The Delmarva Peninsula, that unique stretch of land encompassing parts of Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia, boasts a rich culinary heritage. This recipe puts a carnivore-friendly spin on a classic Delmarva BBQ chicken, focusing on rich, savory flavors without relying on added sugars or non-carnivore ingredients. This isn't your typical sweet and smoky BBQ; it's a deeply savory and satisfying feast.
What Makes This Recipe Carnivore-Friendly?
This recipe is designed for those following a carnivore diet, meaning it excludes all plant-based foods. We'll focus on maximizing the flavor of the chicken using a rich, savory sauce made primarily from animal fats and seasonings. No added sugars, vinegars, or other plant-based components are included.
Ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 1 whole (approximately 4-5 pound) chicken, cut into 8 pieces OR 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks
- For the Carnivore BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup rendered chicken fat (or beef tallow)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (homemade, from bones)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (check ingredients for carnivore compliance—some brands contain added sugars or other non-carnivore ingredients)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the rendered chicken fat, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, sea 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.
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Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
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Marinate (Optional): For deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken pieces in half of the BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
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Bake or Grill: Place the chicken pieces in a single layer in a baking dish or on a grill (if grilling, ensure the grill is preheated and lightly oiled). Brush generously with the remaining BBQ sauce.
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Cook: Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If grilling, cook for about 20-25 minutes per side, basting frequently with the sauce.
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Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Delmarva BBQ chicken hot, directly from the oven or grill. Consider serving it with a side of roasted bone marrow (another delicious carnivore-friendly option) for a truly decadent meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best way to render chicken fat?
Rendering chicken fat is a simple process. Simply cut up leftover chicken skin and fat and place it in a saucepan over low heat. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the fat renders out and the skin becomes crispy. Strain the fat through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
Can I use this recipe with chicken wings?
Absolutely! Chicken wings work exceptionally well with this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed, ensuring they are cooked through and crispy.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen.
Are there any substitutes for Worcestershire sauce in a carnivore diet?
Finding a truly carnivore-compliant Worcestershire sauce can be tricky, as many contain added sugars or other non-carnivore ingredients. You might try making your own from scratch using a recipe specifically designed for carnivore diets, or omitting it entirely if necessary. The other seasonings will still provide ample flavor.
This Delmarva BBQ chicken recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying carnivore-friendly meal. Remember to always check ingredient labels to ensure compliance with your dietary restrictions. Enjoy!
