
BBQ sauce is a delicious addition to fried chicken, but the timing of when to add the sauce is crucial. While some people prefer to coat their chicken in sauce before cooking, this can lead to burning. For chicken, it's best to add the sauce during the final 10 to 15 minutes of cooking to allow it to caramelize without burning. This timing also applies to ribs. For beef, however, the sauce should be applied early so that it cooks directly into the meat. As for pork, the sauce should be added towards the end of cooking to avoid burning. Warming the sauce before applying it is also recommended.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Should you heat up BBQ sauce for fried chicken? | Yes, but only during the final 10-15 minutes of cooking. |
Why heat up BBQ sauce for fried chicken? | To create a tasty coating rather than burning the chicken. |
When to heat up the BBQ sauce? | During the final 10-15 minutes of cooking. |
How much sauce to use? | Enough to coat the chicken, but not too much that it is drenched. |
Type of sauce | A thick sauce is best for chicken. |
What You'll Learn
How to make BBQ sauce from scratch
Heating up BBQ sauce is a matter of personal preference. Some people like to heat it up to use it as a marinade, while others prefer to use it as a dipping sauce straight from the fridge.
Now, here's how to make BBQ sauce from scratch:
Ingredients:
- Ketchup
- Brown sugar
- Vinegar (apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar)
- Water
- Spices (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, dry mustard, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper)
- Worcestershire sauce or tamari/soy sauce
- Mustard (yellow or dijon)
- Liquid smoke (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a medium to large saucepan. The amount of water can be adjusted to reach the desired consistency.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low or simmer and continue cooking for about 20 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks.
- Remove from the heat and allow it to cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Store the BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It can also be frozen for up to three months.
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique BBQ sauce!
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The best time to add BBQ sauce to fried chicken
There are many ways to add BBQ sauce to fried chicken, and the best time to do so depends on the desired result. Here are some tips and techniques to help you achieve the perfect flavour and texture:
Timing is key
Adding BBQ sauce to fried chicken is all about timing. The general rule of thumb is to add the sauce towards the end of the cooking process. This is especially important when grilling or frying, as adding the sauce too early can cause it to burn and impart an unpleasant taste to the meat. Aim to add the sauce during the final 10 to 15 minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize without burning. This timing applies to both grilled chicken and ribs.
Coating technique
When coating the chicken with BBQ sauce, it's important to use a solid coating technique. Basting the chicken with just enough sauce to cover it without drenching it is the best approach. Start by coating one side of the chicken, then allow it to cook for 4 to 5 minutes before turning it over and coating the other side. This ensures even cooking and prevents the sauce from pooling or burning.
Sauce consistency
The consistency of the BBQ sauce also plays a crucial role. For fried chicken, it's best to use a thick sauce. A thin, vinegar or juice-based sauce may be too runny and won't coat the chicken as effectively. A thick sauce ensures that the chicken is fully coated and cooks evenly, resulting in a consistent texture and flavour.
Pre-made vs. homemade sauce
You can use store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own at home. Pre-made sauces are convenient and readily available, but making your own sauce allows you to customise the flavour and adjust the sweetness, tanginess, and spiciness to your preference. Homemade sauces can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Dipping and baking
Another option for adding BBQ sauce to fried chicken is to dip the cooked chicken pieces into the sauce and then bake them. This method creates a sticky glaze that is delicious straight out of the oven or even cold. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, dip the cold fried chicken pieces into the sauce, ensuring they are completely coated, and then bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the coating begins to caramelize.
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Preparing the Chicken
Firstly, you will need to cut 3 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breast into strips. Next, set up a batter station. In one bowl, whisk together eggs, water, milk, 2 tablespoons of salt, and 2 tablespoons of pepper. In another bowl, stir together 6 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of salt, 5 teaspoons of pepper, 2 tablespoons of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of dry mesquite-flavored seasoning mix. Use a fork to pick up a chicken strip, dip it into the egg mixture, then the flour mixture, back into the egg, and into the flour again. Repeat this process for each strip of chicken.
Frying the Chicken
Fill a large heavy skillet or wok halfway with 4 cups of oil and heat to 365 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the coated chicken strips into the hot oil and cook in batches, frying until browned on both sides.
Baking the Chicken in BBQ Sauce
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and butter a 12x20-inch glass baking dish or two 9x13-inch baking dishes. Pour enough barbecue sauce into the dish to coat the bottom. Arrange the fried chicken strips in rows in the dish and pour the remaining sauce over the top. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until the sauce is caramelized onto the chicken.
Tips for Heating and Applying BBQ Sauce
It is recommended to heat up your BBQ sauce before applying it to your chicken. This can be done by simmering the sauce in a saucepan for 5 to 10 minutes. If you are making your own sauce, be sure to let it cool completely before using it. When applying the sauce to grilled chicken, the ideal time is about 10 minutes before the chicken is ready. This will allow the sauce enough time to heat up and caramelize without burning.
Customizing Your BBQ Sauce
You can experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to customize your BBQ sauce to your taste preferences. For a spicier sauce, add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red crushed pepper. For a sweeter sauce, try adding more sugar, paprika, or brown sugar. You can also try adding soy sauce or omitting the liquid smoke for a different flavor profile.
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Storing Fried Chicken
Fried chicken should be allowed to cool down to room temperature before storing. Melodie Beal, head of culinary development at Amazon Fresh, recommends separating smaller pieces like wings, tenders, and drumsticks, as they will heat up faster and more evenly. Wrap the chicken in foil, ensuring the pieces are not layered on top of each other.
Reheating Fried Chicken in BBQ Sauce
There are several ways to reheat fried chicken in BBQ sauce, but microwaving should be avoided as it dries out the juices and toughens the coating.
Oven
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and arrange the chicken on the rack in a single layer. Allow the chicken to come to room temperature, then place it in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the skin is hot and crispy.
Stovetop
This is the fastest method, so care must be taken to prevent the chicken from overcooking and drying out. First, let the chicken come to room temperature. Then, add fry oil to a heavy-duty stock pot or Dutch oven and heat it to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Slowly add the chicken to the oil, ensuring the pan is not overcrowded, and cook for 3-5 minutes until crisp and heated through.
Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the chicken in a single layer and let it come to room temperature before placing it in the air fryer basket. Reheat the chicken for about 4 minutes, flipping it once to ensure even cooking.
BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It should be brushed onto the chicken about 10 minutes before it is ready to allow the sauce to caramelize without burning.
Final Thoughts
While reheating fried chicken in BBQ sauce can be tricky to get the same crispiness and flavor as when it was first cooked, with the right techniques and some patience, you can still enjoy delicious leftover fried chicken.
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What to serve with BBQ sauce fried chicken
Heating up BBQ sauce is a great way to enhance the flavour of fried chicken. The warmth allows the sauce to caramelise without burning, creating a delicious sticky coating on the chicken.
Classic Sides
- Fries: Cut potatoes into wedges or fries, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and bake in the oven until crispy. Serve with a side of BBQ sauce for dipping.
- Potato Salad: Boil potatoes until fork-tender, then chop and mix with mayonnaise, mustard, relish, and chopped vegetables like onions, celery, and pickles. Add a few tablespoons of BBQ sauce for extra flavour.
- Coleslaw: Shred cabbage, carrots, and onions, then mix with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and celery seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Baked Beans: Look for a variety with a sweet and smoky flavour, such as bourbon and brown sugar baked beans.
- Mac and Cheese: A comforting classic that goes well with fried chicken. Make it extra special by adding some shredded cheese on top and baking it until melted and bubbly.
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables
- Grilled Corn: Brush corn on the cob with butter, season with salt and pepper, and grill until slightly charred. Serve with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of chopped herbs.
- Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and slightly charred. Squeeze some lemon juice on top before serving.
- Grilled Asparagus: Toss asparagus spears in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill until tender. Squeeze some lemon juice on top and sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
- BBQ Veggie Skewers: Thread chunks of onion, bell pepper, zucchini, and mushroom onto skewers, brush with BBQ sauce, and grill until tender.
Bread and Salad
- Cornbread: A sweet and savoury quick bread that goes well with BBQ sauce. Follow a basic recipe or add some cheese, jalapeños, or herbs for extra flavour.
- Green Salad: Serve a simple green salad on the side to balance out the richness of the fried chicken. Mix together leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, or arugula with chopped vegetables like cucumbers, tomatoes, and avocados. Top with a vinaigrette dressing.
With these sides, you'll have a delicious and well-rounded meal to enjoy with your BBQ sauce fried chicken!
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is recommended to heat up BBQ sauce before applying it to fried chicken. This ensures that the sauce is evenly distributed and cooked into the meat.
A thick BBQ sauce is best suited for fried chicken. A thicker sauce will ensure the chicken is fully coated, whereas a thinner, vinegar or juice-based sauce may be too runny.
It is recommended to apply BBQ sauce to fried chicken during the final 10-15 minutes of cooking. This will prevent the sauce from burning and provide a tasty coating.