Spring Break Barbecue

The first week of April was our Spring Break, and I have to admit, I was worried it wouldn't really feel like "spring" at all. Thankfully though, the sun came out, and it warmed up nicely...a couple days very nicely!

And by end of that week, with the warm sunshine on my face, the capri pants on my legs, flip flops on my feet and sun staying out until past 7:30 pm, I was ready to barbecue! Plus, my oven was still on the fritz, so it was good timing!

I will pretty much eat anything you slather in barbecue sauce. I'm not picky. Cooked over an open flame, covered in a sweet, smoky sauce...just the thought makes me drool. There are so many options when it comes to barbecue sauce, but for me, I want great flavor, not a lot of heat, and a good mix of sweet and savory; and this is the perfect combination of both. I chose to use it with chicken, but honestly, it would be delicious on pork or beef too. Heck, mix it with some ground beef, and make some of my Barbecue Burgers, another one of our summer time favorites. I guarantee whatever meat you choose to use it with, your family and your guests are going to love every bite.

If you enjoy a good barbecue like we do, be sure to save this for when the time comes. Or, join us in starting the season now, no matter what the weather is doing!

Jack Daniels Chicken
1 3-4 lb. whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces (skin left on)
1/2 c. canola oil
2 TBS grill seasoning
Salt and Pepper to taste

Sauce
1/2-3/4 c. Jack Daniels, or to taste
1/2 c. onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 c. ketchup
1/3 c. vinegar
3 TBS Worcestershire sauce1/2 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
3/4 c. molasses
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 TBS salt
1/4 c. tomato paste
1 tsp. Liquid Smoke
1/2 tsp. Tabasco sauce, or to taste

Combine onion, garlic and Jack Daniels in a 3 quart saucepan. Sauté until translucent, about 10 minutes. Add all remaining ingredients, bring to boil. Simmer uncovered until reduced and thickened, about 15 to 25 minutes. Add more Jack Daniels if a stronger flavor is desired.

In a large bowl combine chicken, oil, grill seasoning, salt and pepper. Allow to sit at room temperature about 20 minutes. Preheat grill to high. Spray with cooking spray well. Sear chicken on each side for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and continue cooking for about 25 minutes turning every 3-4 minutes to crisp both sides. Baste with barbecue sauce and continue cooking for 6-7 minutes, turning often and re-basting.

Shared on The Country Cook Apr. 26, 2013
Shared on Make Ahead Meals Apr. 29, 2013
Shared on Mandy's Recipe Box Apr. 30, 2013

Chicken at Very Good Recipes