Southern BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce

Name: Southern BBQ Chicken with Homemade Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp mustard; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1.5 kg chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)

70 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Juicy Southern BBQ Chicken marinated in a zesty homemade sauce, perfect for grilling.

Prep

20 min

Cook

40 min

Total

70 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Southern BBQ Chicken is a staple of Southern cuisine, known for its tangy and sweet flavours that are perfect for any barbecue gathering. This recipe combines a homemade sauce with traditional grilling techniques to create a dish that's both delicious and easy to prepare. This version of Southern BBQ Chicken focuses on achieving the perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness, thanks to a carefully crafted marinade. It's ideal for those who love to grill and are looking for a new, flavour-packed recipe to impress their family and friends.

Instructions

Prepare the marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.

Pro tip: Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or vinegar to taste.

Marinate the chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Pro tip: Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even marinating.

Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 200°C (400°F).

Pro tip: Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer for accurate temperature readings.

Baste with remaining sauce

During the last 5 minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with any remaining marinade for extra flavour.

Pro tip: Be careful not to cross-contaminate; ensure the sauce used for basting isn't reused on cooked chicken.

Let it rest

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken.

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Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours for maximum flavour.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.
Let the chicken rest before serving for juicier meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Southern BBQ Chicken different?

Southern BBQ Chicken is known for its tangy, sweet, and smoky flavours, achieved through a specific blend of spices and sauces.

How long should I marinate Southern BBQ Chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is recommended for maximum flavour.

What temperature should Southern BBQ Chicken be cooked to?

Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

Can I make Southern BBQ Chicken in the oven?

Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature is 74°C (165°F).

How many calories are in a serving of Southern BBQ Chicken?

A serving of Southern BBQ Chicken contains approximately 450 calories.

Can I freeze Southern BBQ Chicken?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Southern BBQ Chicken with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread, or pair it with a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. It can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. For a perfect barbecue experience, pair the chicken with a refreshing iced tea or a cold beer. Leftovers make for great sandwiches or can be added to salads for a quick lunch option.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

40g

Protein

25g

Fat

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