How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken Quarters on the Grill for Juicy, Flavorful Results?

Chicken quarters are an extremely versatile and delicious cut of chicken that are perfect for grilling. Consisting of the leg and thigh chicken quarters contain a good balance of white and dark meat providing a nice mix of flavors. Best of all, chicken quarters are affordable and feed a crowd easily. But to get the most out of this cut, it’s important to know how long to cook chicken quarters on the grill. With the right techniques, you can achieve perfectly juicy, flavorful grilled chicken quarters every time.

Understanding Chicken Quarters

Before diving into grill times, it helps to understand what exactly chicken quarters are. Chicken quarters contain the leg and thigh together in one piece. They typically weigh between 1.5 to 2.5 pounds each.

Chicken quarters contain both white and dark meat – the thigh is dark while the leg/drumstick is white. This provides a complex, well-rounded flavor when grilled. The bone-in chicken quarters also retain moisture well. The skin helps keep the meat extra juicy.

Nutritionally chicken quarters contain about 25 grams of protein per quarter as well as B vitamins like niacin and vitamin B6. The skin adds fat, but grilling allows some of the fat to render out. Overall, chicken quarters make a tasty and nutritious choice compared to fried chicken.

Average Grill Times for Chicken Quarters

So how long should you grill those chicken quarters for optimal results? Here are the approximate grill times:

• 30-40 minutes over medium heat is ideal for bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters. This allows time for the inside to cook through while the outside browns.

• Grill for 15-20 minutes per side, flipping halfway. Watch for flare-ups.

• 25-35 minutes total for boneless chicken quarters or smaller cuts like leg thighs.

• Regardless of weight, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F-175°F (74°C-79°C).

These times are based on quarters ranging from 1.5-2.5 pounds grilled over medium heat, around 350°F (177°C). Several factors can increase or decrease cook time.

Factors that Affect Chicken Quarter Grill Times

While 30-40 minutes is the standard, keep these factors in mind as they can alter grill durations:

• Heat level: Cooking over high heat reduces time while low heat increases it. Stick to medium heat for best results.

• Size: Larger quarters take longer. Add 5-10 extra minutes for very big pieces.

• Bone-in vs boneless: Bone-in quarters take more time. Follow standard times.

• Marinades: Wet marinades may extend time slightly while dry rubs cook faster.

• Doneness: Cook until chicken reaches the proper internal temperature for safety.

• Grill type: Gas grills heat faster than charcoal. Adjust times as needed.

• Flare-ups: Keep an eye out for excessive flare-ups which can char the outside.

Monitoring these factors allows you to adjust cook times as needed for perfect doneness.

Tips for Grilling Juicy Chicken Quarters

Achieving tender, juicy chicken quarters requires using the right techniques. Follow these tips:

• Use a meat thermometer to check temperature. Insert into the thickest part of the thigh, away from the bone.

• Cook to 165°-175°F (74°C-79°C) for food safety and ideal juiciness.

• Use indirect heat to cook the quarters thoroughly without burning.

• Sear first over direct heat to brown the skin, then move to indirect heat.

• Flip frequently for even cooking and to prevent flare-ups from charring.

• Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving so juices can redistribute.

Mastering these methods will take your grilled chicken quarters to the next level.

Flavor-Building Tips

Achieving next-level chicken quarters also means maximizing flavor.

• Marinate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight for more flavor infusion. Use an acidic marinade.

• Season well with spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper.

• Brush on sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a boost of flavor.

• Try a dry rub instead of marinade for crispy skin and pronounced seasoning.

With the right prep, your chicken quarters will be bursting with flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide for Grilling Chicken Quarters

Follow this simple step-by-step guide for grilled chicken quarter perfection:

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
• Marinade of choice
• Oil for brushing
• Seasoning blend
• BBQ sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse chicken quarters and pat dry.

2. Marinate for 30 mins – 4 hours.

3. Remove quarters from marinade, brush with oil.

4. Season chicken all over with spice blend.

5. Preheat grill to medium heat, 350°F (177°C).

6. Sear quarters skin-side down over direct heat for 5-7 minutes.

7. Move quarters to indirect heat, close lid. Grill for 30-40 mins, flipping occasionally.

8. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 5 minutes if desired.

9. Grill until internal temperature reaches 165°-175°F (74°C-79°C).

10. Remove quarters from grill, let rest 5-10 mins.

11. Serve grilled chicken quarters and enjoy!

Following these tips and techniques, you can grill juicy, flavorful chicken quarters every time. Mastering the ideal cook times ensures your chicken reaches the proper doneness. A few small tweaks like indirect heat, frequent flipping, and resting produce chicken quarters that are tender and moist.

Next time you grill up chicken quarters, keep these pointers in mind. Understanding how long chicken quarters need on the grill means you’ll serve up perfect results at your next barbecue. Happy grilling!

For grilling chicken, it’s generally better to use a medium-high heat, which translates to a temperature range of 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 204°C). This range allows for a good sear on the outside while ensuring the chicken cooks through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Grilling chicken typically involves cooking it for 5-7 minutes per side over medium-high heat, with the total cooking time varying based on the cut and thickness.