Ingredients:

  • 4 large chicken leg quarters (approx. 3-4 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Line your baking sheet with foil and set the wire rack on top. Note: This prevents the foil from bubbling or sticking to the chicken.
  2. Pat the chicken skin bone dry using paper towels. until no moisture remains on the surface.
  3. Whisk olive oil, kosher salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano in a small bowl. Note: Stir until it becomes a thick, reddish paste.
  4. Rub the spice paste over the chicken. Ensure you lift the skin and rub the paste directly onto the thigh meat for deeper flavor.
  5. Set the chicken on the counter for 15 minutes. Note: This takes the chill off, ensuring the meat cooks evenly.
  6. Place the leg quarters on the rack, skin side up.
  7. Bake in the center of the oven for 40-45 minutes until the skin is deeply browned and crackling.
  8. Use your thermometer to check that the thickest part of the thigh has reached 175°F (79°C).
  9. Remove from the oven and let the meat rest for 5-10 minutes. until the juices settle back into the fibers.