Introduction
Grilled BBQ chicken on the Arteflame grill delivers a smoky, caramelized flavor that’s both juicy and tender. Using the unique heat zones of the Arteflame grill, you can achieve the perfect sear while cooking the chicken to perfection with a smoky BBQ glaze.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
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For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
- Light your Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins under firewood. Let the grill heat for about 20 minutes.
- Clean the center grill grate and flat cooktop to prepare for cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the BBQ Sauce
- In a small cast-iron skillet, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Place the skillet on the cooler edge of the Arteflame grill and simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
- Lightly season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
- Place the chicken pieces on the center grill grate over high heat and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms.
- Move the chicken to the flat cooktop, positioning it in a medium-heat zone to continue cooking.
Step 5: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
- Brush the chicken generously with the BBQ sauce, flipping and basting every few minutes to build layers of flavor.
- Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), checking with a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices.
- Serve warm with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Tips
- Charred Flavor: For extra smokiness, let the BBQ sauce caramelize slightly on the chicken by leaving it on the hotter zones briefly.
- Even Cooking: Use similar-sized chicken pieces to ensure even cooking.
- No Burnt Sauce: Apply the BBQ sauce after searing to prevent burning the sugars in the sauce.
Variations
- Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add more cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
- Herbaceous BBQ Chicken: Mix fresh chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary into the sauce.
- Citrus BBQ Chicken: Add fresh lime or orange juice to the sauce for a tangy twist.
- Asian-Inspired BBQ Chicken: Add soy sauce and grated ginger to the BBQ sauce for an Asian flavor profile.
- Sweet BBQ Chicken: Add a touch of maple syrup or extra honey for a sweeter glaze.
Pairings
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve with zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob.
- Potatoes: Pair with grilled potato wedges or a creamy potato salad.
- Salads: Enjoy with a crisp coleslaw or mixed green salad.
- Bread: Serve with warm cornbread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Conclusion
BBQ chicken cooked on the Arteflame grill delivers smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with perfectly caramelized glaze. This easy-to-follow recipe guarantees juicy and flavorful chicken that’s a hit at any gathering.
