BBQ Chicken with California Citrus Glaze

Introduction

Juicy, perfectly grilled chicken basted with a sweet and tangy citrus glaze made from fresh California oranges, lemons, and honey. Cooked to perfection on the Arteflame grill using the reverse sear method for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Zest and juice of 2 California oranges
• Zest and juice of 1 California lemon
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood over the napkins and light them.
4. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. Season each piece with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Make the citrus glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix the orange zest, orange juice, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes.

Step 4: Sear the chicken

1. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken skin-side down on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each piece for about 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.

Step 5: Cook the chicken on the flat top

1. Move the chicken to the flat cooktop griddle to continue cooking.
2. Baste generously with the citrus glaze every few minutes.
3. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (for breasts) and 175°F (for thighs).

Step 6: Rest and serve

1. Remove the chicken from the grill when the internal temperature is 15°F below the target temp.
2. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve.

Tips

• Always let meat rest after grilling to retain juices.
• Use a digital thermometer for precise temperature control.
• Adjust the heat zones on the Arteflame grill for even cooking.

Variations

1. Spicy Chipotle Citrus: Add 1 tbsp chipotle powder to the glaze.
2. Herb-Infused Citrus: Mix in 1 tbsp fresh rosemary and thyme.
3. Tropical Citrus: Add 1/4 cup pineapple juice to the glaze.
4. Garlic Butter Citrus: Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and extra butter.
5. Sweet and Smoky BBQ: Blend in 2 tbsp of your favorite BBQ sauce.

Conclusion

Grilling BBQ Chicken with California Citrus Glaze on the Arteflame grill brings out incredible flavors and textures. With the reverse sear method and a sweet, tangy glaze, this dish is a surefire hit. Enjoy the perfect balance of charred, juicy chicken with bright citrus notes.

Best pairings

• Grilled asparagus with a squeeze of lemon
• Charred corn on the cob with butter
• Fresh arugula salad with a citrus vinaigrette
• Warm grilled garlic bread
• A crisp California Chardonnay or pale ale