Alabama Sweet Tea Glazed Grilled Chicken

Introduction

This Alabama-style Sweet Tea Glazed Chicken is the ultimate balance of crispy seared exterior and juicy interior. The Arteflame grill’s extreme heat locks in the juices, while the reverse sear creates the perfect doneness. The sweet tea and honey glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving you an irresistibly flavorful dish with a true Alabama twist.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup brewed sweet tea
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oil-soaked napkins in the grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to heat the grill for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Tea Glaze

1. In a bowl, mix sweet tea, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Melt butter on the flat cooktop griddle.
2. Place chicken breasts onto the center grill grate and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a golden crust forms.

Step 4: Move Chicken to the Flat Cooktop

1. Transfer the chicken to the cooler outer edge of the cooktop.
2. Brush with the sweet tea glaze as the chicken cooks.
3. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 150°F. Remove from the grill.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, allowing carryover cooking to bring it to the perfect doneness.
2. Serve hot with additional glaze if desired.

Tips

• Always let the chicken rest before slicing—it will be juicier and more flavorful.
• If using bone-in chicken, allow more cooking time while following the same searing and reverse-searing method.
• For an extra smoky flavor, add a small wood chunk to the fire before cooking.

Variations

1. Spicy Alabama Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper and a tablespoon of hot sauce to the glaze for a fiery kick.
2. Citrus-Infused Chicken: Replace apple cider vinegar with freshly squeezed orange juice for a bright, tangy glaze.
3. Bourbon Glaze Chicken: Mix in a tablespoon of bourbon for a smoky depth of flavor.
4. Herb-Infused Chicken: Add fresh rosemary and thyme to the butter for an aromatic finish.
5. Maple-Peach Chicken: Swap honey for maple syrup and add pureed peaches for a sweet, Southern twist.

Conclusion

Grilling Alabama Sweet Tea Glazed Chicken on the Arteflame grill brings out flavors you won’t achieve any other way. The sear locks in the juices, while the flat cooktop perfects the doneness with even heat. Whether you prefer classic or a unique variation, this dish will impress every time.

Best Pairings

• Grilled cornbread with honey butter
• Coleslaw with apple cider vinaigrette
• Smoky baked beans
• Sliced grilled peaches with cinnamon
• Ice-cold Southern-style sweet tea