Spicy Southern Barbecued Chicken Recipe

Name: Spicy Southern Barbecued Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: Kosher salt; Cold water; One 3 1/2-pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup minced onion; 2 large garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika; 1 1/2 teaspoons pure ancho chile powder; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper; 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar; 1/2 cup cider vinegar; 1/2 cup tomato paste; 2 tablespoons unsulfured molasses

Servings: persons

Kosher salt
Cold water
One 3 1/2-pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup minced onion
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons pure ancho chile powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup tomato paste
2 tablespoons unsulfured molasses

1
In a large bowl, dissolve 1/4 cup of kosher salt in 2 quarts of cold water.
2
Add the chicken and refrigerate for 2 hours.
3
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan.
4
Add the onion and garlic and cook over low heat until softened.
5
Add the paprika, ancho powder and crushed red pepper; cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
6
Add 1 cup of water, the brown sugar and vinegar and bring to a simmer.
7
Stir in the tomato paste and molasses and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened, about 10 minutes.
8
Season with salt and let cool.
9
Light a grill or preheat the oven to 500.
10
Drain the chicken and pat dry, then grill over a moderately low fire, turning a few times, until just cooked through; about 25 minutes for the white meat; about 35 minutes for the dark.
11
Alternatively, in the upper third of the oven, roast the chicken, skin side up, on a rimmed baking sheet, until just cooked through; 25 minutes for the white meat; 35 to 40 minutes for the dark.
12
Set aside half of the barbecue sauce; brush the remaining sauce on the chicken.
13
Continue grilling or roasting the chicken for 10 minutes, or until nicely glazed.
14
Serve with the reserved sauce.

308

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: Kosher salt, Cold water, One 3 1/2-pound chicken, cut into 8 pieces, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, and more.

Yes, Spicy Southern Barbecued Chicken falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Spicy Southern Barbecued Chicken

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions