This Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters recipe is a breeze! You just toss the chicken in the slow cooker with your favorite spices, and let it do the work while you relax.
The chicken becomes super tender and juicy, with flavors soaking in from the spices. I love to serve it with rice or veggies for a complete meal. You won’t believe how easy this is! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Leg Quarters: These pieces are perfect for slow cooking as they become tender and juicy. If you’re looking for a substitution, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead. They will offer a similar flavor and texture!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps the spices stick to the chicken. You can use any cooking oil you prefer, like vegetable or canola oil, if olive oil isn’t available.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary adds great flavor. Feel free to mix in your favorite spices. Italian seasoning works well, or try adding some chili powder for a kick!
Chicken Broth: Using chicken broth enhances the dish’s flavor. If you’re low on broth, water with a bit of seasoning or vegetable broth will also work nicely.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Full of Flavor?
To boost flavor, it’s vital to season the chicken well. After patting it dry, rub it generously with your spice mix. This helps the spices penetrate the meat.
- Consider marinating the chicken in the olive oil and spices for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- If you choose to sear the chicken before placing it in the crockpot, don’t skip this step! It adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Trust the slow cooker! The longer cooking time allows flavors to develop beautifully, but don’t hesitate to check the chicken towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. It’s perfect for a hands-off dinner, allowing you to enjoy your day while the chicken cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy later on!
2. Make the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and smoked paprika. This blend will season your chicken beautifully!
3. Season the Chicken:
Rub the olive oil all over the chicken leg quarters. Then, evenly coat the chicken with the spice mixture, making sure every bit of chicken is covered.
4. Optional Searing:
If you want extra crispy skin, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken skin-side down for about 3-4 minutes until it turns golden brown. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step!
5. Place in the Crockpot:
Arrange the seasoned chicken leg quarters in a single layer in the crockpot.
6. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour the chicken broth around the chicken in the crockpot, which will help keep it moist throughout the cooking process.
7. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s tender and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Crisp Up the Skin:
For a crispier skin, move the cooked chicken to a baking sheet and place it under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the chicken with fresh thyme sprigs before serving. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful crockpot chicken leg quarters with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Leg Quarters?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the cold water method for quicker results, ensuring they are in a sealed plastic bag.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if they seem dry.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, you can substitute it with vegetable broth, or you can use water mixed with a bit of salt and herbs to infuse flavor. Just keep the liquid level about the same for cooking.
Can I Use Other Spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices. Italian seasoning, taco seasoning, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for heat will all work well and give a unique twist to the dish!