The Delmarva Peninsula, encompassing parts of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, boasts a rich culinary heritage. While traditional Delmarva cuisine often features seafood, we can adapt its spirit—that emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and simple, bold flavors—to create a carnivore-friendly BBQ chicken recipe. This recipe focuses on rich, smoky flavors, perfect for those following a carnivore diet.
What Makes This Recipe Carnivore-Friendly?
This recipe adheres strictly to the principles of the carnivore diet, meaning it contains only animal products. There are no added sugars, grains, legumes, vegetables, or fruits. The focus is entirely on the meat and the flavorful sauce created with animal-based ingredients.
Delmarva BBQ Chicken: Carnivore Recipe
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
- Chicken: 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts (about 2 lbs total)
- BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup beef bone broth (homemade is best!)
- 1/4 cup rendered chicken fat (or tallow)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (fermented is ideal for gut health)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (ensure it's carnivore-friendly, check ingredients carefully)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Small saucepan
- Grill or smoker (a grill pan works in a pinch)
Instructions:
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the bone broth, chicken fat, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely on the grill.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or smoker to medium-high heat (around 350-375°F). Grill the chicken for approximately 20-25 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baste with the BBQ sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat. Serve generously with remaining BBQ sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, bone-in chicken breasts work well in this recipe. However, thighs tend to be more forgiving and less likely to dry out during grilling, especially on a carnivore diet where added moisture from vegetables is absent.
What kind of Worcestershire sauce is carnivore-friendly?
Make sure to check the ingredient list carefully. Many brands contain sugar or other non-carnivore ingredients. Some brands specifically market carnivore-friendly versions, so look for those.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for about 45-60 minutes, basting with the BBQ sauce halfway through. However, grilling or smoking will impart a deeper, smokier flavor.
How can I make this recipe even richer?
Adding a tablespoon or two of rendered beef tallow to the BBQ sauce will intensify the richness and flavor.
Can I use this BBQ sauce on other meats?
Absolutely! This BBQ sauce is versatile and delicious on other carnivore-friendly meats like ribs, pork chops, or even steak.
This Delmarva-inspired BBQ chicken recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal for those following a carnivore diet. Enjoy the smoky, flavorful experience! Remember to adjust seasonings to your personal preference. Happy grilling!
