Chicken Marylands is a versatile cut of chicken that includes the leg and thigh attached. It is known as whole chicken leg quarters in the US and chicken legs in the UK. In Australia, it’s favourite for its juiciness, rich flavour, and affordability. This bone-in cut retains moisture and is perfect for roasting, frying, or slow cooking.

Historically, Marylands Fried Chicken hails from Maryland’s Eastern Shore, a hallmark of Southern cuisine. Often served with gravy and cakes, it carries a unique charm. Marinated with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, it’s fried until the skin becomes irresistibly crispy. This dish’s authentic flavours are a timeless addition to holiday feasts and weeknight meals.

What Makes Chicken Marylands Special?

Chicken Maryland stands out for its flavorful meat and versatility. This cut remains tender and juicy during cooking, unlike breast meat, which can dry out. Its affordability and flavour make it ideal for traditional and modern recipes.

Chicken Cut Names	Australia	US	UK
Chicken Maryland	Chicken Maryland	Chicken leg quarters	Chicken legs
Chicken Drumsticks	Chicken drumsticks	Chicken legs/drumsticks	Chicken drumsticks

Ingredients for Garlic Chicken Marylands

To create the perfect Garlic Chicken Marylands, gather the following:

Chicken Marylands: Bone-in and skin-on for maximum juiciness.
Fresh Thyme and Rosemary: Adds aromatic depth. Substitute with dried herbs if necessary.
Unsalted Butter: Offers better salt control.
Garlic: Always use fresh for the boldest flavour. Avoid jarred garlic.
White Wine: Enhances moisture and flavour. Substitute with low-sodium chicken broth or water.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple yet essential.
Optional: Harissa paste for a spicy twist.
Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, potato gratin, sautéed green beans, or roasted vegetables.

Frying Maryland Chicken

For those who prefer frying over roasting, here’s a classic approach to Maryland Fried Chicken:

The Coating

Season flour with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For a bold flavour kick, add cayenne or Old Bay seasoning.
Dip the chicken in beaten egg for extra crunch, then dredge it in the flour mixture.

The Frying Process

Heat a shallow layer of oil in a skillet. Fry the chicken over medium heat until golden brown on all sides.
Cover the skillet briefly to create steam, ensuring even cooking.
Transfer the cooked chicken to a preheated oven to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.

Making the Gravy

Use the pan’s drippings. Melt butter, whisk in raw flour, and cook until light brown.
Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.

How to Cook Chicken Maryland in the Oven

Cooking Chicken Maryland in the oven is simple, yet it guarantees crispy skin and juicy meat. Follow these steps to master the technique:

Step 1: Preparing the Garlic Butter Mixture

Combine softened butter with finely grated garlic, chopped herbs, and a pinch of salt. Press or microplane the garlic for optimal texture.
Using a spoon, loosen the skin of the chicken and gently insert the butter mixture underneath. This step ensures that the meat is infused with rich flavours during cooking.

Step 2: Roasting the Chicken

How long does it take to cook Chicken Maryland in the oven?Start by placing the chicken skin-side up in a roasting pan. Pour a white wine or broth splash into the pan to keep the chicken moist.
Roast at 220°C (425°F) for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 200°C (400°F) and continue roasting for 40 minutes, making the total cooking time for Chicken Maryland in the oven approximately 50 minutes.
Baste the chicken with pan juices at the 30- and 40-minute marks to enhance flavour.

Step 3: Let It Rest

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This step allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring moist, tender meat.

How Long to Cook Chicken Maryland in the Oven?

When roasting Garlic Chicken Marylands, the total cooking time is around 50 minutes at 200°C (400°F) after an initial high-heat roast for 10 minutes at 220°C (425°F). Adjust the time slightly depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Chicken Marylands

Enhance your meal with these delicious sides:

Potato Gratin or Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfect comfort food pairings.
Lemon Potato Salad: Adds freshness and zest.
Steamed Vegetables: Peas, carrots, or broccoli drizzled with French dressing.
Rustic Bread: Ideal for mopping up the flavorful sauce.

Variations and Styles of Chicken Marylands

Baked Chicken with Tarragon and Cream: A creamy, keto-friendly option for indulgence.
Crunchy Chicken Marylands: Coated with crushed corn chips for an irresistible crunch.
Jerk Chicken Marylands: Packed with bold Caribbean spices.
Char-grilled chicken with Moroccan Coleslaw: A smoky, flavorful twist.
Slow-Cooked Chicken Maryland Stew: A hearty, budget-friendly dish with tender chicken and mushrooms.
Chicken Inasal: A Filipino-inspired grilled dish featuring turmeric and paprika.
Texan Grilled Chicken with Cowboy Beans: A robust, protein-packed meal.
Quince-Glazed Chicken: A winter warmer with sweet and savoury notes.

Conclusion

Garlic Chicken Marylands is a culinary treasure, blending traditional flavours with modern versatility. Whether roasted or fried, this dish promises tender meat, crispy skin, and an unforgettable dining experience. With its rich history, practical cooking tips, and versatile variations, this article ensures you can master this timeless recipe.

FAQs

What is the Maryland cut on a chicken?

It includes the leg and thigh attached. It’s prized for its juiciness and flavour.

Why is it called Maryland Chicken?

The name comes from Maryland, USA, where the dish originated. It’s a classic Southern recipe featuring fried chicken and gravy.

How long does it take to cook Chicken Maryland in the oven?

Approximately 50 minutes at 200°C (400°F) after a 10-minute high-heat roast.

How do you cook Chicken Maryland in the oven?

Roast the chicken skin-side up, baste with pan juices, and let it rest before serving.

What’s the difference between chicken thighs and Maryland?

A chicken thigh is a minor cut, while Maryland includes thighs and drumsticks.

Is Chicken Marylands healthy?

When prepared with minimal oil and paired with nutrient-rich sides, they are a healthy and satisfying meal.

Chicken Marylands

Chicken Marylands is a flavorful and versatile cut, perfect for roasting or frying. This article provides a detailed recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Marylands, featuring juicy, tender meat and crispy skin. It includes step-by-step instructions, tips for frying, and a rich gravy recipe. With serving ideas, variations like jerk or baked styles, and answers to FAQs, this guide ensures you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality meal at home.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Rest Time: 10

Total Time 1 5

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories 670 kcal

Equipment

Roasting Pan: For roasting the chicken in the oven.
Garlic Press or Microplane:To finely grate or press garlic for the garlic butter mixture.
Spoon: To loosen the skin of the chicken and insert the garlic butter mixture underneath.
Basting Brush or Spoon: To baste the chicken with pan juices during roasting.
Cast Iron Skillet or Frying Pan: For frying the chicken (if opting for the fried version).
Mixing Bowl: To combine ingredients for the garlic butter mixture or flour coating.
Tongs: To flip the chicken while frying.
Whisk: For making the gravy.
Saucepan or Small Pan: To prepare the gravy using drippings.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurement of ingredients like butter, wine, and seasonings.
Oven Thermometer (Optional): To ensure the oven maintains the correct temperature.
Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping fresh herbs or any preparation work.
Resting Rack or Plate: To let the chicken rest after roasting or frying.

Ingredients

4 pieces (~1.5 kg/3 lb) chicken marylands (US: leg quarters) or 8 bone-in, skin-on thighs (Note 1)
1/2 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/3 cup chardonnay or other dry white wine (sub low-sodium chicken stock/broth)

Herb & garlic butter:

100g/7 tbsp unsalted butter , softened
4 garlic cloves , minced using a garlic press (Note 2)
2 tsp fresh rosemary leaves , finely chopped (Note 3 for dried)
2 tsp thyme leaves , finely chopped (Note 3 for dried)
3/4 tsp cooking/kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C/425°F (200°C fan).
Prepare Garlic Butter: Mix herb and garlic butter ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Butter Chicken: Gently loosen the skin of the chicken using a spoon. Spread 80% of the butter under the skin, 5% on the underside, and the remainder over the skin. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt.
Set Up for Roasting: Place the chicken skin-side up in a roasting pan and pour wine around it.
Roast Chicken: Roast at 220°C/425°F for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 200°C/400°F (180°C fan) and roast for an additional 40 minutes, basting every 10 minutes from the 20-minute mark.
Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Serve with the pan juices as a garlic-herb sauce.

Savory and Satisfying: The Chicken Marylands Recipe You’ll Crave