Spicy Rubbed Barbecue Chicken With Secret Sauce

I can still picture my grandfather, apron stained with barbecue sauce, meticulously tending the grill on sweltering summer afternoons. The air, thick with humidity and the irresistible aroma of smoky, spiced chicken, held the promise of a family feast. This recipe, inspired by those cherished memories, captures the essence of his flavorful barbecue, with a kick of heat and a secret ingredient that always kept us coming back for more. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a taste of home.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 12
• Dietary Type: Varies (Can be Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free)

Ingredients

SPICY SEASONING MIX

• 2 1⁄2 – 3 tablespoons salt (I prefer the coarseness of kosher salt)
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1⁄4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1⁄8 teaspoon ground red pepper
• 1⁄2 teaspoon sugar (optional but I wouldn’t leave it out)

SECRET BARBECUE SAUCE

• 2 cups ketchup
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons orange juice concentrate
• 2 tablespoons instant minced onion (dried)
• 1 tablespoon seasoning mix (see above recipe)
• 1⁄2 teaspoon liquid smoke

CHICKEN

• 2 broiler-fryer chickens, cut up (2 to 3 pounds each)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Equipment Needed

• Small bowl
• Grill
• Small brush

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the Spicy Seasoning Mix. In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together all the salt, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder, white pepper, turmeric, ground red pepper, and sugar. Remember to reserve 1 tablespoon of this mixture for the Secret Barbecue Sauce. This blend of spices forms the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with depth and heat.

2. Next, craft the Secret Barbecue Sauce. In a separate small bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, orange juice concentrate, instant minced onion, the reserved 1 tablespoon of seasoning mix, and the liquid smoke. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated. The orange juice concentrate adds a subtle sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the smoky and spicy elements. Set this sauce aside; its time to shine will come later.

3. Prepare the chicken. Wash the cut-up chicken pieces thoroughly under cold water. Then, use paper towels to pat them completely dry. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a beautifully crisp skin on the grill.

4. Now, it’s time to season the chicken. Rub the chicken pieces with the vegetable oil, ensuring that each piece is lightly coated. This will help the seasoning adhere and promote even browning during grilling.

5. Generously sprinkle the Spicy Seasoning Mix over all sides of the chicken pieces. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – this is what gives the chicken its signature flavor!

6. Grill the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the chicken pieces, skin side down, directly on the grill grates. Grill, uncovered, for 20 minutes. The direct heat will create those desirable grill marks and render the skin.

7. Turn the chicken pieces over and continue to grill for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and no longer pink inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, being careful not to touch the bone.

8. During the last 10 minutes of grilling, it’s time to introduce the Secret Barbecue Sauce. Use a brush to generously brush the sauce onto the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Repeat this process frequently, basting the chicken with the sauce every few minutes. The heat will caramelize the sauce, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.

9. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is nice and crispy with the barbecue sauce it is done.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Make-Ahead Magic: The Spicy Seasoning Mix and the Secret Barbecue Sauce can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in airtight containers. This saves valuable time on the day of grilling.
• Spice Level Adjustment: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder and ground red pepper in the seasoning mix. For those who crave extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Even Cooking: Ensure that the grill is preheated evenly to prevent hot spots that can cause uneven cooking.
• Prevent Sticking: To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill grates, lightly oil the grates before placing the chicken on them.
• Smoked Flavor Boost: Add wood chips (such as hickory or mesquite) to your grill for an extra layer of smoky flavor. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before adding them to the grill.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Spicy Rubbed Barbecue Chicken hot off the grill, garnished with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro. It pairs beautifully with classic barbecue sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and baked beans.

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals to prevent drying out.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	418.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	230 g	55%
Total Fat	25.6 g	39%
Saturated Fat	7 g	34%
Cholesterol	115 mg	38%
Sodium	2014.7 mg	83%
Total Carbohydrate	17.3 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	0.8 g	3%
Sugars	14.2 g	56%
Protein	29.7 g	59%

Variations & Substitutions

• Chicken Cuts: Feel free to use different cuts of chicken, such as thighs, drumsticks, or boneless, skinless breasts. Adjust the grilling time accordingly.
• Vinegar-Based Sauce: For a tangy twist, substitute the ketchup-based barbecue sauce with a vinegar-based version.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially the ketchup and liquid smoke, are certified gluten-free.
• Spicier Sauce: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the barbecue sauce for an extra kick.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use this recipe on a gas grill instead of charcoal?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the heat settings to medium and follow the same grilling times. You may not get quite the same smoky flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Q: What if I don’t have orange juice concentrate?
A: You can substitute it with an equal amount of fresh orange juice or pineapple juice. The flavor will be slightly different, but still add a nice sweetness and tang.

Q: How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked without a thermometer?
A: Cut into the thickest part of the thigh; the juices should run clear, not pink. The meat should also be opaque and pull away easily from the bone.

Q: Can I use this seasoning on other meats besides chicken?
A: Yes! This spice rub is fantastic on pork ribs, beef brisket, or even grilled vegetables. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Q: My barbecue sauce is too thick. What should I do?
A: Add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Now it’s your turn to fire up the grill and create some magic! Whether you’re a seasoned barbecue pro or a grilling newbie, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. And please, share your creations and feedback – I can’t wait to hear about your Spicy Rubbed Barbecue Chicken adventures! Pair this chicken with a crisp, cold beer or a refreshing glass of iced tea for the perfect summer meal. Happy grilling!