Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe is a lifesaver when I want a delicious, hands-off dinner. This delightful Chicken Recipe allows the chicken to cook slowly, resulting in tender and flavorful meat with minimal effort. I’ve tried many methods, but using the crock pot is the easiest and most reliable way to get juicy chicken every time. This Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe perfect for busy days when I want to come home to a ready meal. I’m excited to share my simple and tasty Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe with you!

Ingredients For the Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe

- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 carrots, chopped (optional)
- 2 potatoes, cubed (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide To Preparing The Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe
Preparing the Chicken Leg Quarters
Rinse the chicken leg quarters carefully and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
Seasoning the Chicken
In a small bowl, mix paprika, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Evenly rub the seasoning over the chicken pieces.
Adding fresh Vegetables and Liquid to the Crock Pot
Place the sliced onions, carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of the crock pot. Add minced garlic on top. Pour in the chicken broth. Now, place the seasoned chicken leg quarters on top of the vegetables.
Cooking Time and Settings for the Recipe
Cover the crock pot with its lid. Cook on low for at least 6-7 hours or on high for at least 3-4 hours until the seasoned chicken is fully cooked and tender.
Checking Doneness and Finishing Touches
You can use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). After cooking, properly broil the chicken in the oven for at least 3-5 minutes to achieve a crispy skin.
Serving And Enjoying
- Use tongs to transfer the chicken leg quarters to the serving plates carefully.
- Spoon some cooked vegetables and juices from the crock pot over the chicken.
- Encourage everyone to savor each bite of the tender, flavorful chicken.
- The warm juices and tender veggies make the Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe a comforting and satisfying meal.
Here are some Chef’s Tips for making the best Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe
Pat Chicken Dry Before Seasoning
Dry skin helps the seasoning stick better and prevents sogginess.
Use Fresh Herbs for a Bright Flavor
Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley near the end of cooking for a fresh taste boost.
Brown the Chicken First (Optional)
Searing the fresh chicken in a hot pan before placing it in the clean crock pot adds deeper flavor and improves texture.
Layer Vegetables at the Bottom
Place root vegetables, such as fresh potatoes and carrots, under the chicken so they cook evenly and absorb flavors.
Avoid Overcrowding
Allow each chicken piece some space in the crockpot for even cooking.
Check Internal Temperature
You should ensure the chicken will reach an accurate internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy meat.
Add Acid for Balance
A splash of lemon juice or vinegar near the end brightens the dish.
For Crispy Skin, Broil at the End
If you like crispy skin, transfer the cooked chicken to a clean baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes.
Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often
Keeping the lid closed maintains a steady heat and cooks the chicken perfectly.
Use Chicken Broth for More Flavor
Add broth instead of water to create a more decadent sauce.
Nutrition Information For The Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 700mg
- Vitamin A: 45% DV
- Vitamin C: 20% DV
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 15% DV
Note: Nutrition can vary depending on exact ingredients and portion sizes, especially if you add or omit vegetables or skin in this Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe.
Related Recipe Names, Ingredients, And Step-by-Step Guide To preparing Those Recipes For The Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters
Ingredients For The Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp of fresh apple cider vinegar (optional for tanginess)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Guide To Preparing The Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken Leg Quarters
Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with clean paper towels.
- Season both sides with fresh salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
Prepare the Sauce Mix
- In a bowl, mix:
- BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic.
Layer the Slow Cooker
- Place the sliced fresh onions at the bottom of the slow cooker (this adds flavor and prevents sticking).
- Lay the seasoned chicken leg quarters on top of the onions.
Add the Sauce: Pour the BBQ sauce mixture evenly and carefully over the chicken, Cook on LOW or HIGH
Choose one option:
- LOW for 6–7 hours (best for tenderness)
- HIGH for 3–4 hours
- Cook until the chicken is very tender and reaches an estimated internal temperature of about 165°F (74°C).
For a sticky, caramelized skin:
- Place cooked chicken on a baking sheet.
- Brush with extra BBQ sauce.
- Broil for 3–5 minutes, observing.
Serve & Enjoy: Serve with coleslaw, corn, rice, mashed potatoes, or fresh salad.
Crock Pot Garlic Herb Chicken Leg Quarters
Ingredients For The Crock Pot Garlic Herb Chicken Leg Quarters
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 6 fresh cloves of garlic, minced (or 2 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp paprika (optional for color)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for freshness)
Step-by-Step Guide To Preparing The Crock Pot Garlic Herb Chicken Leg Quarters
Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry.
- Mix: salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, thyme, rosemary, paprika.
- Rub this attractive seasoning mixture all over the chicken leg quarters.
Prepare the Garlic Herb Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine Olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, and lemon juice (optional).
- Brush or rub this mixture over the chicken.
Layer the Crock Pot
- Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the Crock Pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth or water.
- Lay the seasoned chicken leg quarters on top.
Slow Cook
- Choose one option: LOW for 6–7 hours (tender and juicy), HIGH for 3–4 hours
- Cook carefully until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Optional: Crisp the Skin
For a golden, slightly crispy finish: Place the cooked fresh chicken on a baking sheet, Brush with a bit of fresh butter or olive oil, and Broil 3–5 minutes, watching closely.
Serve & Enjoy: Pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or salad.
Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters with Vegetables
Ingredients For The Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters with Vegetables
For the Chicken
- 2–4 chicken leg quarters
- 1 ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Vegetables
- 3–4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 onion, cut into large pieces
- 4–5 garlic cloves
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- Optional: 1 cup green beans or peas
- Salt & pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp soy sauce for richer flavor
Step-by-Step Guide To Preparing The Instant Pot Chicken Leg Quarters with Vegetables
Season the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix salt, fresh pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
- Now, rub the seasoning all over the chicken leg quarters.
Sauté the Chicken
- Turn the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add oil/butter.
- Place the chicken leg quarters, skin-side down, and brown for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Prepare the Vegetables
- Add onions and fresh garlic to the pot, and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in 1 cup of fresh chicken broth to deglaze (scrape up browned bits for flavor).
- Add potatoes and carrots (and other veggies if using).
- Sprinkle a little salt & pepper.
Add Chicken Back
- Place a trivet or lay the chicken directly over the vegetables.
- Add lemon juice or bay leaf if desired.
Pressure Cook
- Close the lid and carefully set the valve to Sealing.
- Cook on High Pressure for 12–14 minutes (depending on chicken size).
- Natural release for 5 minutes, and then quick release.
Optional Crisping: If you want crispy skin, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet, and Broil in the oven for 3–5 minutes until golden.
Serve
- Plate the chicken with soft, flavorful vegetables and spoon broth over the top.
- Enjoy a juicy, delicious one-pot meal!
Crock Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken Leg Quarters
Ingredients For The Crock Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken Leg Quarters
For the Chicken
- 2–4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup lemon juice (fresh preferred)
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 4–5 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for balanced flavor)
- 1 lemon, sliced (for layering on top)
Step-by-Step Guide For The Crock Pot Lemon Pepper Chicken Leg Quarters
Season the Chicken
- Pat chicken leg quarters dry.
- Rub with olive oil/butter.
- Mix lemon pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Coat the chicken evenly with this seasoning.
Prepare the Crock Pot
- Add garlic cloves to the bottom.
- Pour in lemon juice and chicken broth.
- Add a few lemon slices over the bottom for extra aroma.
Add Chicken
- Place the seasoned fresh chicken leg quarters in the Crock Pot, skin-side up.
- Add the remaining fresh lemon slices on top of the chicken.
Slow Cook
- Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours.
- Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours.
Optional Crispy Skin: For golden, crispy skin, transfer cooked chicken to a baking sheet, and bake for 3–5 minutes until the skin turns crisp.
Serve: Serve with Steamed vegetables, Rice, Mashed potatoes, Roasted potatoes.
FAQs for the Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe
Can I freeze the Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe leftovers?
Ans: Yes, fresh leftover chicken can be frozen for up to a minimum of 3 months.
Can I cook this recipe without vegetables?
Ans: Yes, but vegetables add flavour and nutrition.
What if I don’t have a crock pot?
Ans: You can also bake the freshly seasoned chicken in the oven at a minimum of 375°F for 45-50 minutes.
Can I use boneless fresh chicken thighs instead of leg quarters?
Ans: Yes, adjust the cooking time to 3-4 hours on low for this Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe.
How do I keep the chicken skin crispy?
Ans: Broil the cooked chicken carefully for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Conclusion
The Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe is absolutely ideal for busy individuals who want a delicious and easy meal without fuss. The slow cooking process of the delightful Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe makes the chicken tender and juicy, while the vegetables absorb all the flavours. I love how little effort it takes to prepare this Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe; it always turns out great. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, the Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe is a reliable, tasty choice that fills your home with wonderful aromas. Try this Crock Pot Chicken Leg Quarter Recipe, and you’ll have a new favourite!
