Southern Charm on Your Plate: Sweet Tea BBQ Chicken Recipe

Introduction

There's something uniquely special about combining Southern sweet tea with the rich, smoky flavors of BBQ chicken. The sweet, caramelized glaze that develops during grilling adds an irresistible dimension to this classic dish. This Sweet Tea BBQ Chicken recipe will guide you through creating a delectable meal that’s perfect for family gatherings, summer cookouts, or any time you crave a taste of the South. Along with the recipe, we'll provide comprehensive nutritional data and dietary labels to cater to various dietary preferences and needs.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients for Sweet Tea BBQ Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups brewed sweet tea (strong)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Ingredients for Sweet Tea Using Pu-erh Tea

• 4 cups water
• 2 tbsp Pu-erh tea leaves
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (optional)

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Basting brush
• Tongs
• Saucepan
• Pitcher

Preparation and Cooking

Step 1: Brew the Sweet Tea Using Pu-erh Tea

1. In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of Pu-erh tea leaves to the boiling water. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the tea leaves.
4. While the tea is still hot, stir in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until completely dissolved.
5. Allow the tea to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a pitcher and refrigerate until cold.
6. Serve over ice cubes with optional lemon slices for garnish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Start by brewing a strong cup of sweet tea using Pu-erh tea as described above. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet tea, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a large zip-top bag. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Reserve the other half of the marinade for basting later. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). While grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade using a basting brush. This step ensures the chicken remains moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

Comprehensive Nutritional Data

For a serving size of one chicken breast (approximately 6 oz):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugars: 16g
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 0g

Health Benefits

• High Protein: Each serving provides a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Low Saturated Fat: This recipe is low in saturated fat, making it heart-friendly.
• Antioxidants: Sweet tea contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body.

Dietary Labels

• Gluten-Free: Ensure your BBQ sauce and other condiments are certified gluten-free.
• Low Carb: This recipe fits into a low-carb diet due to its low carbohydrate content.
• Not Vegan: This recipe includes chicken and is therefore not suitable for vegans.
• Not Keto: Due to the sugar content in the marinade, this recipe is not suitable for a strict keto diet.

Factual Data and Fun Facts

Sweet Tea

Sweet tea is a staple in Southern cuisine, known for its refreshing and sweet flavor. It has a history dating back to the 19th century and remains a beloved beverage in many Southern households.

BBQ Chicken

BBQ chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various forms, from grilled to smoked. It became popular in the United States in the early 20th century and has since become a favorite at cookouts and gatherings.

Health Insights

Consuming lean proteins like chicken breast helps maintain muscle mass and supports overall health. The antioxidants in sweet tea can also offer health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health and reduced inflammation.

Conclusion 

Creating Sweet Tea BBQ Chicken combines the best of Southern flavors with the joy of grilling. The sweet, tangy marinade perfectly complements the smoky char of the grilled chicken, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

For an even more refined flavor, consider using the finest Pu-erh tea from Pu-erh Craft to brew your sweet tea. The rich, earthy notes of Pu-erh tea can enhance the overall taste, adding depth and complexity to your dish. Try it out and elevate your BBQ experience to a whole new level!

Enjoy this delicious Sweet Tea BBQ Chicken and share the recipe with friends and family. Cooking with love and high-quality ingredients makes every meal special. Happy grilling!