How To Make Fried Chicken Leg Quarters Taste Like They Came From A Restaurant – Tips And Tricks From A Professional Chef

Fried chicken leg quarters are a delectable culinary creation that tantalizes taste buds and satisfies cravings. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential steps and tips to craft perfectly fried chicken leg quarters that will become the star of your next meal.

Gather Your Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4-6 chicken leg quarters (bone-in, skin-on)
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Brine:

• 1 gallon water
• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

For the Seasoning:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Prepare the Brine

In a large container, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve. Submerge the chicken leg quarters in the brine and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.

Season the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Season the chicken leg quarters liberally with the flour mixture.

Heat the Oil

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven filled with vegetable oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.

Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the seasoned chicken leg quarters into the hot oil. Fry for 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when measured with a meat thermometer.

Rest and Serve

Remove the fried chicken leg quarters from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Allow them to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Leg Quarters

• Use bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters for the best flavor and texture.
• Brining the chicken helps to enhance its juiciness and tenderize it.
• Season the chicken liberally to ensure a flavorful crust.
• Heat the oil to the correct temperature to prevent undercooked or overcooked chicken.
• Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot and ensure even cooking.
• Allow the chicken to rest before serving to maximize its juiciness.

Variations

• Spicy Fried Chicken Leg Quarters: Add an extra teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture.
• Garlic Herb Fried Chicken Leg Quarters: Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of dried oregano to the seasoning mixture.
• Honey Glazed Fried Chicken Leg Quarters: After frying, brush the chicken with a mixture of 1/2 cup honey and 1/4 cup soy sauce.

The Bottom Line: Elevate Your Culinary Skills with Fried Chicken Leg Quarters

Mastering the art of fried chicken leg quarters is a culinary triumph that will delight your family and friends. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can create perfectly fried, juicy, and flavorful chicken leg quarters that will become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Experiment with different seasonings and variations to explore a world of culinary possibilities.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: How long should I brine the chicken leg quarters?
A: For optimal results, brine the chicken for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.

Q: What oil should I use for frying?
A: Vegetable oil is the most commonly used oil for frying chicken leg quarters. It has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.