Get ready to cozy up with these 20 mouth-watering creamy chicken leg quarter casserole recipes that will become your new go-to comfort food staple. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting, or a little spicier and adventurous, we’ve got you covered. From cheesy bacon and garlic parmesan to Thai coconut curry and buffalo chicken mac and cheese, these creamy casseroles are sure to satisfy your cravings.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite recipes that feature the star of the show: chicken leg quarters. These versatile pieces of poultry can be cooked in a variety of ways, from baked to slow-cooked, and paired with a range of flavors and ingredients. So grab a glass of your favorite beverage, settle in, and get ready to dive into the world of creamy comfort food.
Stay tuned for our top 20 recipes that will make you wonder how you ever lived without them!
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken leg quarters. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 package of frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/2 cup of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine peas and carrots, cheese, bacon, and cream of chicken soup.
3. Add the chicken leg quarters to the mixture and toss until they’re fully coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with milk.
5. Sprinkle paprika and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
A flavorful and aromatic twist on classic chicken leg quarters, this recipe combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and breadcrumbs.
3. Season chicken leg quarters with salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle garlic-breadcrumb mixture evenly over each quarter.
5. Top each quarter with grated parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, browning slightly on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting casserole, featuring tender chicken leg quarters smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with golden-brown breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Arrange the chicken leg quarters in a 9×13-inch baking dish; spoon the mushroom mixture over the top.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Chicken Leg Quarter Hot Dish
Get ready for a bold and flavorful twist on traditional comfort food! This Spicy Cajun Chicken Leg Quarter Hot Dish is a hearty, one-pot wonder that combines the spices of Louisiana with the ease of a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned chicken back into the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer pot to preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and return to oven for an additional 5 minutes or until melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A delicious and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and cheese, perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken leg quarters
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g. Ritz or saltines)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken leg quarters until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked chicken leg quarters in the bottom of the dish. Top with the broccoli mixture, then the remaining chicken leg quarters.
6. Pour the cheese mixture over the top and sprinkle with crushed crackers.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herbed Lemon Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic chicken leg quarter bake infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken leg quarters
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken leg quarters in a large baking dish. Pour the lemon mixture over the chicken, making sure they’re all coated evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southwest Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A flavorful and comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this Southwest-inspired dish combines the richness of chicken leg quarters with the bold flavors of the American Southwest.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken leg quarters
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup salsa
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken leg quarters and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the cooked chicken to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, combine the cream of chicken soup and salsa. Stir until smooth.
5. Pour the sauce over the chicken and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Alfredo Chicken Leg Quarter Pasta Bake
A comforting, one-dish meal that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the convenience of chicken leg quarters and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chicken leg quarters to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Chicken Leg Quarter and Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender BBQ chicken leg quarters with creamy mashed potatoes, all topped with a crispy cornflake crust. Perfect for a family dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup cornflakes crumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together potatoes, onion, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
3. Place chicken leg quarters on top of potato mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the chicken.
5. Sprinkle cornflakes crumbs evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
This flavorful and aromatic dish brings together the classic Mediterranean flavors of lemon, garlic, and oregano to create a deliciously moist and tender chicken leg quarter. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken leg quarters to the marinade and mix well.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the chicken in a single layer.
5. Top each chicken leg quarter with a slice of red bell pepper and onion.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach Artichoke Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and chicken for a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups of fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken leg quarters, artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green onions, and lemon zest.
3. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Leg Quarter Mac and Cheese Bake
A creamy, spicy twist on classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines the comfort of a baked pasta dish with the bold flavors of buffalo chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and butter. Mix well to coat.
4. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken mixture, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Stir until well combined.
6. Top with additional shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A flavorful and aromatic casserole that combines the rich taste of Thai coconut curry with succulent chicken leg quarters, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry paste, onion, garlic, and bell peppers.
3. Add chicken leg quarters and toss until coated.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Leg Quarter Hot Dish
A flavorful and comforting one-dish meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to tender chicken leg quarters, while creamy potatoes and sweet carrots provide a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken leg quarters in a large baking dish and brush with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes around the chicken.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Loaded Nacho Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Elevate your comfort food game with this creamy, cheesy, and indulgent baked chicken leg quarter recipe, loaded with all the fixings of a nacho lover’s dream.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup cream cheese softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Nacho toppings (optional): diced tomatoes, jalapeños, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, green chilies, cilantro, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Place chicken leg quarters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken leg quarter.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven, top with remaining cream cheese mixture, and add nacho toppings (if using). Return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole: A hearty, flavorful dish that combines the richness of chicken with the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the chicken to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top each leg quarter with a spoonful of sun-dried tomatoes, an onion slice, and a sprinkle of garlic.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted chicken, this recipe combines the richness of honey and mustard with the convenience of a one-pan bake. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place the chicken leg quarters in a large baking dish lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Chicken Leg Quarter Potato Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the richness of pesto with the comfort of chicken, potatoes, and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top potatoes with chicken leg quarters, leaving some space between each piece.
5. Drizzle pesto over the chicken, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
French Onion Chicken Leg Quarter Bake
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic French Onion Chicken Leg Quarter Bake. With caramelized onions, savory chicken, and a hint of thyme, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken leg quarters
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Place chicken leg quarters on top of the onion mixture in the skillet.
5. Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and top each quarter with grated cheese. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuscan White Bean Chicken Leg Quarter Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of Italy with the ease of a one-dish meal. This Tuscan-inspired recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken leg quarters
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the chicken to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cannellini beans, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 creamy chicken leg quarter casserole comfort recipes! From cheesy bacon and garlicky parmesan to spicy Cajun and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, there’s something for every taste. These hearty casseroles are perfect for a chilly night in, family dinner, or potluck gathering. With flavors ranging from broccoli cheese and herbed lemon to buffalo chicken mac and cheese, you’ll find a new favorite among these comforting recipes. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort food or international twists, this collection has got you covered.
