Growing up in a family of food lovers, I have always been surrounded by delicious and unique dishes. However, one recipe that has always stood out to me is Smoked Leg Quarters with Grilled Avocado, Scallion, and Red Onion. This dish holds a special place in my heart as it was one of the first recipes I learned to cook with my grandmother. The combination of smoky flavors, creamy avocado, and tangy onions creates a mouth-watering dish that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, I will share with you the recipe for this flavorful dish and why it deserves a spot on your table.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this recipe stands out and has become a family favorite. Firstly, the combination of smoked leg quarters and grilled avocado creates a unique and delicious flavor profile. The smokiness from the meat pairs perfectly with the creamy and slightly charred avocado. Secondly, the addition of grilled scallions and red onions adds a tangy and slightly sweet element to the dish, balancing out the flavors. Lastly, this recipe is incredibly versatile and can be served as a main dish or as a side dish to complement other grilled meats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves 4 people and has a prep time of 15 minutes and a cook time of 45 minutes.
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 ripe avocados
- 4 scallions
- 1 red onion
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken leg quarters with the spice mixture on both sides.
4. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. While the chicken is cooking, slice the avocados in half and remove the pits.
6. Brush the avocado halves with olive oil and place them on the grill, cut side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until grill marks appear.
7. Cut the scallions and red onion into thin slices and place them on the grill for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly charred.
8. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
9. Serve the chicken with the grilled avocado, scallions, and red onion on top.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure to brush the chicken with the spice mixture evenly to ensure maximum flavor.
- For a smokier flavor, you can use a smoker instead of a grill.
- If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 35-40 minutes.
- To prevent the avocado from sticking to the grill, make sure to brush it with oil before placing it on the grill.
- For a spicier kick, you can add some cayenne pepper to the spice mixture.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or grilled vegetables.
- You can also serve it with some rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
- For a complete BBQ experience, serve this dish with some corn on the cob and baked beans.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts instead of leg quarters. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the avocado, scallions, and red onion ahead of time. Just grill everything when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I use frozen avocado for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use fresh avocado for this recipe as frozen avocado may become mushy when grilled.
Q: Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?
A: Yes, you can use a gas grill for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the heat accordingly.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky flavors, creamy avocado, and tangy onions creates a unique and mouth-watering dish that will impress your family and friends. It’s also a great way to switch up your usual BBQ menu and add some variety. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional BBQ dishes as it uses minimal oil and is packed with protein and healthy fats from the avocado. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your household.
Your Turn
I hope you give this Smoked Leg Quarters with Grilled Avocado, Scallion, and Red Onion recipe a try and enjoy it as much as my family does. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and toppings to make it your own. And if you have any suggestions or variations, I would love to hear them in the comments below. Happy grilling!
Smoked Leg Quarters with Grilled Avocado, Scallion, and Red Onion
Ingredients
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 4 scallions, trimmed
- 1 red onion, cut into thick slices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C).
- Rub the chicken leg quarters with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the leg quarters in the smoker and smoke for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the chicken is smoking, preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- Grill the avocado halves, scallions, and red onion slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until grill marks appear and they are slightly softened.
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the smoked leg quarters topped with the grilled avocado, scallions, and red onion, with lime wedges on the side.
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