recipe for chicken quarters
- The Best recipe for chicken quarters
- Garlic Butter Chicken Quarters with Crispy Dough
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Chicken Quarters with Crispy Dough Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken Quarters with Crispy Dough
The Best recipe for chicken quarters
Oh, this chicken quarters recipe is one of my all-time favorites—simple enough to whip up in under an hour but packed with flavor that makes it feel special every time. I love how they stay juicy and tender, unlike those tougher cuts you sometimes get, and they’re easy to cook in one pan or oven, so there’s no fuss. My kids actually beg for this when they’re done—no complaints about eating their veggies when they’re sitting next to perfectly seasoned chicken. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a weekend treat but is actually just as good for everyday meals. Plus, the health benefits? Well, chicken quarters are lean protein, which keeps us full and helps with muscle maintenance, and the veggies we toss in add fiber and vitamins. It’s a win-win for the whole family, whether we’re hosting a dinner party or just making a quick weeknight meal.
Garlic Butter Chicken Quarters with Crispy Dough
A flavorful dish featuring tender chicken quarters coated in a light, buttery dough and simmered in a rich garlic tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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2 In a small bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
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3 In another bowl, whisk egg, melted butter, and milk until smooth. Gradually add the dry mixture and mix until a soft dough forms. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
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4 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken quarters, skin-side down, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes until fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Remove from skillet and set aside.
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5 In the same skillet, add butter and olive oil. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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6 Add heavy cream to the sauce and simmer for another 2 minutes. Pour sauce over chicken quarters and mix gently.
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7 Transfer chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 10–12 minutes until the dough is golden and crispy.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Oven-safe skillet or saucepan
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Garlic Butter Chicken Quarters with Crispy Dough Works
This recipe for chicken quarters is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to prep ahead but still tastes fresh and flavorful when served. It works perfectly for family gatherings because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without feeling like extra work, and the tender meat absorbs the spices and sauce beautifully. Plus, you can adjust the seasoning to match whatever’s already on the table—whether it’s a bold marinade or a light herb rub—so it blends right in without needing much attention.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Chicken Quarters with Crispy Dough
What is the best way to season chicken quarters for maximum flavor?
The best way to season chicken quarters is by using a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne for heat. For extra depth, you can also add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Don’t forget to let the seasoning sit for at least 15-30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate.
How do I ensure chicken quarters stay juicy while cooking?
To keep chicken quarters juicy, avoid overcooking—stick to a medium internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Brining the chicken for 15-30 minutes in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar before cooking can also help retain moisture. Additionally, patting the chicken dry before seasoning and cooking ensures better browning and crispiness.
What are the best cooking methods for chicken quarters, and which one should I use?
Chicken quarters can be cooked using several methods: pan-searing (for crispy skin), grilling (for smoky flavor), baking (for hands-off cooking), or slow-cooking (for tender, fall-apart texture). For a balanced approach, pan-searing followed by baking is often recommended—first brown the quarters in a hot skillet, then transfer to the oven for even cooking.
How long should I cook chicken quarters, and what temperature should I use?
For pan-searing, cook chicken quarters over medium-high heat for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown. Then, transfer to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If grilling, cook for 6-8 minutes per side until fully done.
Can I use chicken quarters in place of chicken breasts or thighs, and if so, how?
Yes, chicken quarters can replace breasts or thighs in many recipes, but they may require slight adjustments. Since they’re larger and have more connective tissue, they can benefit from longer cooking times (especially if slow-cooked) or lower heat to avoid drying out. For a quicker method, cut them into smaller pieces (like cubes) to cook faster and more evenly.
