Georgia Sweet Tea Brined Chicken on the Arteflame

Introduction

Experience the taste of the South with this Georgia Sweet Tea Brined Chicken. Marinated in sweet tea for a touch of Southern charm, this grilled chicken boasts a rich, smoky flavor with a beautifully caramelized surface. Utilizing the Arteflame grill, we’ll sear the meat at 1,000°F for a perfect crust before finishing it to juicy perfection on the surrounding griddle cooktop.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 cups sweet tea
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

1. In a large bowl, combine sweet tea, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged.
3. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours to let the flavors infuse.

Step 2: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil onto three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins inside the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to fully heat up, ensuring the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season with black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the chicken skin-side down on the center grill grate for 1-2 minutes per side to create a crispy sear.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Griddle

1. Move the seared chicken to the flat cooktop, placing it closer to the center for higher heat or further out for a slower finish.
2. Cook, flipping occasionally, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
3. Remove from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 145°F, letting it rest and finish cooking off the heat.
4. Brush with melted butter for extra flavor.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges.
2. Pair with your favorite Southern sides for a complete meal.

Tips

• For maximum juiciness, always let the meat rest after grilling.
• Brine overnight for an even deeper sweet tea flavor.
• Use firewood such as oak or hickory for additional smokiness.

Variations

1. Spicy Southern: Add 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
2. Citrus Infused: Include fresh lime and orange juice in the brine for a citrusy twist.
3. Maple Glazed: Brush with maple syrup during the last few minutes of grilling.
4. Herbaceous Delight: Add fresh rosemary and thyme to the brine for an herbaceous flavor.
5. Smoky BBQ: Baste with your favorite barbecue sauce before removing from the grill.

Conclusion

This Georgia Sweet Tea Brined Chicken is a true celebration of Southern flavors, made even better with the Arteflame grill. The high-heat sear locks in juices, while slow cooking on the griddle ensures tender, succulent meat. Try it for your next gathering and savor the rich taste of tradition.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, the perfect Southern side.
• Buttermilk Biscuits: Soft, buttery, and ideal for soaking up juices.
• Coleslaw: A crisp contrast to the rich, smoky chicken.
• Peach Cobbler: Classic Georgia dessert to round out the meal.
• Sweet Tea: Complements the brined flavor perfectly.