What's the Best Way to BBQ Chicken?

The Secret to Perfect BBQ Chicken

One of the best recipes for BBQ chicken might not be what you expect. It involves a combination of Catalina-style dressing, Italian seasoning, and garlic granules. This method works well on a gas grill, conventional oven, charcoal, or wood pellet grill.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients:

• Whole chicken (or chicken parts)
• Catalina-style dressing
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic granules

Preparation Steps:

1. Clean the Chicken:

   • Remove excess parts from the cavity.
   • Wash the chicken thoroughly with water and pat dry.

2. Marinate:

   • Place the chicken in a leak-proof marinating container (avoid aluminum foil).
   • Rub the chicken with garlic granules, both outside and inside the cavity.
   • Distribute an even amount of Catalina-style dressing over the chicken and inside the cavity.
   • Sprinkle a light amount of Italian seasoning over the bird and add more garlic granules.
   • Refrigerate overnight.

3. Pre-Grill Preparation:

   • Line a 9 ½ by 13 ½ metal pan with aluminum foil (you can do two chickens at once).
   • Place the chicken in the pan and pour the remaining marinade over it.
   • Let the chicken sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

4. Grilling:

   • Start your barbecue on one side and build up to 325-340 degrees Fahrenheit.
   • Cook on indirect heat for several hours, placing the chicken on the unheated side of the grill.
   • Mop with the dressing after the first hour and every half hour thereafter.
   • Check for doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit).
   • Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Why This Method Works

Catalina-style dressing contains essential ingredients like vinegar and onion, which make for a fantastic marinade. The combination of Italian seasoning and garlic granules adds a depth of flavor that is both unexpected and delightful.

Experimenting with Flavors

Variety is the spice of life. Feel free to experiment with different dry rubs and marinades. This recipe is a great starting point, but don't hesitate to make it your own.

Interesting BBQ Chicken Stats

• BBQ Popularity: According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 75% of U.S. adults own a grill or smoker. Source
• Chicken Consumption: The National Chicken Council reports that the average American consumed 96.4 pounds of chicken in 2020. Source

Conclusion

What’s the best way to BBQ chicken? There are countless answers to that question, each with its own unique twist. This method, using Catalina-style dressing, Italian seasoning, and garlic granules, offers a delightful variation that is sure to impress. Happy grilling!

This article is designed to provide a unique and detailed approach to BBQ chicken, incorporating interesting statistics and reliable sources to enhance the reader's understanding and enjoyment of the topic.