How To Cook Chicken Leg Quarters In Electric Skillet

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Storables.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Introduction

Chicken leg quarters are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One popular cooking method is using an electric skillet. This kitchen appliance provides even heat distribution and allows you to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside.

In this article, we will guide you through the process of cooking chicken leg quarters in an electric skillet. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this step-by-step guide will help you create a flavorful and well-cooked dish.

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you will need.

Ingredients

To cook chicken leg quarters in an electric skillet, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 chicken leg quarters
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• Optional: additional herbs and spices of your choice (such as oregano, thyme, or cayenne pepper)

These ingredients are the foundation for a well-seasoned and flavorful chicken dish. You can adjust the seasonings according to your personal preferences and experiment with different herbs and spices to add a unique twist to the recipe.

Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the next step: preparing the chicken leg quarters.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Leg Quarters

Before cooking the chicken leg quarters, it’s essential to properly prepare them. Follow these steps to ensure the chicken is ready for seasoning and cooking:

1. Start by rinsing the chicken leg quarters under cool running water. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
2. If desired, you can remove the skin from the chicken leg quarters. This step is optional but can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish. Use a sharp knife to carefully peel off the skin, starting from one end and working your way to the other.
3. Next, inspect the chicken leg quarters for any remaining feathers or quills. Use a pair of kitchen tweezers to pluck out any stray feathers or quills that may still be attached.
4. Trim any excess fat from the chicken leg quarters. While a little fat can add flavor, removing excessive amounts can prevent a greasy finished dish.
5. Now that the chicken leg quarters are prepared, it’s time to move on to the next step: seasoning them.

By following these steps, you will ensure that the chicken leg quarters are clean, trimmed, and ready for the next stage of the cooking process.

Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken

Seasoning the chicken leg quarters is an essential step to infuse them with flavor. Here’s how you can season them to perfection:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. This blend will create a basic seasoning that adds depth to the chicken’s taste.
2. Take each chicken leg quarter and rub it generously with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and enhance the overall texture.
3. Sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture over each chicken leg quarter. Make sure to coat all sides evenly for a balanced flavor profile.
4. If desired, you can add additional herbs and spices at this stage. Experiment with your favorite flavors to create a personalized seasoning blend. Some popular options include oregano, thyme, or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
5. Gently massage the seasoning into the chicken leg quarters, ensuring that they are thoroughly coated. This step helps to infuse the flavor into the meat.
6. Allow the seasoned chicken leg quarters to sit for at least 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and enhances the overall taste.

By following these steps, you will ensure that the chicken leg quarters are well-seasoned and ready to be cooked in the electric skillet. Now, let’s move on to preheating the electric skillet.

Step 3: Preheating the Electric Skillet

Preheating the electric skillet is an important step in achieving a perfectly cooked chicken leg quarters. Follow these steps to properly preheat your electric skillet:

1. Place your electric skillet on a flat and heat-resistant surface. Make sure it is clean and dry before using.
2. Turn on the electric skillet and adjust the temperature to medium-high heat. This setting allows the skillet to heat up adequately for cooking the chicken leg quarters.
3. Allow the skillet to preheat for a few minutes, until it reaches the desired temperature. This step ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan.
4. During the preheating process, you can add a small amount of olive oil or cooking spray to the skillet to further prevent sticking. However, since we have already rubbed the chicken leg quarters with oil, this step is optional.
5. Once the electric skillet is properly preheated, it’s time to cook the chicken leg quarters.

By following these steps, you will ensure that your electric skillet is heated and ready to cook the chicken leg quarters to perfection. Next, let’s move on to the cooking process itself.

To ensure even cooking, sear the chicken leg quarters on both sides in the electric skillet before lowering the heat and covering to finish cooking. This will help lock in the juices and create a crispy outer layer.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken Leg Quarters

Now that the chicken leg quarters are seasoned and the electric skillet is preheated, it’s time to start cooking. Follow these steps to achieve juicy and flavorful chicken leg quarters:

1. Place the seasoned chicken leg quarters in the preheated electric skillet, skin side down. By starting with the skin side down, you can achieve a crispy and golden-brown exterior.
2. Cook the chicken leg quarters for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice sear. This step helps to lock in the juices and creates a flavorful crust.
3. After searing both sides, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the electric skillet with a lid to trap the heat and steam the chicken leg quarters. This step ensures thorough cooking and keeps the meat tender.
4. Cook the chicken leg quarters for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
5. Remember to flip the chicken leg quarters occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. This helps to prevent any areas from becoming overcooked or undercooked.
6. Once the chicken leg quarters are cooked through, remove them from the electric skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in more tender and succulent meat.

By following these steps, you will achieve perfectly cooked and delicious chicken leg quarters. However, it’s essential to check for doneness before serving.

Step 5: Checking for Doneness

Before serving the chicken leg quarters, it’s crucial to check for doneness to ensure that they are cooked all the way through. Follow these steps to determine if the chicken leg quarters are done:

1. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken leg quarters. The temperature should read 165°F (74°C), indicating that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
2. Alternatively, you can use a knife or fork to make a small incision into the thickest part of one of the chicken leg quarters. The meat should be white and opaque, with no traces of pink or rawness.
3. If you notice any signs of pinkness or rawness, return the chicken leg quarters to the electric skillet and cook for a few more minutes until they reach the desired level of doneness.

It’s essential to ensure that the chicken leg quarters are fully cooked to avoid any risks of foodborne illnesses. Once you have confirmed that the chicken is cooked through, it’s time to serve and enjoy!

Step 6: Serving and Enjoying the Chicken Leg Quarters

After all the hard work of preparing and cooking the chicken leg quarters, it’s time to savor the delicious flavors. Here’s how you can serve and enjoy the chicken leg quarters:

1. Transfer the cooked chicken leg quarters to a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Garnish the chicken leg quarters with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Accompany the chicken leg quarters with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.
4. Serve the chicken leg quarters hot and enjoy them immediately while they are still juicy and flavorful.
5. Pair the dish with a refreshing beverage of your choice, such as a glass of iced tea or a chilled white wine.
6. Sit back, relax, and savor each bite of the tender and flavorful chicken leg quarters.

Remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for future enjoyment. The chicken leg quarters can be reheated in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Now that you have successfully cooked and served the chicken leg quarters, take a moment to appreciate your culinary skills and enjoy the rewarding experience of creating a delicious meal.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken leg quarters in an electric skillet is a convenient and enjoyable way to prepare a delicious meal. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken leg quarters that are sure to impress your family and friends.

From preparing the chicken leg quarters to seasoning them to perfection, preheating the electric skillet, and cooking them to the ideal doneness, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a mouthwatering result. Checking for doneness is essential to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly, and finally, serving and enjoying the cooked chicken leg quarters with your favorite side dishes makes for a satisfying and memorable meal.

Remember to personalize the seasoning and experiment with different herbs and spices to cater to your taste preferences. The electric skillet provides even heat distribution and helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender on the inside.

So, whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, don’t hesitate to try cooking chicken leg quarters in an electric skillet. With a bit of preparation, seasoning, and cooking time, you can create a delectable chicken dish that will leave everyone wanting more.

Now, gather the ingredients, fire up your electric skillet, and embark on a culinary adventure filled with mouthwatering flavors and culinary satisfaction. Bon appétit!