11 Crispy Chicken Leg Quarter Recipes Oven for a Quick Dinner
Chicken leg quarters offer a tasty, budget-friendly option for dinner. This blog post lists 11 crispy chicken leg quarter recipes you can make in the oven.
Each recipe delivers quick, simple steps for busy nights. You get juicy meat and crunchy skin without extra effort. These meals suit families, singles, or anyone wanting flavor fast.
The oven does the work, leaving you time to relax. Ingredients stay basic—think spices, oils, and pantry staples. Instructions break down each step clearly.

1. Classic Crispy Chicken Leg Quarters
About
This recipe brings you tender chicken with a golden, crispy skin. Salt, pepper, and paprika create a simple yet bold flavor. You can whip it up in under an hour. It pairs well with mashed potatoes or a green salad. Families love this one for its familiar taste. The oven gives you that perfect crunch without frying. Use basic ingredients you likely already have. Kids and adults both enjoy this no-fuss dish. It’s a go-to for weeknight dinners when time runs short. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. This classic stays a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Pat chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil over each piece.
- Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Sprinkle seasoning mix evenly on chicken.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite side.
2. Spicy Cajun Chicken Leg Quarters
About
This dish packs heat with Cajun spices. You get crispy skin and juicy meat in every bite. It’s ready in about an hour. Serve it with rice or coleslaw to cool the kick. The bold flavors wake up your taste buds. Perfect for spice lovers, this recipe uses a simple seasoning blend. The oven crisps it up nicely. Friends and family will ask for seconds. Adjust the spice level if you prefer milder tastes. It’s a fun twist on plain chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Dry chicken leg quarters with paper towels.
- Brush vegetable oil on all sides.
- Combine Cajun seasoning, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub seasoning mix over chicken evenly.
- Set chicken on a baking rack over a sheet pan.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Ensure temperature hits 165°F inside.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Plate it up and enjoy the heat.
3. Garlic Herb Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Garlic and herbs make this recipe aromatic and delicious. The skin turns crispy while the meat stays tender. You need less than an hour to prepare it. It goes great with roasted veggies or bread. This dish feels cozy and satisfying. Fresh rosemary and thyme add a nice touch. The oven locks in all the flavors. It’s simple enough for beginners but tasty enough for guests. Everyone loves the garlic kick. Try it for a quick, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Wipe chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
- Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt in a bowl.
- Coat chicken with the mixture.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Confirm internal temperature is 165°F.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes after baking.
- Serve with your chosen sides.
- Dig in and savor the herbs.
4. Honey Glazed Chicken Leg Quarters
About
This recipe mixes sweet honey with crispy chicken skin. You get a sticky, flavorful glaze in under an hour. It pairs well with steamed broccoli or rice. Kids love the sweetness, and adults enjoy the balance. The oven caramelizes the honey perfectly. Use soy sauce for a savory twist. It’s quick and needs few ingredients. This dish brightens up any dinner table. Save leftovers—they taste great the next day.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Dry chicken leg quarters with paper towels.
- Brush olive oil over chicken.
- Mix honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Spread mixture on chicken evenly.
- Place chicken on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Check temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let chicken sit for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy the glaze.
5. Lemon Pepper Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Lemon pepper brings a zesty, crispy bite to this dish. You can make it in about 45 minutes. It works well with a side of quinoa or asparagus. The bright flavor lifts your mood. The oven gives you that crunchy skin every time. This recipe keeps things light and fresh. Use extra lemon juice if you like. It’s perfect for a fast, tasty dinner. Everyone will love the tangy kick.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Pat chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil on chicken.
- Sprinkle lemon pepper and salt over each piece.
- Drizzle lemon juice on top.
- Set chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Verify internal temperature is 165°F.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes.
- Serve fresh and zesty.
6. BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters
About
This recipe delivers smoky BBQ flavor with crispy skin. You need an hour or less to cook it. Pair it with corn on the cob or baked beans. The oven makes it easy—no grill required. Kids and adults both dig the sticky sauce. Use your favorite BBQ blend. It’s a fun, messy meal for any night. The crispy texture surprises everyone. Try it when you crave summer vibes.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Dry chicken leg quarters with paper towels.
- Brush olive oil over chicken.
- Mix salt and smoked paprika, then rub on chicken.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Brush BBQ sauce on chicken.
- Bake 15 more minutes until 165°F inside.
- Let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve with extra sauce if you like.
7. Italian Seasoned Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Italian herbs give this chicken a crispy, flavorful crust. You can cook it in under an hour. It matches well with pasta or a green salad. The oven keeps the meat juicy. This recipe feels like a trattoria meal at home. Use dried oregano and basil for ease. Friends will think you worked hard—it’s that good. The aroma fills your kitchen fast. Enjoy it any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Wipe chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
- Coat chicken with olive oil.
- Mix oregano, basil, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Rub seasoning on chicken evenly.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Check temperature hits 165°F.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes.
- Serve with your favorite Italian side.
8. Chili Lime Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Chili and lime make this dish bold and crispy. You need about 45 minutes to prepare it. Serve it with rice or tortillas for a full meal. The flavors pop with every bite. The oven crisps the skin perfectly. Adjust the chili if you want less heat. It’s a fresh take on chicken dinners. Guests will love the tangy spice. This one’s a winner for quick nights.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Dry chicken leg quarters with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil on chicken.
- Mix chili powder, lime zest, lime juice, and salt in a bowl.
- Spread mixture over chicken.
- Set chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Ensure temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve with a lime wedge.
9. Rosemary Garlic Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Rosemary and garlic create a crispy, fragrant dish here. You can make it in under an hour. It pairs nicely with roasted potatoes or carrots. The oven keeps the flavors strong. This recipe feels warm and inviting. Use fresh rosemary if you have it. It’s simple but tastes special. Dinner guests will enjoy every bite. Try it for a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Pat chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
- Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub mixture on chicken evenly.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 45 minutes.
- Check internal temperature is 165°F.
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with your sides.
- Enjoy the rosemary aroma.
10. Smoky Paprika Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Smoky paprika gives this chicken a crispy, rich taste. You need 45 minutes to cook it. It goes great with mac and cheese or a cucumber salad. The oven makes the skin crunchy. This dish brings bold flavor fast. Adjust the paprika for your preference. It’s a hit with everyone at the table. The smoky vibe feels like a barbecue indoors. Make it tonight for a treat.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Dry chicken leg quarters with paper towels.
- Brush olive oil over chicken.
- Mix smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub seasoning on chicken evenly.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 40 minutes.
- Verify temperature hits 165°F.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve and taste the smoke.
11. Teriyaki Chicken Leg Quarters
About
Teriyaki sauce turns this chicken crispy and sweet. You can prepare it in about an hour. Serve it with rice or stir-fried veggies. The oven glazes the skin just right. Kids love the sticky flavor. Use store-bought or homemade sauce. It’s a quick way to switch up dinner. The savory-sweet mix keeps everyone happy. Try it for a fun family meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Wipe chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels.
- Coat chicken with olive oil.
- Mix teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Brush mixture over chicken.
- Place chicken on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Brush more teriyaki sauce on top.
- Bake 15 more minutes until 165°F inside.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and serve hot.

Hi, I’m Liza Jensen, your culinary companion here at Recipe by Liza. 🍳🥗Cooking has always been my passion—I find joy in every whisk, every sizzle, and every aromatic spice. As a home cook and recipe developer, I’ve explored flavors from around the world, creating dishes that warm hearts and tantalize taste buds.Join me on this flavorful journey! Let’s swap kitchen stories, share tips, and celebrate the magic of food together.