Favorite Barbecued Chicken is a classic and beloved dish that combines juicy, grilled chicken with a flavorful homemade barbecue sauce. This recipe is perfect for outdoor cookouts, gatherings, or simply when you’re craving a delicious and comforting barbecue meal. The tender chicken is seasoned with salt and pepper, grilled to perfection, and then brushed with a tangy and sweet barbecue sauce that adds a delightful smoky flavor.

Barbecued chicken has a long history in American cuisine and is a popular dish enjoyed at picnics, backyard barbecues, and summer gatherings. The method of grilling chicken with a flavorful sauce traces back to traditional Southern and regional barbecue styles, where the combination of smoky flavors, tender meat, and tangy sauces creates a mouthwatering experience.

The specific recipe for Favorite Barbecued Chicken may have been passed down through generations or developed by home cooks who experimented with different ingredients and techniques. It has become a favorite for many households, offering a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy grilled chicken with a homemade barbecue sauce.

PREP: 15 MIN.

GRILL: 35 MIN.

MAKES: 6 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1 broiler/fryer chicken (3 pounds), cut up
• Salt and pepper to taste

FOR BARBECUE SAUCE:

• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper
• Dash of salt
• Dash of hot pepper sauce

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sprinkle the cut-up chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the chicken pieces on the grill, skin side down, and grill them uncovered for 20 minutes.
3. While the chicken is grilling, prepare the barbecue sauce. In a small saucepan, sauté the finely chopped onion in canola oil until it becomes tender. Stir in the remaining barbecue sauce ingredients: ketchup, lemon juice, brown sugar, water, ground mustard, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and hot pepper sauce. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes.
4. After 20 minutes, turn the chicken pieces on the grill, and continue grilling them for an additional 15-25 minutes or until the juices run clear. While grilling, brush the chicken pieces often with the prepared barbecue sauce, coating them with the flavors.
5. Once the chicken is fully cooked and has a beautiful char, remove it from the grill.
6. Serve the Favorite Barbecued Chicken hot, accompanied by any remaining barbecue sauce for dipping or brushing.
7. Enjoy the delicious and smoky flavors of the Favorite Barbecued Chicken, which pairs perfectly with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. It’s a fantastic dish for outdoor gatherings and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Grilled Corn Salad: Serve a refreshing grilled corn salad alongside the barbecued chicken. Grill fresh corn on the cob, then cut the kernels off and toss them with cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, red onion, fresh herbs (such as cilantro or basil), and a light vinaigrette. This vibrant and flavorful salad adds a burst of freshness and crunch to your meal.
• Classic Coleslaw: A classic coleslaw is a timeless side dish that pairs perfectly with barbecued chicken. Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss them with a creamy coleslaw dressing made with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings. The cool and creamy texture of the coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky and tangy flavors of the chicken.