Split chicken leg quarters, also known as chicken hindquarters, are a popular and affordable chicken cut. They consist of the thigh and drumstick portions that have been removed from the chicken carcass and separated at the joint.
What is included in a split chicken leg quarter?
A split chicken leg quarter contains:
- The drumstick – This is the lower portion of the chicken leg. It contains the calf muscle and ends in the foot.
- The thigh – This is the upper part of the leg. It contains the femur bone and several large muscles like the quadriceps.
When these two sections are separated at the knee joint, you have a split chicken leg quarter. Skin, fat, cartilage and bone are left intact in a whole leg quarter.
Why are split chicken quarters popular?
There are several reasons why split chicken leg quarters are a popular chicken choice:
- Affordable price – Chicken leg quarters cost less per pound than chicken breasts or wings. This makes them an economical protein choice for families on a budget.
- Good flavor – The thigh contains fat and connective tissue that keeps the meat moist and flavorful when cooked. Many people find dark chicken meat more flavorful than white breast meat.
- Easy to cook – Chicken leg quarters can be roasted or braised whole and make a simple one-pan dinner. Their rich flavor also stands up well to bold seasonings and sauces.
- Lots of meat – A leg quarter contains a good amount of meat compared to other chicken cuts. Each quarter portion provides a substantial serving.
How are split chicken leg quarters used?
There are endless ways that these versatile chicken quarters can be prepared:
- Baked, grilled or roasted plain, seasoned with herbs or spices
- Braised or simmered into stews, curries, pasta sauces
- Fried into southern-style chicken or chicken nuggets
- Used in soups, tacos, salad, sandwiches and more
Some popular global recipes using split chicken leg quarters include:
- Chicken tikka masala
- Jerk chicken
- Chicken adobo
- Chicken paprikash
- Moroccan chicken tagine
- Crispy baked chicken legs
- Chicken cacciatore
- Nashville hot chicken
- Chicken and dumplings
- Chicken fricassee
Are there any downsides to split chicken leg quarters?
There are a few potential downsides to consider:
- Can take longer to cook than chicken breasts since dark meat takes longer to cook through.
- More calories and fat per serving compared to chicken breast (but also more nutrients).
- Bones and cartilage require more attention during eating.
- Skin and fat may need trimming for some recipes and diets.
How to buy and store split chicken leg quarters
When shopping for split chicken leg quarters:
- Look for quarters with smooth, intact skin and no tears or bruises.
- Avoid quarters with bones protruding through the skin.
- Choose quarters that feel heavy for their size.
- Opt for quarters that have been minimally handled and kept at proper temperature.
For storage:
- Store leg quarters in the coldest part of the refrigerator if using within 2 days.
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for 3-4 months if not using right away.
- Pat dry and wrap individually in foil or plastic wrap for easy thawing later on.
Nutrition facts for split chicken leg quarters
Here are the nutrition facts for a 6oz chicken leg quarter, with skin:
| Calories | 331 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 24g |
| Saturated fat | 7g |
| Protein | 26g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 137mg |
| Sodium | 198mg |
Chicken leg quarters provide significant amounts of protein, B vitamins like niacin, minerals like selenium and phosphorus, and various antioxidants.
Conclusion
Split chicken leg quarters are an extremely versatile, budget-friendly cut of chicken. Their rich flavor and hearty texture make them ideal for roasting, braising, stewing, and more. With some simple prep and storage tips, split leg quarters can be an easy, nutritious addition to many meals.