Ingredients:

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters (approx. 3 lbs)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for potatoes)
  • 1 pinch salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Position your oven rack in the center. Note: This ensures the heat is balanced between the top and bottom of the pan.
  2. Dry the chicken thoroughly. Use paper towels to pat every inch of the skin until it feels tacky and bone dry. Note: Any lingering moisture will turn into steam, preventing the skin from crisping.
  3. Mix the dry rub. In a small bowl, whisk together the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and dried oregano.
  4. Season the meat. Brush the chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then rub the spice blend generously under the skin and all over the exterior.
  5. Prepare the potatoes. Toss the halved baby potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl.
  6. Arrange the pan. Spread the potatoes across the bottom of a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
  7. Set the rack. Place the wire cooling rack directly over the potatoes and arrange the chicken quarters on top, skin side up.
  8. Roast the chicken. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the skin is golden, dark, and crackling.
  9. Check the temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temp has reached 175°F (79°C). Note: Dark meat is best at this higher temp as it allows the connective tissue to fully break down.
  10. Rest the meat. Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute so they do not run out when you cut into it. Pulled Chicken in a Crock Pot with BBQ Sauce: Smoke-Kissed Masterpiece — Make Pulled Chicken in a Crock Pot with BBQ Sauce for a smoke-kissed masterpi...Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce in 20 Min — Master easy Chicken Lettuce Wraps with our Hoisin Peanut Chicken Lettuce Wrap...Franks Buffalo Chicken Dip: Easy 6-Ingredient Classic — Master the ultimate franks buffalo chicken dip with this 6-ingredient recipe.... $img_2$