Oh my goodness, let me tell you about *Kentucky grilled chicken*! It’s this incredibly flavorful dish that just screams summer. The moment I fire up the grill, I can already smell the spices wafting through the air, and I can’t help but get excited. The blend of paprika, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from the brown sugar creates this mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with so much flavor. I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a backyard barbecue. They were blown away by the tender, juicy chicken and kept asking for the recipe. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become your go-to for grilling season, too! You’re going to love every bite, I promise!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this mouthwatering *Kentucky grilled chicken*. Make sure to gather everything beforehand so you’re ready to dive into the cooking fun!
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (this keeps the chicken juicy and helps the spices stick)
- 2 tablespoons paprika (adds that lovely smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (for a nice punch of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon onion powder (to enhance the savory notes)
- 1 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this, it brings everything together!)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (it balances the spices with a touch of sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but it gives a nice heat if you like it spicy!)
These ingredients really come together to create a vibrant and flavorful dish that you’ll be proud to serve!
How to Prepare *Kentucky Grilled Chicken*
Getting this *Kentucky grilled chicken* ready is a breeze, and I promise it’s worth every minute! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
First things first, let’s whip up that marinade! In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well blended. This step is crucial because you want every piece of chicken to soak up that delicious flavor!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Next, grab your chicken thighs and coat them generously with the marinade. Make sure each piece is covered evenly. I like to let them marinate for at least one hour—the longer, the better! If you can, pop them in the fridge overnight to really deepen those flavors. Trust me, it makes a world of difference!
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Now it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat, and once it’s hot, place your marinated chicken thighs on the grates. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. To check for doneness, you can use a meat thermometer—look for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through and juicy!
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once your chicken is ready, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time is essential because it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken nice and moist. When you’re ready to serve, plate it up and maybe garnish with some fresh herbs for a pop of color. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Tips for Success
To ensure your *Kentucky grilled chicken* comes out absolutely perfect, here are some of my top tips! First, don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your taste. If you like it spicier, add a bit more cayenne pepper or even some chili powder for an extra kick! For marinating, I highly recommend letting the chicken soak overnight if you can. This really enhances the flavors and makes the chicken super tender.
When it comes to grilling, keep an eye on the temperature. If your grill gets too hot, the chicken might burn on the outside before it’s cooked through. Using a meat thermometer is a game changer—just remember to check that it reaches 165°F (75°C). And don’t skip the resting step! It’s crucial for juicy, flavorful chicken. Happy grilling!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates. For each serving of *Kentucky grilled chicken* (1 thigh), you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
Always feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs while still enjoying this flavorful dish!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can work just as well, but keep in mind they may dry out a bit faster. You might want to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
I recommend marinating for at least 1 hour, but if you have the time, let it sit overnight in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it gets!
What should I serve with Kentucky grilled chicken?
This chicken pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even some cornbread for a complete meal experience.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! You can add extra cayenne pepper or even a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The blend of spices creates a mouthwatering taste that brings the essence of Kentucky right to your grill.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious meal without any fuss.
- Versatile Meal: Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this chicken fits any occasion perfectly.
- Perfectly Juicy: The marinating process keeps the chicken tender and packed with flavor, ensuring every bite is delightful.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices and sides to fit your family’s tastes and dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
To take your *Kentucky grilled chicken* to the next level, consider serving it alongside some delicious grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the flavors perfectly. And don’t forget some classic cornbread on the side for that true Southern touch! These pairings will elevate your meal and create a delightful dining experience for everyone!
Print
Kentucky grilled chicken: 5 steps to mouthwatering bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful grilled chicken dish inspired by Kentucky flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances flavor.
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a side salad.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: kentucky grilled chicken
