Delmarva BBQ Chicken Recipe Perfect For Summer Grilling

If you’re a fan of smoky, tangy, and downright mouthwatering barbecue, then the Delmarva BBQ Chicken recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Originating from the Delmarva Peninsula, this style of barbecue chicken boasts a distinctive blend of flavors that perfectly balance sweet, spicy, and smoky notes.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a family cookout or simply craving a comfort food classic, this recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken slathered in a rich, homemade barbecue sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

What makes Delmarva BBQ Chicken truly special is the unique marinade and slow-smoking technique that infuses the meat with layers of flavor, while keeping it incredibly moist. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through every step of this delicious recipe, share some handy tips and variations, and even suggest perfect pairings to make your meal complete.

Ready to impress your friends and family with an authentic taste of Delmarva? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Delmarva BBQ Chicken recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and tender textures. Unlike generic BBQ chicken, this recipe emphasizes a slow-cooked approach that locks in juiciness, paired with a sauce that’s perfectly balanced—not too sweet, not too tangy.

The homemade BBQ sauce is a star here, blending tomato, vinegar, and just the right amount of spices to complement the smoky flavor of the chicken. Plus, the chicken is marinated overnight, which means the flavors penetrate deeply, giving you a juicy bite every time.

Best of all, this recipe is approachable for both beginners and seasoned grillers, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. If you enjoy mastering regional American BBQ styles, this dish is an excellent addition to your cooking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 4 lbs whole chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts, or a mix)
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood recommended)

Equipment

• Charcoal or gas grill with lid
• Smoking box or foil pouch for wood chips
• Mixing bowls
• Brush or spoon for applying sauce
• Meat thermometer
• Large resealable plastic bag or airtight container for marinating
• Grill tongs
• Aluminum foil (optional, for resting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or container. Pour in about half of the BBQ sauce, reserving the other half for basting later. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
3. Prepare the grill: If using a charcoal grill, light the coals and arrange them for indirect heat. For a gas grill, preheat on medium and turn off burners on one side to create a cooler zone. Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes, then drain and place in a smoker box or foil pouch with holes.
4. Start smoking the chicken: Place the smoker box or foil pouch on the heat source. Arrange the chicken pieces skin-side up on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and maintain the grill temperature around 275-300°F (135-150°C).
5. Cook low and slow: Smoke the chicken for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, turning every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and applying reserved BBQ sauce with a brush during the last 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10 minutes to retain juices before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For the juiciest BBQ chicken, always marinate overnight and cook low and slow over indirect heat. Patience is key!”

• Adjust heat level: If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to your marinade.
• Smoky flavor: Experiment with different wood chips like mesquite, cherry, or pecan to customize the smoke aroma.
• Oven method: If you don’t have a grill, bake the chicken at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, basting with sauce every 15 minutes.
• Make it a whole chicken: Use a whole spatchcocked chicken instead of pieces for a faster cook and impressive presentation.
• BBQ sauce twist: Stir in some honey or molasses for a richer, sweeter sauce variation.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Delmarva BBQ Chicken pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides. Consider serving it alongside creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, and baked beans for an authentic experience.

Grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad also make excellent accompaniments, balancing the smoky richness of the chicken.

For a lighter meal, pair with steamed green beans or roasted sweet potatoes. Don’t forget to have some extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling!

If you’re looking for more delicious recipe ideas that complement your BBQ feast, check out these favorites:

• Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious
• Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious
• Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping

Conclusion

Delmarva BBQ Chicken is a delicious homage to the rich culinary traditions of the Mid-Atlantic region, combining smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors to create a truly unforgettable meal. Its easy preparation and rewarding results make it perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss.

By marinating your chicken overnight and smoking it low and slow, you’ll achieve tender, juicy meat that’s infused with a rich, smoky flavor. The homemade barbecue sauce adds just the right amount of tang and sweetness, bringing the entire dish together beautifully.

Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe box.

Ready to try more exciting recipes? Dive into our collection of flavorful dishes and elevate your cooking adventures today!

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