Kentucky Grilled Chicken

Want that iconic Southern taste without the guilt of frying? This Kentucky grilled chicken delivers all the flavor of the fast-food favorite in a healthier way. Juicy, bone-in chicken is marinated to perfection for a zesty, mildly spicy kick. I discovered this Kentucky grilled chicken recipe at a summer cookout competition, and it’s been my favorite ever since. The secret? A marinade of vinegar, oil, and spices that tenderizes the meat and delivers that signature flavor.

What makes this Kentucky grilled chicken special is how it captures that distinctive taste we all recognize, but in a way that’s healthier and perfect for backyard grilling. The chicken develops a beautiful caramelized exterior while staying incredibly juicy inside – it’s the best of both worlds!

What You’ll Love

• Restaurant Quality at Home – Enjoy that famous Kentucky flavor without leaving your backyard
• Healthier Option – All the flavor without the deep fryer, making it a more nutritious choice
• Versatile Recipe – Perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend cookouts, or meal prep for the week

Recipe Ingredients

Everything you need for this Kentucky grilled chicken comes together to create that signature flavor profile:

• Bone-in chicken breast halves
• Cider vinegar
• Canola oil
• Worcestershire sauce
• Hot pepper sauce
• Salt
• Optional spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder)

Ingredient Notes

• Bone-in Chicken – Using bone-in chicken breasts is crucial for this recipe as they retain moisture better during grilling and provide more flavor than boneless cuts.
• Cider Vinegar – The acidity not only adds tanginess but also helps tenderize the chicken, creating that juicy texture we’re looking for.
• Hot Pepper Sauce – I recommend Frank’s RedHot for authentic flavor, but you can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

How to Make Kentucky Grilled Chicken

For the complete recipe with exact measurements, scroll down to the printable recipe card. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together cider vinegar, canola oil, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken by submerging the bone-in chicken breasts in the mixture, covering, and refrigerating for at least 2 hours (overnight is better).
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
4. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Optional: Add extra seasonings like paprika or garlic powder during the final 10 minutes of grilling.
7. Rest the chicken for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Pro Tips

For truly authentic Kentucky grilled chicken, marinate overnight and maintain a consistent grill temperature throughout cooking. I’m not saying this is addictive, but I’ve made it three times this week.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover Kentucky grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezing – You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap individual pieces in foil, then place in freezer bags.
• Reheating – For best results, reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can dry out the chicken.

Additions & Substitutions

Additions:

• Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade for a touch of sweetness
• Include 1-2 teaspoons of smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor
• Try adding 2 teaspoons of dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist

Substitutions:

• Replace canola oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile
• Substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar if needed (though the flavor will be slightly different)
• Use boneless chicken pieces if preferred, but reduce the cooking time to prevent drying out
• Swap hot sauce for cayenne pepper if you prefer a different kind of heat

FAQs about this Kentucky Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken, salads with lean protein, and items without heavy sauces or breading are typically the healthiest fast food options. Many chains now offer grilled chicken, vegetable sides, and other lighter alternatives.

What Can I Serve with Kentucky Chicken?

This Kentucky grilled chicken pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. For a complete Kentucky-inspired meal, serve with biscuits and gravy or mac and cheese.

If you try this recipe, I’d be happy if you’d leave a comment below letting me know how it turned out! Your feedback helps other readers and inspires me to create more delicious recipes.

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