Imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma of perfectly cooked chicken leg quarters wafting through your kitchen. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set your crockpot to work and let it work its magic for six hours, transforming simple ingredients into a succulent meal that will have your family begging for seconds. This American classic is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful, thanks to a delightful blend of spices and savory chicken broth. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this hassle-free recipe that promises tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken leg quarters from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a dry seasoning blend.
- Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over all sides of the chicken leg quarters, ensuring even coverage and gently rubbing the spices into the meat.
- Spray the inside of the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Place the seasoned chicken leg quarters into the crockpot, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Carefully pour the chicken broth around the chicken, being careful not to wash off the seasoning.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set to low heat setting for slow, even cooking.
- Cook for 6 hours, allowing the chicken to become tender and fully cooked through.
- Check internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Once done, carefully remove chicken leg quarters from crockpot and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: For crispy skin, place chicken under broiler for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Pat it Dry: Always pat the chicken leg quarters dry before seasoning. This helps the spices adhere better and ensures a more flavorful crust.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Make sure to cover all sides of the chicken leg quarters for a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Use Non-Stick Spray: Spraying the crockpot with non-stick cooking spray will not only prevent sticking but also make cleanup a breeze.
- Layering is Key: Arrange the chicken in a single layer in the crockpot to ensure even cooking. Avoid overcrowding for the best results.
- Broil for Crispy Skin: If you love crispy skin, finish the chicken under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after cooking. This adds a delicious texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
- Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let it Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the crockpot. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier bite.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 331kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 100mg
