Best Apple Butter Barbecued Chicken Recipes

What is Apple Butter Barbecued Chicken?

Apple butter barbecued chicken is a delicious recipe that combines the tangy and sweet flavors of apple butter with savory, grilled chicken. The recipe has become a popular one in recent years, as people look for new and creative ways to cook chicken. Combining the sweetness of apples with the smokiness of the grill, this recipe is the perfect choice for a summer cookout, a backyard party, or a family dinner.

The Ingredients of Apple Butter Barbecued Chicken

The ingredients for apple butter barbecued chicken are surprisingly simple:

• Chicken: You can use any cut of chicken you prefer, from wings to breasts to thighs.
• Apple Butter: This is the star ingredient of the recipe. Look for a high-quality apple butter that is thick and rich in flavor.
• Brown Sugar: The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken on the grill.
• Olive Oil: The olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill.
• Garlic: Garlic adds a touch of flavor and depth to the marinade.
• Salt and Pepper: These are the basic seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.

How to Prepare Apple Butter Barbecued Chicken

Preparing apple butter barbecued chicken is a simple process that involves preparing a marinade, grilling the chicken, and glazing it with the apple butter sauce. Here is a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious recipe:

1. Prepare the Marinade: Combine the apple butter, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Whisk them together until everything is fully combined.
2. Add the Chicken: Add the chicken to the bowl with the marinade and toss it to make sure that each piece is fully coated.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for up to 12 hours. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Glaze the Chicken: Brush the chicken with the remaining apple butter sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. This will create a delicious caramelized crust on the chicken.
7. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish it with chopped herbs or a slice of lemon for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Apple Butter Barbecued Chicken

If you want to make the best apple butter barbecued chicken, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients whenever possible. This will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and the apple butter.
• Marinate the Chicken for a Long Time: Marinate the chicken for as long as possible to allow the flavors to permeate the meat.
• Grill the Chicken Over Medium-High Heat: Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for the perfect char on the outside and juicy meat on the inside.
• Baste the Chicken with Apple Butter: Baste the chicken with the apple butter sauce during the last few minutes of grilling to create a deliciously caramelized crust on the chicken.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Conclusion: Why Apple Butter Barbecued Chicken is the Best

Apple butter barbecued chicken is the best because it combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in one dish. It's easy to prepare, with just a few simple ingredients, and it's always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So fire up your grill and get ready to enjoy the taste of summer with apple butter barbecued chicken!

Barbecue chicken is a classic dish that most people love, but have you tried apple butter barbecue chicken? It's even better! The apple butter adds a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the savory chicken perfectly. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, here are some valuable tips to help you make the most delicious apple butter barbecue chicken recipes.

Tip #1: Choose the Right Cut of Chicken

The first step to making great apple butter barbecue chicken is choosing the right cut of chicken. While almost any cut will work, some are better than others. For example, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks are ideal because they are juicy and full of flavor. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a good option for those who prefer white meat, but they can be dry if overcooked.

TIP: Brine Your Chicken

Brining your chicken before cooking can make it even juicier and more flavorful. To brine your chicken, mix one cup of salt with one gallon of water and soak the chicken in the brine for at least an hour before cooking.

Tip #2: Marinate Your Chicken

Marinating your chicken in a flavorful sauce is a great way to add more depth of flavor to the dish. For apple butter barbecue chicken, you'll want to use a marinade that includes apple cider vinegar and apple butter, along with other spices and seasonings. Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

TIP: Reserve Some Marinade for Basting

After you've marinated the chicken, don't throw away the leftover marinade! Reserve a cup or so to use for basting during cooking. The extra sauce will help keep the chicken moist and add even more flavor to the dish.

Tip #3: Use the Right Cooking Method

There are several ways to cook apple butter barbecue chicken, but some methods work better than others. Grilling is a popular option because it gives the chicken a nice char and smoky flavor, but it can be difficult to control the cooking temperature. Baking in the oven is another good option because it's easy to control the temperature and you can use a baking dish to catch any drips. Slow cooking in a crockpot is another great option because it allows the chicken to cook low and slow, resulting in tender, juicy meat.

TIP: Use Indirect Heat for Grilling

If you choose to grill your apple butter barbecue chicken, be sure to use indirect heat. This means keeping the chicken on the opposite side of the grill from the heat source. This will prevent the chicken from burning or drying out.

Tip #4: Don't Overcook the Chicken

One of the biggest mistakes people make when cooking chicken is overcooking it. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F, but be careful not to go beyond that or the chicken will be dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and remove the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches 165°F.

TIP: Rest the Chicken Before Serving

After you've cooked the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even juicier and more tender.

Tip #5: Serve with the Right Sides

Finally, don't forget to serve your apple butter barbecue chicken with the right sides. Some classic options include corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans. You can also serve it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter side dish.

TIP: Make a Creamy Coleslaw Dressing with Apple Butter

For a unique twist on traditional coleslaw, make a creamy coleslaw dressing with apple butter. Mix together apple butter, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss the dressing with shredded cabbage and carrots for a sweet and tangy side that complements the apple butter barbecue chicken perfectly.

Conclusion

Making apple butter barbecue chicken is easier than you might think, and with these valuable tips, it's sure to turn out delicious every time. Remember to choose the right cut of chicken, marinate it for flavor, use the right cooking method, don't overcook it, and serve it with the right sides. With a little practice, you'll be making perfect apple butter barbecue chicken every time!