How Long to Cook Leg Quarters on the Grill (So They’re Juicy and Delicious!)
How Long to Cook Leg Quarters on the Grill
Grilled chicken leg quarters are a delicious and easy way to cook a crowd. They’re also a great way to use up leftover chicken. But how long do you cook leg quarters on the grill?
The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including the size of the leg quarters, the temperature of your grill, and your personal preference. In this article, we’ll discuss all of those factors and help you determine the best way to cook leg quarters on the grill.
We’ll also provide some tips for grilling chicken leg quarters so that they come out perfectly cooked every time. So whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, read on for all the information you need to know about grilling chicken leg quarters!
| Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30-40 minutes | 350-375 degrees F | Turn the chicken every 10 minutes or so to ensure even cooking. |
| 15-20 minutes | 400-425 degrees F | For a crispier skin, cook the chicken uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes. |
Leg quarters are a popular grilling option because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to cook, and flavorful. However, it can be difficult to know how long to cook leg quarters on the grill so that they are cooked through but not dry.
This guide will provide you with the information you need to cook leg quarters on the grill perfectly every time. We will discuss the factors that affect cooking time, provide general guidelines for cooking leg quarters, and share some tips for grilling leg quarters.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
The following factors will affect the cooking time of leg quarters on the grill:
- Size of the leg quarters: Smaller leg quarters will cook faster than larger leg quarters.
- Temperature of the grill: The higher the temperature of the grill, the faster the leg quarters will cook.
- Type of grill: A charcoal grill will produce more heat than a gas grill, so leg quarters will cook faster on a charcoal grill.
- Whether the leg quarters are bone-in or boneless: Bone-in leg quarters will take longer to cook than boneless leg quarters.
- Whether the leg quarters are marinated or not: Marinated leg quarters will take longer to cook than unmarinated leg quarters.
General Guidelines for Cooking Leg Quarters on Grill
The following are general guidelines for cooking leg quarters on the grill:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Cook the leg quarters for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Baste the leg quarters with barbecue sauce or marinade every few minutes while cooking.
- Let the leg quarters rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Grilling Leg Quarters
Here are some tips for grilling leg quarters:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the leg quarters. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before the leg quarters are considered cooked through.
- Baste the leg quarters with barbecue sauce or marinade every few minutes while cooking. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Let the leg quarters rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to become more tender.
By following these tips, you can cook leg quarters on the grill perfectly every time. Enjoy!
How Long To Cook Leg Quarters On Grill?
The cooking time for leg quarters on the grill will vary depending on the size of the quarters, the temperature of the grill, and your personal preference. However, as a general rule of thumb, leg quarters will take between 30 and 45 minutes to cook on the grill.
To determine if the leg quarters are cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here is a more detailed guide to grilling leg quarters:
Step 1: Preheat the grill to medium heat.
You can use a charcoal grill, gas grill, or pellet grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, build a fire and let it burn for about 15 minutes before grilling the leg quarters. If you are using a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium heat. If you are using a pellet grill, preheat the grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Marinate the leg quarters.
Marinate the leg quarters in a flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This will help to add moisture and flavor to the meat.
Step 3: Grill the leg quarters.
Grill the leg quarters for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Baste the leg quarters with barbecue sauce or marinade every few minutes to keep them moist.
Step 4: Let the leg quarters rest.
After grilling the leg quarters, let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy.
Tips for Grilling Leg Quarters
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the leg quarters. Don’t overcook the leg quarters, as this will make them dry and tough.
- Marinate the leg quarters in a flavorful marinade to add moisture and flavor.
- Baste the leg quarters with barbecue sauce or marinade while cooking to keep them moist.
- If the leg quarters are sticking to the grill, brush them with oil before cooking.
- If the leg quarters are overcooked, they will be dry and tough.
- If the leg quarters are undercooked, they will be pink and juicy.
Troubleshooting
If the leg quarters are sticking to the grill, brush them with oil before cooking.
If the leg quarters are overcooked, they will be dry and tough. To avoid this, cook the leg quarters until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the leg quarters are undercooked, they will be pink and juicy. To avoid this, cook the leg quarters until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grilling leg quarters is a delicious and easy way to cook a flavorful and juicy meal. By following these tips, you can cook perfect leg quarters every time.
How long do I cook leg quarters on the grill?
The cooking time for leg quarters on the grill will vary depending on the size of the quarters, the temperature of the grill, and your desired level of doneness. For medium-sized leg quarters (about 1 pound each), grill for 30-35 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. For larger leg quarters, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes per side.
What temperature should I grill leg quarters?
The ideal grilling temperature for leg quarters is 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help to ensure that the meat is cooked evenly and that the skin gets crispy.
How do I prevent leg quarters from drying out on the grill?
There are a few things you can do to prevent leg quarters from drying out on the grill. First, make sure to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Leg quarters are done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Second, baste the meat with a flavorful liquid, such as barbecue sauce or melted butter, every few minutes while it is grilling. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Finally, don’t overcook the meat. Overcooked meat will be dry and tough.
What are some tips for grilling leg quarters?
Here are a few tips for grilling leg quarters:
- Marinate the meat in a flavorful liquid for several hours or overnight before grilling. This will help to add flavor and moisture to the meat.
- Preheat the grill to 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit before grilling the meat. This will help to ensure that the meat is cooked evenly and that the skin gets crispy.
- Baste the meat with a flavorful liquid every few minutes while it is grilling. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Don’t overcook the meat. Overcooked meat will be dry and tough.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute and the meat will be more tender.
What are some common mistakes people make when grilling leg quarters?
Here are a few common mistakes people make when grilling leg quarters:
- Not using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Leg quarters are done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Overcooking the meat. Overcooked meat will be dry and tough.
- Not basting the meat with a flavorful liquid while it is grilling. This will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Not letting the meat rest before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute and the meat will be more tender.
the ideal cooking time for leg quarters on the grill depends on a number of factors, including the size of the quarters, the temperature of the grill, and your personal preference. However, as a general rule, you can expect to cook leg quarters for between 30 and 45 minutes per pound. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the meat with a meat thermometer to ensure that it is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
When grilling leg quarters, it is important to cook them over indirect heat to prevent the meat from drying out. You can also use a marinade or rub to add flavor and moisture to the meat. If you are grilling leg quarters for a crowd, you can cook them ahead of time and then reheat them before serving.
With a little planning and care, you can easily grill delicious and juicy leg quarters for your next cookout.
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