Everyone can make chicken wings for their backyard summer do or family camping trip, but if you want to be a little more adventurous (and what outdoor lover doesn’t love adventure!) switch out boring old chicken wings these Red Chili and Honey Quail Legs with Ranch Dip. They’re the perfect appetizer to elevate any gathering from simple to simply unforgettable!

Ingredients for Red Chili and Honey Quail Legs With Ranch Dip

For the honey quail legs…

quail legs
honey
chili peppers
rice vinegar
soy sauce
scallions
olive oil
salt and pepper

For the ranch dip…

buttermilk
mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
white vinegar
herbs and spices, including parsley, chives, dill, paprika and cayenne pepper

Along the West Coast, the common species of quail is the California quail. This regal bird is a prized find for both birdwatchers and hunters alike. I’m fortunate that a covery as large as 30 quail frequents the manzanita bushes of my backyard on a daily basis.

While I love to watch the family of quail that live on the hillside behind the house, they also are super yummy to eat. Quail has more of a gamey flavor than chicken. While some chefs consider quail to have a delicate flavor that is not overpowered, I find the taste to complement Asian seasoning well, including a bit of heat and spice.

Honey Chili Quail Legs with Homemade Ranch Dip

Next to the backyard quail (quite literally), I have been working on growing a small garden. Despite the super hot weather in the West, the vegetables – tomatoes, lettuce, herbs, squash, and peppers- are taking off.

The heat in these red peppers is the perfect complement to the sweetness of the sauce, which is made with local farmer’s market honey.

There is nothing more satisfying than growing and foraging for your own food. The secret to growing peppers – lots of sun and lots of water.

Peppers in BWE's garden — Pepper plants in the backyard garden.

FAQs

Where can I purchase quail legs?
If you don’t see them at your local market, look to the Internet for quality purveyors. Some of my favorites include Broken Arrow Ranch, Manchester Farm, and Marx Food.
What are some tips for grilling quail?
Drain any excess marinade off the quail legs, but don’t worry about clinging spices—those are your tickets to flavor town. Grill the legs on each side for about 3-4 minutes. They’re small and will cook quickly, so don’t wander off to admire the stars just yet!

Ta-da! Just like that, you’ve got a quail leg recipe that will dazzle at your next outdoor gathering. Not only are these little beauties packed with flavor, but they’re also a fun and elegant alternative to the typical grilled fare. Ready to rise to the occasion and surprise your guests with your culinary prowess?

Remember, entertaining is not just about the food but the memories created around the dining table. So fire up that grill, laugh abundantly, feast gloriously, and always keep it sizzling with flair and flavor. Happy grilling, happy entertaining!

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