Chicken Leg Quarters for 10 to 100 guests
Standard scenario: adults, average appetites, two or three sides on the table.
| Guests | leg quarters | Raw weight |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10–10 | 9–9 lb |
| 20 | 20–20 | 17.5–17.5 lb |
| 25 | 25–25 | 22–22 lb |
| 50 | 50–50 | 44–44 lb |
| 100 | 100–100 | 88–88 lb |
Why leg quarters math is count math
A leg quarter is a built-in portion: one thigh, one drumstick, about half a pound of rich dark meat after the bone. That’s why quarters are the cheapest, most forgiving way to feed a big crowd from a smoker.
Buying leg quarters: what to look for
Quarters are routinely the cheapest chicken in the store, often in 10-lb bags. Trim excess back skin and any spine sections left by the saw. Dark meat shrugs off the smoker’s swings — the beginner-proof crowd cut.
Frequently asked questions
How many leg quarters per person?
1–1 per adult alongside sides, 1.5–2 when leg quarters carry the meal; kids about half. One quarter per adult with sides is the caterer’s standard; big appetites take two. Quarters run ¾–1 lb each.
How many leg quarters for 20 people?
20–20 leg quarters for 20 adults with sides, roughly 17.5–17.5 lb raw.
Why plan leg quarters by count instead of pounds?
A leg quarter is a built-in portion: one thigh, one drumstick, about half a pound of rich dark meat after the bone. That’s why quarters are the cheapest, most forgiving way to feed a big crowd from a smoker.
What internal temperature is leg quarters safe at?
Poultry is safe at 165°F. Doneness details and hour-per-pound charts are on the chicken leg quarters cook-time page.