Category: From the Vortex

Honey Spice Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Making “fried’ chicken on my Weber Performer grill using the Vortex insert has become a big addiction of mine. I make it often, many different ways, like this honey spice fried chicken using the Vortex. The end result tastes and feels like real fried chicken, but of course you don’t deep fry it in oil. It’s amazingly easy to make and you can change up the sauce at the end and make a new dish every time. Really great stuff!

Honey Spice Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This time I brushed the chicken with a wonderful honey spicy sauce. The skin crisped up perfectly and the sauce gave it a nice sweet and spicy kick.
Since I was using bone-in split chicken breasts when I made this honey spice fried chicken I opted to use my bigger grill, the Performer, which is 22″ across. For legs or thighs or wings you can use a smaller grill (using the smaller Vortex insert and not the one for larger grills) if you wish, but for breasts you’ll need the larger space of the Performer (or the 22″ Weber Kettle).

The batter for the chicken does crisp up, so if you wish you can use skinless chicken breasts and still enjoy that wonderful crispy fried crunch.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg

I have a not-even-spicy honey fried chicken recipe too! And my buttery garlic fried chicken using the Vortex is always a hit!

Honey Spice Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Honey Spice Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The batter for the chicken does crisp up, so if you wish you can use skinless chicken breasts and still enjoy that wonderful crispy fried crunch.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 246kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

For the “Fried” Chicken

For the sauce

Instructions

For the “Fried” Chicken

  • Set up your grill for cooking with the Vortex insert. Get the coals good and lit before starting.
  • In a pie pan, beat the eggs with the water.
  • In another pie pan, combine the flour, salt, pepper and garlic powder.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken in the egg mixture and coat well.
  • Transfer the chicken to the flour mixture and coat well. Shake off any excess flour.
  • Transfer chicken to the grill, placing along the edges with the thickest parts of the chicken towards the center where the Vortex is located.
  • Cover the grill and cook for 15 minutes.
  • Rotate the lid 90 degrees and continue cooking for 15 more minutes.
  • Rotate the lid 90 degrees and continue cooking for 15 more minutes.
  • Check for doneness in the thickest parts of the chicken. If it needs more time, rotate the lid 90 degrees and continue cooking for 15 more minutes.
  • Brush with sauce and cook another 5 minutes.

For the sauce

  • Whisk together all ingredients.

Nutrition

Calories: 246kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 1133mg | Potassium: 152mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 26mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I think I could ‘fry’ chicken on my grill using the Vortex every day of the week. The possibilities are endless but the results are always fantastic. Crunchy skin and tender, juicy meat. I prefer to use bone-in chicken thighs, with the skin on. They have the most flavor and are the most tender. The coating is simple. This time, for a change, I drizzled the fried chicken with a bit of honey. Honey fried chicken using the Vortex was crazy good.

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Since the honey adds a good bit of sweetness to the chicken you might want to offset that a bit by adding a bit of heat. A little cayenne pepper in the dredge will get you that. Or try chipotle powder for a little kick and little smokiness. Just don’t skip the honey. After all, you’re making honey fried chicken using the Vortex. And if you want, you can make a spicy version too!

Also try my buttermilk fried chicken using the Vortex and my Amish fried chicken.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

 This time, for a change, I drizzled the fried chicken with a bit of honey. Honey fried chicken using the Vortex was crazy good.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, honey, Vortex
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 1388kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Nancy Fuller

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8-10 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on (or whatever cuts you prefer)
  • Vegetable oil

For the brine

For the dredge

For serving

  • 1 cup honey warmed (thinned with a splash of water if desired)

Instructions

  • Place the chicken into a large resealable container.
  • Whisk together the brine ingredients and add to the chicken.
  • Refrigerate for 4 hours.
  • Fire up your Vortex. Fill it completely with charcoal and let them get good and hot.
  • Combine the dredge ingredients in a large pie pan or resealable baggie.
  • Working in batches, remove chicken from brine. Shake off the excess then coat in the dredge (if using a bag just put 2-3 pieces in at a time, seal, and shake to coat).
  • Transfer to the grill around the Vortex.
  • Cook for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several places. Optionally, turn the lid every 15 minutes. I’ve found that on smaller grills turning the lid isn’t necessary, but on a 26″ grill you might want to turn it.
  • Brush chicken very lightly with the oil and let cook another 5 minutes.
  • Remove and drizzle with the warmed honey. Serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 1388kcal | Carbohydrates: 185g | Protein: 59g | Fat: 47g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 248mg | Sodium: 3490mg | Potassium: 1085mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 82g | Vitamin A: 696IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 347mg | Iron: 8mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Pizza Rolls using the Vortex

I make a lot of chicken on my Vortex. Wings and ‘fried’ chicken are my favorites. And sometimes there’s a bit of space left around the grill. That’s when Totino’s pizza rolls make an appearance. Nothing fru-fru, nothing complicated. But, oh so tasty. Pizza rolls using the Vortex gives them an extra-special crunchiness that you just can’t get in the oven.

Pizza Rolls using the Vortex

Pizza rolls using the Vortex don’t take as long as chicken to cook, so you can either put them on later if you want them with your chicken, or start them at the same time so you have a little treat to much on while the chicken is finishing. If you are sharing space on the grill with raw chicken make sure that the rolls and chicken don’t touch. I like to put them on opposite sides of the grill.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg

I like to serve my pizza rolls with a bit of warmed pizza sauce for dipping.

Also try chicken fingers on the Vortex.

Pizza Rolls using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Pizza Rolls using the Vortex

I make a lot of chicken on my Vortex. Wings and ‘fried’ chicken are my favorites. And sometimes there’s a bit of space left around the grill. That’s when Totino’s pizza rolls make an appearance.
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword pizza rolls, Vortex
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 4kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the pizza rolls around a lit, hot Vortex (around 500 F).
  • Close the lid and heat for 20 minutes. Flip after 10 minutes.
  • Serve with warmed sauce for dipping, if desired.

Notes

Nutritional values do not include the pizza rolls.

Nutrition

Calories: 4kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 80mg | Potassium: 51mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 66IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Bloody Mary Buffalo Chicken using the Vortex

After making a big batch of crazy delicious Bloody Mary chicken wings I knew exactly what I needed to make next: Bloody Mary Buffalo Chicken, using a Vortex insert on my Weber Performer grill. Crispy, crunchy, moist, tender, juicy. And spicy. Very spicy, if that’s how you want it! If no one told you that this chicken was made on a grill you’d swear it was done in a deep-fryer!

Bloody Mary Buffalo Chicken using the Vortex

Using the Vortex makes making seems-like-fried chicken an absolute breeze. It’s something I make often, and as often as I can! It’s amazing how many different ways you can make chicken like this. Often I’ll do traditional, like grandma’s fried chicken. Then sometimes I’ll come up with something totally different, like this Bloody Mary Buffalo Chicken using the Vortex.

The fried chicken mix recipe can be used for any chicken, it doesn’t have to be Bloody Mary flavored. The coating adheres perfectly and gives you that perfect crispy crust. For me, my go-to chicken on the Vortex is bone-in, skin-on thighs. They are the juiciest and have the most flavor.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg

I love making fried chicken using my Vortex. This Bloody Mary Buffalo version is just another reason why! Try this recipe with my Bloody Mary rim salt instead!

Bloody Mary Buffalo Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Bloody Mary Buffalo Chicken using the Vortex

The fried chicken mix recipe can be used for any chicken, it doesn’t have to be Bloody Mary flavored. The coating adheres perfectly and gives you that perfect crispy crust. For me, my go-to chicken on the Vortex is bone-in, skin-on thighs. They are the juiciest and have the most flavor.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4
Calories 898kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken pieces I prefer skin-on chicken thighs
  • Vegetable oil
  • Fried chicken mix below
  • Bloody Mary Seasoning below
  • Bloody Mary Buffalo sauce below

For the fried chicken mix

For the Bloody Mary seasoning (makes enough for the chicken with some leftover for making Bloody Marys!)

For the Bloody Mary Buffalo sauce

Instructions

  • Fire up your Kettle grill with the Vortex loaded with charcoal. Don’t start cooking until the coals are all lit and starting to ash over.
  • Rinse the chicken and pat dry.
  • Place the fried chicken mix into a large baggie.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with vegetable oil.
  • Working in batches, place chicken pieces in the bag. Seal and shake. Shake off excess.
  • Transfer chicken to the grill along the edges, skin-side up.
  • Cover and cook for 45 minutes, turning the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes.
  • After 45 minutes lightly brush the chicken with the Buffalo sauce. Don’t be shy. Note: If you are using pieces other than split chicken breasts, you’ll want to rotate the pieces at this time.
  • Cover and cook another 15 minutes or until the chicken hits 160 F. Fee free to brush with more Buffalo sauce, to taste.
  • Remove and let rest and come to 165 F before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 898kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 49g | Fat: 59g | Saturated Fat: 25g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 234mg | Sodium: 12114mg | Potassium: 632mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2247IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 6mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Dip-Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This dip-fried chicken using the Vortex is mighty darned near the same as my equally-as-crazy-good Nashville hot chicken. The crunchy skin is just a bit different. The sauce is just a bit different, and it’s mighty darned spicy to boot. But the chicken is still unbelievably moist, tender, and delicious. I’ve said it a thousand times: nothing beats ‘fried’ chicken made using the Vortex. Nothing. Every time you make fried chicken using the Vortex you’ll be amazed at how much it’s as good as deep-fried chicken (if not better!) but without the oil, the fryer and the fuss!

Dip-Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I’m a big fan of spicy foods. Not over-the-top, curled-up-on-the-floor-crying spicy. But good spicy. The kind where you can still taste the food. I thought this dip-fried chicken using the Vortex nailed the spicy factor just perfectly. But I warn you, it is spicy. I suggest that once you start eating you don’t stop. Because that’s when the burn comes and it’ll stick around for a bit, too. It’s a good burn, a tasty burn, the best kind. You might want to taste it first if you’re spice-fearful.

Sure, you can cut back on the amount of hot sauce if you wish. Or add more.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Dip-Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Dip-Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This dip-fried chicken is unbelievably moist, tender, and delicious. I’ve said it a thousand times: nothing beats ‘fried’ chicken made using the Vortex. Nothing.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 6 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 567kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 6-8 pieces chicken use bone-in, skin-on for the best results

For the brine

For the coating

For the dipping sauce

Instructions

For the brine

  • Place the brine ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir until the honey and salt are dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
  • Place the chicken in a large resealable container. Add the brine. If it doesn't cover the chicken stir in more water. Cover and refrigerate for 3 1/2 hours.

For the coating

  • Combine the coating ingredients in a large bowl using your fingers. You want the mixture to be coarse.
  • Remove the chicken from the brine. Do not rinse or pat dry. Place into the breading and coat completely. Transfer to a wire rack and place into the fridge for 30 minutes.
  • Fire up your Vortex. Get the coals good and lit and lightly ashed. Remove the chicken from the fridge and place around the fire. Close the lid and cook 30-45 minutes, possibly longer, turning the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes.
  • Test the chicken for doneness, you want 160 F in the white meat and 175 in the dark. Remove to a wire rack to cool slightly.

For the dipping sauce

  • Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Reduce heat and keep warm until ready to use.
  • Dunk chicken in the dipping sauce and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 567kcal | Carbohydrates: 99g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 6153mg | Potassium: 404mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 45g | Vitamin A: 22IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 127mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Fried Chicken with Gravy using the Vortex

I’ve had Grandma’s fried chicken with gravy. It was crazy good. Cooked in oil in a cast-iron skillet over a hot gas stove, it was the food of dreams. I’ve now had the pleasure of enjoying that same great crunchy, moist chicken with a delicious gravy, all cooked using my Vortex insert. Fried chicken with gravy using the Vortex is amazingly great chicken, and all without deep-frying.

Fried Chicken with Gravy using the Vortex

Fried chicken with gravy using the Vortex takes a bit more work than just making fried chicken on the grill. The gravy is the special addition, and to make it you need drippings from the chicken. Normally when I ‘fry’ chicken on my charcoal grill the drippings end up disappearing into the bottom of the grill. To make the gravy I had to ‘capture’ some of those drippings using disposable pans positioned underneath the chicken. I found some small aluminum pans at our grocery store that worked just fine, capturing all that dripping goodness.

Also try my more traditional (but dang good) fried chicken on the Vortex. Nothing beats chicken on a Vortex. Nothing.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Fried Chicken with Gravy using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Fried Chicken with Gravy using the Vortex

This right here is amazingly great chicken, and all without deep-frying.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 45 minutes
Servings 8 pieces
Calories 227kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Gravy:

Instructions

For the chicken

  • Put the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Add enough cold water to cover the chicken. Stir in 2 tablespoons of salt. Cover and refrigerate for 4-12 hours.
  • Fire up your Vortex. Let the coals get just ashed over. To make gravy place small disposable aluminum pans under a few of the pieces of chicken.
  • Remove chicken from the brine. Do not rinse. In a pie plate or shallow bowl, combine the flour and salt and pepper to taste. Dredge the chicken pieces in the flour, coating completely. Shake off any excess.
  • Transfer the chicken to the grill around the Vortex. Cover and cook 45 minutes, rotating the lid every 15 minutes. Check for near doneness (160 F for white meat, 170 F for dark meat) in several places before removing.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with oil and cook another 2-3 minutes to crisp the skin and finish cooking the chicken (165 F for white meat, 175 F for dark). Remove to a plate or cooling rack.

For the gravy

  • Carefully remove the disposable pans containing the drippings. Don’t spill it onto the Vortex or it will flame up. You’ll need 1/4 cup of the drippings.
  • Place drippings into a medium skillet over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until browned, about 1 minute. 
  • Add milk and whisk until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Serve chicken with the gravy and devour.

Nutrition

Calories: 227kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 12mg | Sodium: 28mg | Potassium: 120mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 100IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 74mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Louisiana Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Any day that includes firing up my Weber Performer grill outfitted with a Vortex insert and cooking ‘fried’ chicken is a good day. Actually, it’s a fantastic day. I’m willing to bet that in a blind taste test you could not tell the difference between this Louisiana crispy fried chicken using the Vortex and chicken fried in oil. And you’ll never go back to that deep-fried stuff either. This way is easier, tastier and just flat-out better.

Louisiana Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This is seriously crispy chicken. Seasoned perfectly. Moist and tender meat. Make extra because you’ll need it. And don’t expect any leftovers either.

If you want a little extra crunchy skin, brush the tops of the chicken with just a little bit of vegetable oil 5 minutes before removing them from the grill. That’s all it takes.

I’ve made fried chicken using the Vortex many, many times. Sometimes I make my own batter or coating, sometimes I just use store-bought, like the Louisiana Seasoned Crispy Fried Chicken batter I used this time. No matter what I use, it’s always fantastic. You can’t wrong with this Louisiana crispy fried chicken using the Vortex. It’ll amaze you and your guests.

Also try my spicy BBQ fried chicken if you want a little more kick to your ‘fried’ chicken.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Louisiana Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Louisiana Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This is seriously crispy chicken. Seasoned perfectly. Moist and tender meat. Make extra because you’ll need it. And don’t expect any leftovers either.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 495kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Vortex, filling it all the way with charcoal. Let the coals get good and hot, keeping both the top and bottom grill vents wide open.
  • Rinse the chicken pieces and pat dry.
  • Working in batches, place a little of the fry batter into a resealable bag or container and add a few pieces of chicken. Seal and toss gently to coat.
  • Transfer chicken to the grill around the Vortex.
  • Cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several locations. I have not found it necessary to rotate the grill lid, but if you want to, rotate it 45 degrees every 15 minutes.

Notes

I prefer to cook ‘fried’ chicken on a 22″ grill using the Vortex. You can cook them on an 18″ grill too, but sometimes the edges nearest the Vortex get a little over-cooked.

Nutrition

Calories: 495kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 37g | Fat: 38g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 221mg | Sodium: 174mg | Potassium: 463mg | Vitamin A: 176IU | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This. Right. Here. Absolutely divine ‘fried’ chicken, hot off my charcoal grill. Yes, grill. Before I got a Vortex, I had no idea that not only could I make fried chicken on a grill, I could make it with almost no effort at all. No deep fryer, no mess.

This spicy buttermilk fried chicken using the Vortex is beyond tender and juicy. It has a wonderful spicy kick to it, but it’s not overwhelming. And the skin? Oh, crunchy and delicious. Perfection without the oil.

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

There’s absolutely nothing I would change about this recipe for spicy buttermilk fried chicken using the Vortex. I enjoyed every single bite immensely. I think it’s the perfect fried chicken, and considering that I made it on my Weber grill without deep frying it, I just could not possibly be happier with it.

To make sure the skin crisps up good and that the chicken pieces cook evenly, do not over-crowd them on your grill. Also, I do not flip my chicken as it cooks. I put it on, close the lid, and don’t mess with the chicken for 45 minutes. Just let it do it’s thing.

I also make a crazy good spicy BBQ chicken using the Vortex. And Granny’s Secret fried chicken and my Korean fried chicken are amazing too!

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This. Right. Here. Absolutely divine ‘fried’ chicken, hot off my charcoal grill. Yes, grill.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings 10 pieces
Calories 565kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Queenslee Appetit

Equipment

Ingredients

For the buttermilk marinade

For the seasoning mix

For the chicken coating

For the egg wash

For cooking

Instructions

  • Combine the buttermilk marinade ingredients (except for the chicken) in a large resealable container.
  • Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
  • Combine all of the seasoning mix ingredients. Divide into two equally-sized batches.
  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex in the center. Make sure the lid and bottom air vents are open.
  • Whisk together the coating ingredients and place into a large resealable bag.
  • Whisk together the egg wash ingredients and place into a pie pan or large bowl.
  • Working in batches, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off the excess.
  • Sprinkle with one half of the seasoning mix.
  • Transfer to the egg wash and coat well.
  • Shake off the excess and add to the baggie. Seal and shake to coat.
  • Arrange chicken around the edges of your grill (once the coals are hot and ashed over). Cover and cook for 45 minutes, rotating the lid every 15 minutes.
  • The last 5 minutes of cooking lightly brush the tops of the chicken with the oil to help crisp the skin even more.
  • Once chicken is done (165 F as measured in several places), remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

To cook 10-12 pieces of chicken at once you’ll need at least a 22″ charcoal grill

Nutrition

Calories: 565kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 26g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 165mg | Sodium: 4690mg | Potassium: 721mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 1313IU | Vitamin C: 22mg | Calcium: 371mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Cajun Injected Chicken using the Vortex

I cook a lot, and I do mean a lot, of chicken using my Vortex. Wings and thighs are my favorite and I’ve cooked them countless delicious ways. But I’d never injected my chicken until now. This Cajun injected chicken using the Vortex is just packed with bite after bite of crazy good flavor. Moist doesn’t even come close to describing the meat. And yet it still has the perfect texture and that great crunchy skin.

Cajun Injected Chicken using the Vortex

Store-bought Cajun seasoning can be a bit on the salty side. If you prefer to use less salt I recommend that you make your own seasoning and use as much or as little salt as you wish. That way you can tailor your Cajun injected chicken using the Vortex to your individual tastes.

You’ll also want to make my Vortex Nashville hot chicken and my easy Cajun fried chicken.

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Cajun Injected Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cajun Injected Chicken using the Vortex

I cook a lot, and I do mean a lot, of chicken using my Vortex. Wings and thighs are my favorite and I’ve cooked them countless delicious ways. But I’d never injected my chicken until now. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, injected, Vortex
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings 8 servings
Calories 319kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken

  • 3-4 pounds chicken pieces I used skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs
  • ¼ cup Cajun seasoning

For the injection

Instructions

  • Rub the chicken with the seasoning. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  • Remove chicken from the fridge and let come to room temperature while you fire up your grill with the Vortex insert.
  • While the coals are getting hot, combine the injection ingredients. Using a syringe, inject the liquid in several spots in each piece of chicken.
  • Transfer chicken to the edges of your grill, around the Vortex.
  • Cook for approximately 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several locations.

Notes

Store-bought Cajun seasoning can be quite salty. For a less salty version make your own and reduce the amount of salt.

Nutrition

Calories: 319kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 102mg | Sodium: 86mg | Potassium: 347mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 2864IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC

Buzznbeez Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex

You definitely don’t have to brine your chicken to ‘fry’ it using the Vortex, but oh boy, does it make a difference. I was watching Eat Street on the Cooking Channel when they did a segment on the Buzznbeez food truck in Tempe, Arizona. They make my kind of food: soul food. Which means southern fried chicken. Dang good looking southern fried chicken. I proceeded to find the recipe for Buzznbeez southern fried chicken and make it using the Vortex.

Buzznbeez Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This right here is great eats. Tender, juicy, beyond flavorful, and oh…. that skin… and that beautiful color. Every bite of this Buzznbeez Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex was a dream come true. I’d make this again and again.

Brushing the chicken with a light coat of oil just before removing it from the grill will give the skin a bit more crunch. It’s optional, but I do recommend it!

For a little twist, I used my homemade smoked sea salt in the brine. It added a slight smokiness. You can get the same effect by placing a chunk of wood over your Vortex while cooking the chicken (something I also like to do when cooking wings on my Vortex, something I do almost daily!).

VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size - For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Buzznbeez Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Buzznbeez Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This right here is great eats. Tender, juicy, beyond flavorful, and oh…. that skin… and that beautiful color. Every bite was a dream come true. I’d make this again and again.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, southern, Vortex
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 67kcal
Author Based on a dish from the Buzznbeez Food Truck

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 8 pieces chicken I prefer skin-in chicken thighs
  • Brine see below
  • Coating see below
  • Vegetable oil

For the brine

For the coating

Instructions

  • Place chicken into a large bowl or resealable container.
  • Combine the brine ingredients and add to the chicken. Toss to coat.
  • Slowly add enough cold water to just cover the chicken.
  • Cover or seal and refrigerate overnight (or up to 24 hours).
  • Fire up your grill for cooking with the Vortex.
  • Combine the coating ingredients.
  • Remove chicken pieces from the brine. Shake off excess then toss in the coating, cover the pieces completely.
  • Transfer chicken to the grill around the Vortex.
  • Cover and cook for 45 minutes or until chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several places.
  • Lightly brush with a little vegetable oil and cook another 2-3 minutes to crisp up the skin.
  • Remove and let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 67kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 1755mg | Potassium: 53mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 232IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado - 3 PC
Genuine Medium BBQ Vortex GIFT PACK for wsm Kettle 22 26.75 Big Green Egg kamado – 3 PC