We’ve always been huge fans of smoky, finger-licking BBQ chicken and Dave Shirkey’s recipe delivers that irresistible twist we crave. Originating from a blend of Southern traditions and personal flair it’s packed with juicy tenderness and bold spices that elevate any cookout.
As grilling experts we can’t wait to share how this dish brings people together around the grill. Whether you’re a novice or pro you’ll master Dave Shirkey’s BBQ chicken in no time making it a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
In our exploration of the Dave Shirkey BBQ Chicken Recipe, we focus on the essential ingredients that deliver its signature smoky flavor, juicy tenderness, and bold spices. We’ve curated this list based on traditional Southern techniques with Dave Shirkey’s personal twists, ordering them as they typically appear in preparation for seamless cooking.
For the Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on – We select these for their ability to retain moisture and absorb bold spices, ensuring a juicy result when grilled.
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Used to create a base for the marinade, helping the spices cling and infuse the chicken with rich flavor.
- 2 tablespoons paprika – A key spice for that authentic smoky depth, applied early to build the rub’s bold profile.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – Freshly measured for its pungent kick, mixed into the rub to enhance the overall aroma.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Added for a subtle heat that complements the Southern traditions in Dave Shirkey’s recipe.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Kosher variety preferred, incorporated into the marinade to draw out flavors and tenderize the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground – Blended in to add a sharp contrast against the sweeter elements.
For the BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup ketchup – Serves as the foundation of the sauce, providing a tangy sweetness that glazes the chicken perfectly.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar – Poured in for acidity, which balances the spices and keeps the chicken moist during grilling.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Measured to caramelize on the grill, enhancing the bold spices with a touch of Southern sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Stirred into the sauce for umami depth, a Dave Shirkey favorite that elevates the dish’s complexity.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Included to amplify the smoky essence, tying back to the recipe’s core flavors.
This selection ensures every element works together for a flavorful, accessible cookout experience, drawing from our expertise in grilling traditions.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Dave Shirkey BBQ chicken recipe successfully, we rely on a few key tools that ensure even cooking, safe handling, and that signature smoky flavor. Building on the ingredients we’ve outlined, these items help us marinate, grill, and glaze the chicken with precision and ease.
We recommend the following essential equipment, organized by preparation stage for clarity:
- Grill: A charcoal or gas grill is crucial for achieving the authentic smoky taste that defines this BBQ chicken dish. In our experience, a grill with a lid maintains consistent heat, allowing the chicken thighs to reach juicy tenderness while infusing bold spices from the marinade.
- Tongs: Sturdy metal tongs are indispensable for flipping and turning the chicken without piercing the skin, which helps lock in moisture and prevent flare-ups during grilling.
- Basting Brush: Opt for a heat-resistant silicone basting brush to apply the tangy BBQ sauce evenly. This tool ensures the sweet glaze coats the chicken perfectly, enhancing its flavorful crust.
- Mixing Bowls: We suggest using at least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for combining the marinade ingredients and another for the sauce—to keep preparation organized and prevent cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s success, so a set of standard measuring cups and spoons helps us precisely portion items like olive oil, paprika, and brown sugar.
- Instant-Read Thermometer: For food safety and optimal results, an instant-read thermometer lets us check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, guaranteeing it’s cooked through without drying out.
If you’re new to grilling, we advise investing in quality versions of these tools to elevate your cookout experience with Dave Shirkey’s techniques.
Instructions
We guide you through preparing Dave Shirkey’s BBQ chicken recipe step by step, building on the ingredients and equipment we’ve outlined to achieve that perfect smoky flavor and juicy tenderness.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we gather and prep all the ingredients for seamless cooking. Start by measuring out the dry spices: 2 tablespoons paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon black pepper into a small bowl for the marinade—this blend ensures bold, smoky notes that define the dish. Next, in a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil with the spices to create a smooth paste. For the BBQ sauce, mix 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika in another bowl, stirring until fully blended for a tangy-sweet glaze. Finally, pat 2 pounds chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, promoting even browning and flavor absorption during grilling.
Marinate the Chicken
We marinate the chicken to infuse it with deep, savory flavors. Coat the prepared chicken thighs evenly with the spice-oil mixture, ensuring every piece is fully covered for maximum taste penetration. Place the coated chicken in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 4 hours—this step allows the spices to tenderize the meat and develop a rich, aromatic profile that makes Dave Shirkey’s recipe stand out. If you’re short on time, we recommend a minimum of 30 minutes, but longer marination yields the juiciest results.
Grill the Chicken
With the chicken ready, we move to grilling for that authentic smoky char. Preheat your charcoal or gas grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F) for even cooking. Using sturdy metal tongs, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill grates, skin side down, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until the skin crisps up and develops golden-brown grill marks—flip only once to maintain moisture. In the last 5 minutes, brush on the BBQ sauce mixture with a heat-resistant silicone basting brush, applying it generously for a sticky, caramelized finish. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring the chicken is safely cooked through and irresistibly tender with a bold, tangy aroma that fills the air.
Serve
To finish, we plate the grilled chicken while it’s hot for the best flavor experience. Transfer the chicken to a serving platter and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices, then garnish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley for a vibrant pop of color and taste. Slice or serve whole alongside classic sides such as coleslaw or cornbread to complement the smoky, spicy notes. This method highlights the dish’s tender texture and bold flavors, making it a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any cookout.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Dave Shirkey BBQ Chicken Recipe even more convenient for busy cookouts, we recommend preparing certain elements in advance. This approach allows the flavors to develop fully while saving time on the day of grilling. Follow these steps to ensure your dish remains juicy, smoky, and full of bold spices without last-minute rushes.
Preparing the Marinade and Chicken
We suggest marinating the chicken ahead to enhance its tenderness and infuse it with deep, authentic flavors. Here’s how:
- Step 1: Combine the dry spices—such as paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper—with olive oil in a mixing bowl as outlined in our earlier instructions. This creates a flavorful base that penetrates the chicken thighs effectively.
- Step 2: Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade mixture. For optimal results, place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
- Step 3: Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 1 hour, but for the best smoky and tangy outcome, let it sit for up to 24 hours. This step ensures the spices meld beautifully, making the chicken incredibly moist when grilled.
Making the BBQ Sauce in Advance
Our homemade BBQ sauce is versatile and tastes even better after resting, so prepare it ahead to achieve that perfect sweet-tangy glaze.
- Step 1: Mix the sauce ingredients—ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika—in a saucepan and simmer as per the recipe.
- Step 2: Once cooled, transfer the sauce to an airtight jar or container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing the flavors to intensify.
- Step 3: When ready to use, simply reheat the sauce gently on the stove or in the microwave until warm, then apply it to the chicken during grilling for a glossy, flavorful finish.
Storage and Safety Tips
To maintain food safety and quality, we advise the following guidelines for make-ahead preparations:
| Element | Storage Method | Maximum Time | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marinated Chicken | Airtight container in refrigerator | 24 hours | Always use fresh chicken and discard if it exceeds this time to avoid bacterial growth. |
| BBQ Sauce | Airtight jar in refrigerator | 5 days | Stir well before use; if it separates, that’s normal—just remix for even consistency. |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we help you streamline your grilling process while preserving the irresistible smokiness and juicy tenderness that define our Dave Shirkey BBQ Chicken Recipe. This ensures every cookout is a success, no matter your schedule.
Conclusion
We’ve loved diving into Dave Shirkey’s BBQ chicken recipe with you, blending tradition and ease for unforgettable flavors. It’s a versatile dish that elevates any gathering, drawing on our grilling expertise to make it simple yet impressive. Try it out, experiment with your twists, and enjoy the results—it’s sure to spark joy at your next cookout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dave Shirkey’s BBQ chicken recipe?
Dave Shirkey’s recipe is a flavorful take on Southern-style BBQ chicken, blending traditional grilling with personal twists for a smoky, juicy dish. It’s perfect for cookouts, using simple ingredients and steps that suit both novice and experienced cooks, emphasizing bold spices and tender results.
What ingredients are needed for the marinade?
The marinade requires chicken thighs, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. These ingredients enhance moisture and flavor, creating a spicy, aromatic base. Mix them together and let the chicken marinate for at least one hour in the fridge for best results.
What equipment is essential for preparing this recipe?
You’ll need a charcoal or gas grill for smoky flavor, sturdy metal tongs for handling, a silicone basting brush for sauce application, mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F. Quality tools make grilling safer and more efficient.
How do I make the BBQ sauce for this recipe?
Combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika in a bowl. Mix well, then simmer briefly to blend flavors. This tangy, sweet sauce complements the chicken perfectly—apply it during grilling for a glossy finish.
Can I prepare this BBQ chicken recipe in advance?
Yes, marinate the chicken ahead of time to deepen flavors, and make the BBQ sauce in advance for better taste development. Store marinated chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours and sauce for up to a week. Follow food safety tips to maintain quality and ensure a seamless cookout.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner grillers?
Absolutely, it’s accessible for beginners with simple steps and common ingredients. The article provides clear instructions, from prepping to grilling, and tips like using a thermometer for safety. With basic tools, even novices can achieve juicy, flavorful results on their first try.
What are some serving suggestions for this BBQ chicken?
Serve the chicken hot off the grill, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Pair it with sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled veggies for a complete meal. It’s ideal as a cookout centerpiece, feeding a crowd with its bold flavors and tender texture.