Southern Barbecued Chicken Recipe: Grill, Broiler, or Oven Method
This Southern Barbecued Chicken recipe, cherished for its rich flavors and delectable sauce, hails from a delightful booklet published by Domino Sugar, which showcases the versatile use of their brownulated sugar. This particular barbecue sauce stands out due to its unique non-tomato base, a traditional Southern twist that elevates any chicken dish to a whole new level of taste. Whether you choose to grill, broil, or bake your chicken, this recipe promises a mouthwatering experience that your family and friends will adore. Please note that the timing provided does not include marinating; rather, it focuses on the cooking and preparation phases.
Recipe Overview
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Brownulated sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Butter | 1/4 cup |
| Margarine | 1/4 cup |
| Cider vinegar | 1/4 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon | 1, juiced |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic clove | 1, minced |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Chicken pieces | 3-4 pieces (cut up) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 647.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 42.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 185.8 mg |
| Sodium | 449.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 19.5 g |
| Protein | 39.1 g |
Recipe Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce:
Begin by gathering all the ingredients for the barbecue sauce except for the cornstarch. In a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag, combine the brownulated sugar, butter, margarine, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic clove. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, creating a deliciously sweet and tangy marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken pieces and place them into the dish with the marinade or transfer them into the plastic bag, ensuring that every piece of chicken is generously coated with the marinade. Seal the dish or bag securely, then refrigerate for several hours or, for best results, allow the chicken to marinate overnight. This marinating step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.
3. Cook the Sauce:
When you are ready to cook the chicken, remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Pour the marinade into a saucepan and sprinkle in the tablespoon of cornstarch. Place the saucepan over medium to high heat, stirring frequently to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, which should take approximately 5-10 minutes.
4. Grill, Broil, or Bake the Chicken:
Depending on your cooking method of choice, the next steps will vary:
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Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the chicken on the grill, positioning it about four inches from the heat source. Grill for approximately 10-15 minutes on each side, basting frequently with the sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
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Broiling: Preheat your broiler. Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a broiler pan and broil for about 10-15 minutes per side, basting often with the sauce, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a beautiful caramelized exterior.
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Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the chicken in a baking dish, ensuring that the pieces are not overcrowded. Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, basting frequently with the sauce throughout the cooking process. Once the chicken is cooked through, you can place it briefly under the broiler for a final touch to achieve that lovely glaze and char.
5. Serve:
Once your chicken has been cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the Southern Barbecued Chicken with any remaining sauce on the side, allowing your guests to add as much or as little as they like. This dish pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans, making it perfect for family gatherings, summer cookouts, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a taste of the South.
Cooking Tips
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If you don’t have brownulated sugar on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing 4 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons of packed brown sugar with 2 teaspoons of granulated white sugar. This blend will work perfectly in the sauce.
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Feel free to experiment with different types of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, for a richer flavor and juicier texture.
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For an added depth of flavor, consider incorporating spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper into the marinade.
This Southern Barbecued Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to cook it in a way that best suits your kitchen setup and taste preferences. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a comforting family dinner, this recipe will surely become a beloved favorite in your household. Enjoy!
