Stacey's Famous BBQ Chicken
This is sticky, finger-lickin' sauce that everyone, including my kids, loves. I make it in big batches now and give jars of it to family and friends. —Stacey Nerness, Spencer, Iowa
This is sticky, finger-lickin' sauce that everyone, including my kids, loves. I make it in big batches now and give jars of it to family and friends. —Stacey Nerness, Spencer, Iowa
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons prepared mustard
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
- 1 serrano pepper finely chopped
- 2-1/2 cups ketchup
- 4 chicken leg quarters
- 1/4 cup liquid smoke
- Carbohydrate 65.2004330001824 g
- Cholesterol 46.2033333333333 mg
- Fat 7.43591772469471 g
- Fiber 0.836283082962708 g
- Protein 12.2394191140175 g
- Saturated Fat 1.9482563413731 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings plus 3 cups leftover sauce. (173g)
- Sodium 968.954114345276 mg
- Sugar 64.3641499172197 g
- Trans Fat 0.691852349381401 g
- Calories 368 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large saucepan, combine the first 12 ingredients.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Set aside 1/2 cup sauce for basting; cover and refrigerate remaining sauce for later use.
- Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper.
- Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, rub on grill rack to coat lightly.
- Prepare grill for indirect heat, using a drip pan.
- Place chicken skin side down over drip pan; grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 20 minutes.
- Turn; grill 20-30 minutes longer or until a thermometer reads 170-175 degrees, basting occasionally with reserved sauce.
Stacey's Famous BBQ Chicken: A Family Favorite
The aroma of smoky, sweet BBQ chicken fills my kitchen, a familiar comfort that always brings a smile to my face. This isn't just any BBQ recipe; it's Stacey's Famous BBQ Chicken, a recipe passed down (well, more like enthusiastically shared!) through my family. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients, carefully combined to create something truly extraordinary. The secret? It's all in the sauce.
I remember the first time I made this recipe. I was a young wife, eager to impress my husband with my culinary skills. Honestly, I was a bit intimidated by the long list of ingredients, but I persevered. And the results? Pure magic. The chicken was tender, juicy, and coated in a sticky, sweet, and subtly spicy sauce that had everyone reaching for seconds – and thirds! My husband's eyes lit up; it was a moment I'll always cherish. Since then, this recipe has become a staple at our family gatherings, holidays, and even just a Tuesday night dinner.
What truly sets this BBQ chicken apart is the sauce. It’s a vibrant blend of ketchup, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of spice from cayenne pepper and a finely chopped serrano pepper (don't worry, it's not overwhelmingly spicy!). The molasses adds depth and richness, while the onion and garlic powder provide a savory undertone. It's the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with just the right amount of kick. I often make huge batches of the sauce, enough to fill several jars. These jars become little gifts, a taste of home I share with friends and family, spreading joy and deliciousness wherever they go.
Over the years, this recipe has become more than just a meal; it's a tradition. It's the smell that signals a gathering, the taste that evokes memories of laughter and love. It’s the recipe that reminds me of my own evolution as a cook and a homemaker. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most memorable meals are the simplest ones, made with love and shared with those we care about most. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and prepare to create a culinary masterpiece. Your family will thank you. This isn't just BBQ chicken; it's a legacy. And I'm happy to share it with you.
Tips and Variations:
• Spice it up: For those who like a little more heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
• Make it your own: Experiment with different types of peppers. A jalapeño could add a milder heat, while a habanero would bring a fiery punch.
• Slow and low: For the most tender chicken, consider smoking the chicken instead of grilling it. A low and slow approach will ensure a juicy and flavorful result.
• Prep ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Leftovers: The leftover sauce is fantastic! Use it as a marinade for other meats, a glaze for vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders. The possibilities are endless!
This recipe isn’t just about the chicken, or even the sauce; it’s about the memories and the joy that comes from sharing a meal with those you love. So go ahead, give it a try and experience the magic of Stacey's Famous BBQ Chicken for yourself. I promise, it's worth every lick!
