grill ready for the grilling process. This preparation step is key to achieving those flavorsome, juicy, and beautifully charred chicken quarters that'll leave your guests asking for more.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating is an art in itself, and when done right, it's a game-changer for your chicken quarters. Start by washing your chicken thoroughly, then pat dry with a kitchen towel. Make small cuts on the chicken to allow the marinade to penetrate better.

Pour your chosen marinade over the chicken leg quarters and make sure every piece is thoroughly coated. It's best to marinate in a non-reactive dish, like glass or ceramic, to prevent any chemical reaction with the acidic ingredients in the marinade.

Now, what about the ideal marination time? While it's tempting to throw the chicken on the grill as soon as possible, patience pays off here. For the best flavor infusion, let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours, although overnight is ideal. Just remember to keep it refrigerated during this time.

Prepping the Gas Grill

Setting up your gas grill properly not only ensures the best grilling outcome but also keeps you safe. Begin by checking your gas tank and connections to avoid leaks. Make sure your grill is on a flat surface, away from any flammable materials.

Cleaning your grill grates is crucial. Not only does it prevent your chicken from sticking, but it also prevents flare-ups caused by excess grease. Once your grill is clean, preheat it on high for about 10-15 minutes to reach the optimal grilling temperature.

Learn more: How to Grill Pork Tenderloin

How to Grill Chicken Leg Quarters on Gas Grill

Now that our ingredients and grill are ready, it's time to get grilling!

Positioning the Chicken on the Grill

Understanding your grill's heat zones is essential. Gas grills typically have hotter and cooler zones, and knowing where to place your chicken quarters can greatly affect the outcome. Start by placing your chicken on the hotter part of the grill, skin-side down. This will help you achieve those gorgeous grill marks and crispy skin. After a few minutes, you'll move them to the cooler zone for the rest of the grilling process.

Grilling the Chicken Leg Quarters

Begin by grilling the chicken quarters over high heat for about 5 minutes. Once the skin is nicely seared, move them to the cooler zone, lower the heat, and close the grill lid.

Now, maintaining and adjusting grill temperature is critical. You'll want to aim for a steady 350-375°F to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without burning.

As for timing, chicken leg quarters typically take about 30-45 minutes to grill, depending on their size. Remember to turn them every 10 minutes for even cooking, and baste with your marinade or some BBQ sauce for extra flavor and moisture.

Finally, use a meat thermometer to check if your chicken is done. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F. Once you reach this temperature, remove your chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and then dig in!

Read more: Grill Chicken Leg Quarters on Charcoal Grill

Post-Grilling Steps

You've grilled up some enticing chicken leg quarters, and the aroma wafting off the grill is simply irresistible. But hold on! There are a few steps we need to undertake after grilling to ensure our chicken is succulent, safe to eat, and served at its best.

Resting and Testing the Chicken

Just like a hard day's work, your chicken quarters need some rest after their grilling ordeal. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making every bite juicy and flavorful. Let your grilled chicken rest for about 10 minutes before you start carving or serving.

Now, how do we know our chicken is properly cooked? Trust in the magic of a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. A reading of 165°F is your golden ticket to safe and well-cooked chicken. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part and make sure the juices run clear and the meat is not pink.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your perfectly grilled chicken leg quarters, presentation matters. Arrange them on a platter, garnish with some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and maybe even some lemon slices for that burst of color and freshness.

Accompany your chicken with some delicious side dishes. A classic coleslaw, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad make for great options. And let's not forget about the sauces! BBQ sauce, hot sauce, or a homemade garlic aioli can add another dimension of flavor to your grilled chicken.

Learn more: How to Smoke Beef Ribs on a Charcoal Grill

Expert Advice and Hints

Now that we've covered the basics, let's delve into some professional wisdom to elevate your grilling game.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Rushing the marination process and overcooking are two common pitfalls. Letting the chicken marinade for ample time and using a meat thermometer can prevent these. Also, resist the temptation to frequently flip the chicken on the grill. This disrupts the grilling process and may result in uneven cooking.

Insider Tips from Professional Grillers

An insider tip from the grilling community is to brine your chicken before marinating. A simple solution of salt and water can make your chicken even juicier. Also, maintaining a clean grill will prevent unwanted flare-ups and ensure an evenly heated surface.

Adjusting the Recipe for Different Flavors

Feel free to experiment with the marinade to suit your taste buds. You can add some chili for heat, honey for sweetness, or try using different herbs and spices. The beauty of grilling is that it's more of an art than an exact science, and the possibilities are limitless.

In short, grilling chicken leg quarters on a gas grill isn't just about cooking; it's about the love for outdoor living, creating flavorful memories, and sharing good times with loved ones.

Read next: How to Connect Weber Natural Gas Grill to Gas Line

FAQs about Grill Chicken Leg Quarters on Gas Grill

Final Words

And there we have it! A step-by-step guide to grilling delicious chicken leg quarters on a gas grill, from the selection of the ingredients to the last bite. It's not just about following a set of instructions; it's about embarking on a culinary journey and embracing the whole outdoor cooking experience.

So, why bother grilling chicken leg quarters, you may ask? Because they are economical, versatile, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the joy of grilling and the mouth-watering aroma of marinade-soaked chicken quarters sizzling over hot flames are quite unbeatable.

What's next then? The ball is in your court! Take the leap, fire up your gas grill, and let your culinary creativity fly. Experiment with different marinades, try new side dishes, adjust the heat to see how it changes the final outcome, and above all, have fun!

Remember, every time you grill, it's an opportunity to learn and perfect your skills. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a beginner, there's always room for improvement, and every new grilling session is a new adventure.

As a passionate outdoor enthusiast, I urge you to enjoy not just the result but also the entire process of grilling. Let the tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken fill your backyard, listen to the sizzle of the grill, watch as the golden brown hues develop on the chicken, and savor each bite. After all, life is too short for average-tasting chicken!

With that, I invite you to try this grilling guide over the weekend. And when you do, don't forget to share your experience and any newfound grilling tips. Happy grilling!

To know more: How to Grill Chicken Wings on Charcoal Grill