Smoky Paprika Baked Chicken Leg Quarters: Easy Weeknight Dinner

Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare chicken leg quarters, this baked recipe is the perfect weeknight dinner. Succulent meat, crispy skin, and a smoky paprika flavor make every bite unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe

• Quick prep: Ready in about 10 minutes.
• Bold flavor: Smoky paprika and garlic spice blend.
• Crispy skin: High-heat bake makes the skin extra crunchy.
• Family-friendly: Fuss-free comfort food the whole crew will enjoy.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Leg Quarters

• 5 chicken leg quarters, trimmed of excess fat
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley

How to Bake Chicken Leg Quarters

1. Gather all ingredients. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a sheet pan with aluminum foil and set a wire rack on top for even heat circulation.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This homemade spice mix delivers deep, smoky flavor.
3. Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels to ensure crisp skin. Rub the spice mixture evenly over each piece, then brush all sides with melted butter.
4. Arrange the seasoned leg quarters on the prepared rack. Bake for 25 minutes, then carefully flip each piece and bake an additional 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot for the juiciest results.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Skin

• Use room-temperature chicken so it bakes more evenly.
• Don’t skip patting the skin dry—moisture is the enemy of crunch.
• High heat is key: 425°F helps render fat and crisp up the skin.
• Let the chicken rest before cutting to lock in the juices.

Storytime: One busy weeknight, I whipped up these chicken leg quarters with nothing but pantry spices—and my family devoured every bite before I could blink! It’s proof that simple ingredients can shine when you focus on technique.

Enjoy your chicken leg quarters fresh out of the oven!

Recipe credit: Allrecipes