These chicken hindquarters are generously coated with Korean-style BBQ seasoning, grilled until smoky on a pellet or wood-fired grill, and finished with a brush of homemade sweet chili sauce. If you want to take a break from ordinary grilled chicken, these Sweet Chili Chicken Leg Quarters deliver bold flavor, crispy skin, and juicy meat for a satisfying dinner.
Sweet Chili Chicken Leg Quarters
Dive into this grilled chicken leg quarters recipe with sweet chili sauce — a dependable hit for backyard barbecues or a hearty weeknight meal. The combination of smoky char, savory BBQ rub, and tangy-sweet chili glaze gives each bite a great contrast of flavors and textures.
These bone-in leg quarters stay moist during grilling and are ideal for feeding a crowd. They pair well with light sides like salads, grilled vegetables, or couscous, and they’re high in protein while remaining simple to prepare.
Recipe Ingredients
You likely already have most of the basics on hand. For best results use a favorite BBQ rub and either a store-bought or homemade sweet chili sauce. Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
- Chicken leg quarters (thigh + drumstick)
- 3 tablespoons oil
- Generous amount of BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
- Sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
See all of the chicken recipes for more ideas and side pairings.
How to Make This Recipe
Below is a clear overview of the process so you know what to expect. Follow the full instructions to ensure safe cooking and the best texture.
- Preheat your grill to between 350–400°F (175–205°C). A pellet grill or gas grill works well. Aim for steady, even heat rather than extreme direct flames.
- Pat the leg quarters dry, brush with oil, then coat liberally with the BBQ rub. Be sure to season under the skin where possible for more flavor.
- Place the chicken skin-side up and grill for about 15–20 minutes. Flip and grill an additional 10–20 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching bone) to check doneness; target 165°F (74°C) for safe internal temperature.
- If the chicken is browning too quickly, move it to a cooler zone of the grill. When the meat reaches approximately 150°F, increase the heat briefly or move to direct heat to crisp the skin and finish cooking to 165°F.
- Brush the sweet chili sauce on during the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid burning the sugars; you can also serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
- Remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so juices redistribute.
More easy pellet grill and Traeger-friendly recipes are available for inspiration.
Recipe FAQ
Chicken leg quarters include both the thigh and drumstick — essentially the whole leg section. They are often more affordable than individually sold thighs or drumsticks and are easy to grill as a single piece.
How long does it take to grill chicken leg quarters?
Grilling time typically ranges from 40–55 minutes depending on size and grill temperature. Use a reliable meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165–170°F for safe consumption.
When should I add the sauce?
Apply sweet chili sauce during the final 5 minutes of cooking to prevent burning from the sugar in the glaze. You can also brush sauce on immediately after removing the chicken from the grill or serve extra on the side.
Can I cook this indoors?
Yes. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can roast the leg quarters in the oven at 375–400°F until they reach the proper internal temperature, finishing under a broiler briefly to crisp the skin if desired.
More Grilled Chicken Recipes
- Italian Marinated Grilled Chicken
- Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Korean Grilled Chicken Wings
- Traeger Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
- Honey Balsamic Grilled Chicken Legs
Find additional grilled chicken recipes and side ideas to round out your meal.
More Recipes with Sweet Chili Sauce
- Sweet Chili Shrimp (Blackstone or Traeger)
- Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp
- Bang Bang Sauce variations
Sweet chili sauce works equally well on seafood, pork, and as a dipping sauce for appetizers.
Serve This With
Pair these sweet chili leg quarters with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, couscous, or a creamy slaw. For heartier sides try smoked mac and cheese, grilled dinner rolls, or roasted potatoes. For a lighter plate, a lemony salad or steamed green beans brightens the meal.
Consider a simple dessert like a grilled apple crisp to finish the menu on a warm, homey note.
Sweet Chili Chicken Leg Quarters — Recipe Card
Yield: 8 servings
Rating: 4.6 Stars (14 Reviews)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes (plus variable finish time based on grill and size)
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 8 chicken leg quarters
- 3 tablespoons oil
- Generous amount of seasoning rub (Korean BBQ, togarashi, or your favorite blend)
- Sweet chili sauce for glazing
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to 350–400°F.
- Brush chicken with oil and coat liberally with seasoning rub, including under the skin when possible.
- Grill skin-side up for 15–20 minutes, then flip and grill another 10–20 minutes. When the thickest part of the thigh reaches about 150°F, increase heat briefly to finish until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Brush sweet chili sauce on during the last 5 minutes of cooking or immediately after removing from the grill. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (per serving, estimates)
- Calories: 475
- Total Fat: 23 g (Saturated Fat: 6 g)
- Cholesterol: 328 mg
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Protein: 62 g
Nutrition values are approximate. Consult a nutrition calculator for precise tracking if needed.