Grilling Leg Quarters On Gas Grill: A Guide To Cook Time

Grilling leg quarters on a gas grill is a delicious way to enjoy tender, juicy meat with a smoky, charred flavor. But how long should you grill them? Well, the ideal grilling time for leg quarters on a gas grill can vary depending on a few factors. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook them for around 30 to 35 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Want to know more about how long to grill leg quarters on a gas grill? Keep reading, and we’ll delve deeper into the details to help you master this grilling technique.

How Long to Grill Leg Quarters on Gas Grill

Grilling leg quarters on a gas grill is a great way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a smoky, charred flavor. However, getting the timing right can be a challenge, as undercooking can result in unsafe meat while overcooking can lead to dry and tough chicken. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the optimal cooking times for grilling leg quarters on a gas grill, ensuring you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Preparing the Leg Quarters

Before we dive into the grilling process, it’s essential to properly prepare the leg quarters for optimal flavor and tenderness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing your leg quarters:

1. Start by rinsing the leg quarters under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
2. Next, remove any excess fat or loose skin from the leg quarters.
3. If desired, you can season the leg quarters with your favorite dry rub or marinade. This step is optional, but it can enhance the flavor of the chicken.
4. Allow the leg quarters to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Preparing the Gas Grill

Now that the leg quarters are ready, it’s time to prepare the gas grill. Properly setting up your grill will ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking. Follow these steps to prepare your gas grill:

1. Clean the grill grates thoroughly to remove any residue from previous use. This prevents any unwanted flavors and reduces the risk of sticking.
2. Preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat. This typically ranges from 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 230°C).
3. If your gas grill has multiple burners, you can light only one burner and leave the others off. This creates an indirect heating zone, which is ideal for grilling thicker cuts of meat, like leg quarters.
4. Allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.

Grilling the Leg Quarters

Now comes the exciting part – grilling the leg quarters to perfection.

1. Place the prepared leg quarters on the preheated grill grates, skin side down. Ensure there is enough space between the pieces to allow for even cooking.
2. Cook the leg quarters over direct heat for approximately 6-8 minutes per side. This initial searing helps lock in the juices and adds beautiful grill marks.
3. After the initial sear, move the leg quarters to the indirect heat zone of the grill.
4. Cook the chicken with the grill’s lid closed to retain heat and ensure even cooking. This allows the leg quarters to cook through without becoming overly charred on the outside.
5. Continue cooking the leg quarters for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to accurately determine the meat’s temperature.
6. To achieve crispy skin, you can move the leg quarters back to the direct heat zone for the final few minutes of cooking. This step is optional and depends on personal preference.
7. Once cooked, remove the leg quarters from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in juicier chicken.

Ensuring Food Safety

When grilling leg quarters or any poultry, it is essential to prioritize food safety. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Always ensure that the internal temperature of the leg quarters reaches 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria.
• Use a clean plate or platter to transfer the cooked chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
• Do not reuse any marinade or juices that have come into contact with raw chicken.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw chicken.

Tips and Tricks for Grilling Leg Quarters

To further elevate your grilling game and achieve the best results with leg quarters on a gas grill, here are some additional tips and tricks:

• Brine the leg quarters before grilling to enhance moisture and flavor.
• Baste the chicken with a flavorful sauce or marinade during the last few minutes of grilling for added sweetness and tanginess.
• Experiment with different wood chips or pellets to infuse the chicken with a unique smoky flavor.
• Consider using a grill thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken accurately.
• Avoid lifting the grill lid too frequently as it increases cooking time and temperature fluctuations.

By following these guidelines and incorporating your personal preferences, you’ll master the art of grilling leg quarters on a gas grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a delicious family meal, perfectly grilled and juicy leg quarters will surely impress everyone at the table. Happy grilling!

How to make the best and worst Barbecue Chicken Quarters on a Gas Grill

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I grill leg quarters on a gas grill?

The cooking time for grilling leg quarters on a gas grill can vary depending on the heat intensity and thickness of the meat. However, a general guideline for grilling leg quarters on a gas grill is to cook them for approximately 25-30 minutes per side.

What temperature should I set my gas grill to cook leg quarters?

To properly cook leg quarters on a gas grill, it is recommended to preheat the grill to medium-high heat, which is around 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit (190-204 degrees Celsius). This temperature allows for a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

How do I know when the leg quarters are fully cooked?

To ensure that the leg quarters are fully cooked, you can use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone. The chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).

Should I marinate the leg quarters before grilling?

Marinating the leg quarters before grilling can add extra flavor and tenderness to the meat. You can marinate the leg quarters in your choice of marinade for at least 30 minutes to overnight in the refrigerator. Make sure to pat them dry before placing them on the grill.

Can I grill leg quarters directly over the flame?

It is best to avoid grilling leg quarters directly over the flame. Instead, use the indirect grilling method by turning off the burners under the chicken and leaving the burners on the sides or opposite side of the chicken on. This allows for even cooking and reduces the risk of flare-ups.

Should I grill leg quarters with the skin on or off?

Grilling leg quarters with the skin on helps retain moisture and adds flavor to the meat. However, if you prefer a crispy skin, you can remove it before grilling. Just keep in mind that grilling with the skin on may require a longer cooking time to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.

Final Thoughts

To achieve perfectly grilled leg quarters on a gas grill, follow these guidelines for optimal cooking times. Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. Place the leg quarters skin-side down on the grill and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. Juicy, flavorful leg quarters can be achieved by brushing them with your favorite marinade or seasoning before grilling. With these simple steps, you can confidently cook delicious leg quarters on your gas grill. So, how long to grill leg quarters on a gas grill? Approximately 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).