Crockpot chicken leg quarters are a simple, budget-friendly meal that packs great flavor with very little effort. Lightly oil and season the leg quarters, place them in the slow cooker, and let low heat do the work. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, relaxed Sunday dinners, or meal prep. Instructions for preparing the same dish in an Instant Pot are included as well.
Ingredients For Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters
- Chicken leg quarters (skin-on, bone-in)
- Oil (about 1 tablespoon)
- Seasonings: dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper
- Cooking spray for the slow cooker
How To Make Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters
Slow Cooker
- Combine the dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the chicken leg quarters with oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken. Toss or rub until each piece is evenly coated.
- Spray the slow cooker insert with cooking spray. Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker; overlapping is fine.
- Cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours or on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, until the meat is tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Instant Pot
- Pour 1 cup of broth into the Instant Pot.
- Mix the seasonings in a small bowl. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot. If you don’t have a trivet, the chicken can sit directly in the broth.
- Brush the chicken with oil, then coat with the seasoning mixture. Arrange the chicken on the trivet (or in the broth).
- Close the lid and set the valve to seal. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
FAQs & Tips
What are chicken leg quarters?
Chicken leg quarters include the drumstick, thigh, and a small portion of the back. This is dark meat, which is juicier and often more affordable than white meat like breasts. They are typically sold skin-on and bone-in.
Can you use a different seasoning?
Yes. Swap in any favorite seasoning blend—store-bought or homemade—to suit your taste.
Will the skin be crispy?
The slow cooker and Instant Pot do not produce crispy skin. To crisp the skin, transfer the cooked leg quarters to a baking sheet and broil for 3 to 5 minutes until browned and crisped.
How do you store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.
What size slow cooker did you use?
A 6-quart slow cooker or a standard Instant Pot works well for this recipe, fitting four leg quarters comfortably.
Chicken Recipes
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Bone-In Breasts
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Legs
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Thighs
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Buffalo Chicken Wings
Crockpot Chicken Leg Quarters
Crockpot chicken leg quarters are a straightforward, economical dish that yields tender, flavorful chicken with minimal prep. The slow cooker transforms this inexpensive cut into a satisfying meal suitable for weeknights, gatherings, or batch cooking. Instant Pot instructions are provided for a faster option.
- Author: Shannon Epstein
- Prep Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (pressure time for Instant Pot)
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters (about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup broth (for the Instant Pot only)
Instructions
Slow Cooker
- Mix the seasonings in a small bowl. Coat the chicken with oil, then rub in the seasonings until evenly covered.
- Spray the slow cooker with cooking spray and add the chicken. Overlapping is acceptable.
- Cook on HIGH for 3–4 hours or LOW for 6–8 hours, until cooked through.
Instant Pot
- Pour 1 cup of broth into the Instant Pot.
- Place the trivet inside. If you don’t have a trivet, the chicken can sit in the broth.
- Coat the chicken with oil and seasonings, then place on the trivet.
- Seal and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release remaining pressure.
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