Port-A-Pitt BBQ Chicken (Copycat Recipe)
Here’s an authentic take on Northern Indiana’s famous Port-A-Pitt BBQ Chicken. Known for its tender, fall-off-the-bone texture and mouthwatering flavor, this dish is commonly made for fundraisers. The chicken is traditionally cooked in a large, covered grill that moves the chicken between grilling and dipping in the special sauce. The method allows the chicken to develop a rich, smoky flavor while becoming incredibly tender. Although this recipe is a simplified version for home cooks, it’s equally delicious! Additionally, if you make extra, the leftovers freeze wonderfully for quick meals later on. Just thaw and grill with the reserved marinade.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Chicken
- Cuisine: American
- Keywords: Poultry, Meat, Very Low Carbs, < 60 Mins
- Yield: Varies (depending on how many chicken pieces you use)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Vinegar | 1 cup |
| Salt | 2 tablespoons |
| Pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 4 tablespoons |
| Chicken pieces (legs, thighs, etc.) | 6-8 pieces (or more, depending on batch size) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 692.9 kcal |
| Fat | 61.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 30.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 221.8 mg |
| Sodium | 1903.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1.8 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugars | 0.7 g |
| Protein | 31.3 g |
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. | Prepare the sauce: Combine butter, water, vinegar, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. |
| 2. | Marinate the chicken: Place your chicken pieces in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Pour the sauce over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated well. Cover the pan with aluminum foil to lock in the moisture. |
| 3. | Bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the covered roasting pan in the oven and bake for 30-45 minutes. This slow cooking process will tenderize the chicken, allowing it to soak up the rich flavors of the marinade. |
| 4. | Grill for perfection: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the oven and take off the foil. Transfer the chicken to the grill. Grill each piece for about 15 minutes or until browned and slightly charred, turning occasionally. During grilling, dip the chicken pieces into the remaining marinade several times to intensify the flavor. |
| 5. | Serve and enjoy: Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the heat and serve hot. You’ll enjoy tender, juicy BBQ chicken with a rich, tangy flavor. |
Freezing and Reheating Tips
If you want to prepare extra chicken for later, follow these simple steps:
- After baking the chicken, allow it to cool completely.
- Place the cooled chicken pieces in freezer-safe bags, distributing any remaining sauce among the bags. Seal them tightly.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, grill the chicken again for 10-15 minutes, using the thawed marinade to baste the chicken during grilling.
Notes
- The recipe makes plenty of sauce, and you may have some leftovers. Feel free to double or triple the amount of chicken to make more batches, as the sauce is versatile and freezes well.
- For a spicier kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- If you don’t have access to a grill, you can finish the chicken in the oven by uncovering the pan and increasing the temperature to 400°F (204°C) for 10-15 minutes to achieve that golden-brown color.
This copycat recipe is the perfect way to bring the delicious flavor of Port-A-Pitt BBQ Chicken into your home. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or prepping for a week of meals, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, the fact that it freezes well means you can always have a flavorful dinner on hand. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of Northern Indiana right from your own backyard!
