Alabama Hot Chicken – Spicy Grilled Thighs & Pickles

Ingredients

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons Louisiana-style hot sauce
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Sliced dill pickles
• White sandwich bread

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Let the fire build for about 20 minutes until the center grill grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs and ensure they’re fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off.
2. Place the chicken directly on the center grill grate for 2 minutes per side to get a deep, golden sear.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared chicken thighs onto the flat cooktop near the middle heat zone.
2. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
3. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to reach 165°F.

Step 5: Apply Spicy Butter Glaze

1. Mix melted butter with honey and a tablespoon of hot sauce.
2. Brush the spicy glaze over the grilled chicken.

Step 6: Serve

1. Layer white bread slices with grilled chicken thighs.
2. Top with pickle slices.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Always remove the chicken from the grill when it’s 15°F below the target temperature as it continues cooking while resting.
• For extra crispy edges, baste with additional butter while grilling.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F.

Variations

1. Extra Hot Version: Double the cayenne and add chopped jalapeños to the marinade.
2. Sweet & Spicy: Mix in brown sugar with the marinade for a balanced heat.
3. BBQ Infused: Brush with Alabama white BBQ sauce instead of the spicy butter glaze.
4. Herb & Garlic: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, and extra garlic to the seasoning.
5. Crispy Crust: Coat the chicken in crushed cornflakes before grilling for an extra crunch.

Conclusion

Alabama Hot Chicken bursts with spice and smoky richness, thanks to the Arteflame grill’s searing and griddle cooking. Perfectly balanced with buttery heat and tangy pickles, this dish is a must-try for any grill enthusiast.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with chili butter
• Southern-style coleslaw
• Sweet tea or iced lemonade
• Grilled mac and cheese for extra indulgence