There’s something truly magical about Kentucky grilled chicken that makes it stand out at any gathering! Picture this: juicy chicken quarters marinated in a tangy buttermilk mixture packed with flavor, then grilled to perfection over an open flame. The aroma fills the air, drawing everyone to the backyard BBQ, and trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be smitten! The rich flavors of paprika and garlic meld together beautifully, creating a mouthwatering experience you won’t forget. Plus, grilling gives that irresistible smoky char that just takes it over the top. I can’t wait for you to try this Kentucky grilled chicken recipe; I know you and your loved ones are going to love it just as much as I do!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken quarters (bone-in, skin-on for the best flavor)
• 1 cup buttermilk (this will make the chicken super tender)
• 1 tablespoon paprika (for that smoky kick)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder (because who doesn’t love garlic?)
• 1 tablespoon onion powder (it adds a lovely depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon salt (don’t skimp on this—it’s key!)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground if you can)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)

How to Prepare Kentucky Grilled Chicken

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—getting that Kentucky grilled chicken ready to impress! This method is straightforward, but I promise the flavors are anything but simple. Just remember, the secret is in the marinating. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Give it a good whisk until everything is well blended. You’ll want to take a moment to appreciate that aroma—it’s heavenly!
2. Add the chicken quarters to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Now, this is where the magic happens! Let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours, but if you can swing it, overnight is even better. Trust me, the longer, the tastier!
3. When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is key for that perfect sear and juicy interior.
4. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the marinade—no double dipping here!
5. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want that skin to crisp up beautifully.
6. After 15-20 minutes, flip the chicken and grill for another 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for that golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F. A meat thermometer makes this part a breeze!
7. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial! It allows the juices to redistribute, so your first bite is as juicy as can be.

And there you have it! You’re on your way to serving up some delicious Kentucky grilled chicken that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready for some happy taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The buttermilk marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, tangy flavor that’s simply irresistible!
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne or add your favorite spices to make it as mild or spicy as you prefer.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.
• Leftover Friendly: The flavors only get better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Kentucky grilled chicken turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some pro tips that’ll take your grilling game to the next level:

• Marinate Longer: If you have the time, let the chicken marinate overnight. It really makes a difference in tenderness and flavor. The buttermilk does wonders!
• Don’t Rush the Grill: Preheat your grill properly. Starting with a hot grill helps create that beautiful sear on the chicken and keeps it juicy inside.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is my must-have tool! For perfectly cooked chicken, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. It takes the guesswork out of grilling!
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let your chicken rest for those 5 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy meat, as it allows the juices to redistribute.
• Flip Wisely: Only flip your chicken once! This helps to achieve nice grill marks and prevents it from drying out.
• Keep the Lid Closed: While grilling, try to keep the lid closed as much as possible. It helps maintain consistent heat and cooks the chicken evenly.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to grill up some mouthwatering Kentucky grilled chicken that will wow your family and friends. Happy grilling!

Variations of Kentucky Grilled Chicken

If you’re like me and love to experiment in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are so many ways to put a twist on this classic Kentucky grilled chicken recipe! Here are a few variations that I absolutely adore:

• Herb-Infused Marinade: Swap out some of the spices for fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Just chop them up and mix them into the buttermilk marinade for a fragrant twist!
• Honey Mustard Glaze: Add a couple of tablespoons of honey and Dijon mustard to the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor. It caramelizes beautifully on the grill!
• Spicy Asian Twist: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil instead of buttermilk. Marinate the chicken for a few hours, and then grill for an Asian-inspired dish that’s sure to impress.
• Citrus Zest: Mix in some lemon or lime juice and zest into your marinade for a bright, zesty flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the smoky grilled chicken!
• BBQ Variation: After marinating, brush your favorite barbecue sauce on the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling. It adds a sticky, sweet layer that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Smoked Version: If you have a smoker, try smoking the chicken instead of grilling. The slow cooking brings out an incredible depth of flavor!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own! The beauty of grilling is that it’s all about making it your own. Enjoy playing around with flavors, and you might just discover your new favorite version of Kentucky grilled chicken!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve grilled up some delicious Kentucky grilled chicken, and now you’re wondering how to store those tasty leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage and reheating are key to keeping that flavor and juiciness intact.

First off, let your chicken cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps avoid condensation, which can make your chicken soggy. Once cooled, transfer the chicken to an airtight container. I like to separate the pieces with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

If you’re looking to keep it for longer, freezing is the way to go! Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy that Kentucky goodness for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date so you know when it’s time to feast!

Now, when it comes time to reheat, you have a couple of options. For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. If you want to crisp up the skin a bit, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating—trust me, it’s worth it!

You can also reheat in the microwave if you’re short on time, but be careful not to overdo it. Heat on medium power in short bursts of 30 seconds until warmed through, but this method might sacrifice some of that lovely crispiness.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Kentucky grilled chicken even after it’s left the grill. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this mouthwatering Kentucky grilled chicken. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use:

• Serving Size: 1 chicken quarter
• Calories: 320
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g
• Protein: 30g

This Kentucky grilled chicken is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a fantastic option for a filling meal. Enjoy every juicy bite knowing it’s both satisfying and nutritious!

FAQ About Kentucky Grilled Chicken

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts work great too. Just keep in mind that cooking times may be shorter, so check for that perfect internal temperature of 165°F.

How long should I marinate the chicken?
I recommend marinating for at least 4 hours, but if you can leave it overnight, it’ll be even more flavorful and tender. The longer, the better!

What can I serve with Kentucky grilled chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans. You can also toss together a fresh salad for a lighter option!

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix up the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just make sure to give it a good stir before adding the chicken.

Is the chicken still good the next day?
Definitely! In fact, the flavors tend to deepen overnight. Just remember to store it properly in the fridge, and you can enjoy those tasty leftovers!

Kentucky Grilled Chicken: 7 Secrets for Juicy Perfection

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• Autor: Julia marin
• Gesamtzeit: 4 hours 55 minutes
• Ertrag: 4 servings 1x
• Ernährung: Glutenfrei

Drucken-Rezept

Pin-Rezept

Beschreibung

Kentucky grilled chicken is a flavorful dish marinated and grilled to perfection.

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Zutaten

Skala 1x2x3x

• 4 chicken quarters
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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Anweisungen

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add chicken quarters to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Place chicken on the grill, skin side down. Grill for 15-20 minutes.
6. Flip the chicken and grill for another 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked.
7. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Adjust spices according to your taste.
• Serve with your favorite sides.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Kochen Zeit: 40 minutes
• Kategorie: Main Course
• Methode: Grilling
• Küche: American

Ernährung

• Portionsgröße: 1 chicken quarter
• Kalorien: 320
• Zucker: 0g
• Natrium: 800mg
• Fett: 20g
• Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 5g
• Ungesättigte Fette: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Kohlenhydrate: 1g
• Faser: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterin: 110mg

Keywords: kentucky grilled chicken, grilled chicken recipe, chicken marinade