Author: Mike

Quick Fix Asian Fries

Since I was grilling up a few Asian pork burgers for dinner, I needed some fries to go with them. Something with a bit of Asian zing to it. So, I grabbed a bag of frozen fries out of the freezer, baked them up, and tossed them with a few Asian ingredients. In no time, my quick fix Asian fries were on the table, ready to be devoured.

Quick Fix Asian Fries

Spicy, Yummy Fries! At Last!

These quick fix Asian fries do have a bit of a spicy kick to them. That’s probably why we loved them so much. Get your fries good and crunchy. If they sit for long in the sauce they might get a bit soggy. They really won’t last long so it’s not much of a worry.

Zulay Kitchen Premium Garlic Press Set - Soft, Easy-Squeeze Ergonomic Handle with Silicone Garlic Peeler & Cleaning Brush - 3-Piece Garlic Mincer Tool - Sturdy Easy to Clean Garlic Crusher - Silver
Zulay Kitchen Premium Garlic Press Set – Soft, Easy-Squeeze Ergonomic Handle with Silicone Garlic Peeler & Cleaning Brush – 3-Piece Garlic Mincer Tool – Sturdy Easy to Clean Garlic Crusher – Silver

Also try my quick fix seasoned tater tots.

Quick Fix Asian Fries
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5 from 1 vote

Quick Fix Asian Fries

Since I was grilling up a few Asian pork burgers for dinner, I needed some fries to go with them. Something with a bit of Asian zing to it. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword Asian, fries
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 315kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Guy Fieri

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound French fries frozen

For the sauce

Instructions

  • Cook the fries as per package instructions.
  • Meanwhile, create the sauce by placing all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk to combine.
  • When the fries are done transfer them to a large bowl.
  • Drizzle the fries with the sauce and toss lightly to coat. Serve.

Notes

It’s ok to add a bit of minced garlic to the sauce if you want.

Nutrition

Calories: 315kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 683mg | Potassium: 521mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 90IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 19mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Herby Ranch Dressing

We’ve been enjoying a week of grilling marinated chicken breasts, sliced thin, served on top of fresh greens with homemade salad dressings, like this herby Ranch dressing. I also mix up the salad toppings to keep things new and exciting. In no time we have a great salad for dinner.

Herby Ranch Dressing

A Twist On The Classic Dressing

This herby Ranch dressing has the flavors of a traditional Ranch, with an extra herb kick. Fresh herbs make it the best, but you can substitute dried, like I did. Just make sure you crumble the dried herbs first. You don’t want to bite into a big ole chunk of oregano, ya know!

Check out my new site, Dress My Salad, for more great salad dressing ideas!

These little sauce dipping cups are great for serving salad dressings. They keep me from over-dressing my salads, which is something I’m prone to do since I’m a dressing-aholic (and in particular, a Ranch-aholic). They’re easy to clean up, too. And they’re also great for dipping nuggets, tenders or even chicken wings.

(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of - 1.5oz: 12 of - 2.5oz)
(24 Pack, 2 Sizes) Small Sauce Cups, Stainless Steel Ramekin Dipping Sauce Cup, Commercial Grade Individual Round Condiment Cups (12 of – 1.5oz: 12 of – 2.5oz)

Also try my dill ranch dressing and my amped-up Thai sweet chili dressing.

Herby Ranch Dressing
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Herby Ranch Dressing

This dressing has the flavors of a traditional Ranch, with an extra herb kick. Fresh herbs make it the best, but you can substitute dried, like I did. 
Course Salad Dressing
Cuisine American
Keyword homemade salad dressing
Prep Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 2 cups
Calories 941kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Ree Drummond

Equipment

Ingredients

If using fresh herbs

  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves chopped
  • ¼ cup Italian flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano chopped

If using dried herbs

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients, adding salt and pepper to taste.
  • Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving.
  • Add more buttermilk if the dressing is too thick.

Notes

Stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 941kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 98g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 887mg | Potassium: 425mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1611IU | Vitamin C: 14mg | Calcium: 312mg | Iron: 5mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Apple Juice Brined Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

This is how chicken is meant to be. Apple juice brined chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is everything you could hope for. Sure, it’s packed with flavor. But it’s much more than tasty. It’s incredibly tender and juicy. You’ll actually gasp with your first bite. How can it be so good?

So, if you follow this blog you know that I make a LOT of chicken on my Big Easy, and I do mean a lot. It is always great but this Apple Juice Brined Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is a step beyond great.

Apple Juice Brined Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Hints of Asian-Inspired Flavors

The soy sauce and garlic add just the right hint of Asian flavors to this apple juice brined chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy. The brine takes care of everything else, keeping the meat perfect. All in all, I ended up cooking 12 split chicken breasts (in batches) that were marinated in this brine. The chicken is not just good as-is, but it also makes for fantastic chicken salad.

Also give my apple ale beer can chicken a try! And my easy marinated Big Easy chicken is fantastic too!

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Apple Juice Brined Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Apple Juice Brined Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Apple juice brined chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is everything you could hope for, from a hint of Asian flavors to incredible juicy, tender meat.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, brined, Char-Broil, chicken
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 144kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Plain Chicken

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place the chicken in a large baggie or resealable container.
  • Whisk together the remaining ingredients and add to the chicken. Seal and shake to coat.
  • Refrigerate for 1-3 hours.
  • Fire up your Big Easy. Remove the chicken from the marinade and transfer to the Big Easy basket. Depending on the size of the chicken, you may have to cook them in batches or use a Big Easy bunk bed basket.
  • Cook for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several places.

Notes

I prefer to use bone-in split chicken breasts for this recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 144kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 545mg | Potassium: 90mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Smoked BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

I love me some smoked meats! Beef, pork, chicken, you name it! One of my favorites is smoked chicken thighs. For me thighs are the way to go when it comes to smoking chicken. They’re more tender, juicier, and definitely more flavorful than white meat (even if you take the time to brine it). Smoked thighs shred easily, making for the perfect smoked BBQ chicken sandwiches.

Smoked BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

Add Crunch For A Great Contrast

I like to top all of my pulled meat sandwiches with slaw. And specially my Delta slaw. It adds a great crunch and a little vinegary tang to offset the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. If I don’t have any slaw on hand then I go with my second choice: dill pickle slices. I love a little crunch with my smoked BBQ chicken sandwiches!

Sweet Baby Ray's Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT
Sweet Baby Ray’s Varierty Pack, 1 Original Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Hickory and Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Sweet N Spicy Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, Honey Barbecue Sauce, 18 OZ, 1CT

If I’m reaching for a bottled BBQ sauce, I often go for Sweet Baby Ray’s.

Smoked BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Smoked BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

 Smoked thighs shred easily, making for the perfect smoked BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword BBQ, chicken, sandwich
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 149kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Warm the chicken with the BBQ sauce in a medium saucepan.
  • Top bun bottoms with the warmed chicken and the slaw.
  • And bun top and devour.

Notes

I like using a hickory-smoked flavor BBQ sauce in this chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 149kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 224mg | Potassium: 80mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 19IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 76mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Grilled Open-Faced Beef, Cheese and Gravy Sandwiches

These grilled open-faced beef, cheese and gravy sandwiches just blew us away. Cooked over charcoal, the sandwiches take on a lovely light smoky flavor. The beef is tender, juicy and packed with flavor.  Covered in a tasty beef gravy, every bite is just fantastic. Served over thick, hearty grilled bread, it’s the sandwich you’ve been looking for.

Grilled Open-Faced Beef, Cheese and Gravy Sandwiches

Burgers With A Big Twist

There’s nothing I would really change about this recipe for Grilled Open-Faced Beef, Cheese and Gravy sandwiches. It’s a great alternative to cooking your usual burgers on the grill. You could make this with ground turkey, I would think, though you might have to add a little fat (vegetable oil) to keep the turkey from getting too tough when seared. You might want to grab a bottle of pre-made turkey gravy instead of making the beef version in the recipe below.

Nothing Fancy Here, Folks

The gravy on these sandwiches isn’t anything fancy or fru-fru. It’s simple and beefy and that’s it. It gets just the right thickness to pour over your sandwiches. You’ll get plenty of everything in each and every bite. No need to worry about those dreaded ‘no gravy’ bites.

Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black
Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black

Also try my open-faced turkey sandwiches.

Grilled Open-Faced Beef, Cheese and Gravy Sandwiches
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Grilled Open-Faced Beef, Cheese and Gravy Sandwiches

These grilled open-faced beef, cheese and gravy sandwiches just blew us away. Cooked over charcoal, the sandwiches take on a lovely light smoky flavor.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, gravy, sandwich
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 servings
Calories 870kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from the BBQ Pit Boys

Equipment

Ingredients

For the beef gravy

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill for direct and indirect cooking. Charcoal is definitely best for this recipe.
  • Form the beef into equal-sized patties.
  • Sear over direct heat on both sides, but do not cook all the way. Remove from heat and place in a large bowl.
  • Add the onion, tomatoes, chiles, Italian seasoning and rub. Use a potato masher or fork to combine all ingredients and break the ground beef into chunks.
  • Place a large cast iron pan on your grill over indirect heat.
  • Add the meat mixture and spread out evenly. Use a spatula or the back of a large spoon to lightly compact the meat into the pan.
  • Cook for 20 minutes or until the beef is cooked and most of the liquid has evaporated.
  • Top mixture with the cheese slices, cover and cook another 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
  • Remove the pan from the grill. Lightly toast the bread slices on the grill.
  • Serve meat over the bread topped with the beef gravy.

For the beef gravy

  • Add a small skillet to the grill over direct heat. Add the butter and melt.
  • Add the beef broth. Bring to a boil.
  • Add the butter to the skillet and melt.
  • Add 1 1/2 cups of broth. Bring to a boil.
  • Combine the flour and water in a cup and whisk into the beef broth.
  • Continue stirring until the gravy is thickened. Remove from heat.

Notes

You’ll need a large cast iron skillet. Remember to not grab the skillet handle without a heat-proof glove once you’ve placed it onto the grill.

Nutrition

Calories: 870kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 54g | Fat: 62g | Saturated Fat: 28g | Trans Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 206mg | Sodium: 975mg | Potassium: 833mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 482IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 438mg | Iron: 7mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms

*poof* And just like that, all of the grilled (I used my trust Weber grill) marinated mushrooms I had just made disappeared. No, it’s not because I’ve changed my name to Houdini. It’s these fantastic mushrooms that did it. Each bite is a wonderful combination of meaty mushroom, salty soy sauce, a few spices and a nice balsamic vinegar kick. To cool all that down I served the mushrooms with a homemade blue cheese dressing for dipping. I didn’t do a whole lot of dipping, but I sure did a whole lot of eating.

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms

Epic Mushrooms

This is just one of many, many great recipe ideas I found in Brother Jimmy’s BBQ: More Than 100 Recipes. Heck, the book was worth it just for these grilled marinated mushrooms. They are a common sight (for the minutes that they last) around here. You can’t go wrong with these yummy morsels.

I always use a grill basket when I make these mushrooms or just about any other dish like it. It sure makes for easy cooking. I don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. A basket also makes for super-easy cleanup!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my spicy grilled mushrooms.

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Grilled Marinated Mushrooms

*poof* And just like that, all of the grilled marinated mushrooms I had just made disappeared. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, marinade, mushroom
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 38kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Wipe the mushrooms clean.
  • In a large bowl combine the remaining ingredients except for the dressing.
  • Whisk until smooth.
  • Add the mushrooms to the marinade.
  • Toss gently to coat.
  • Let sit for 10 minutes, stirring one more time before using.
  • Fire up your grill for medium-high heat cooking.
  • Thread the mushrooms onto skewers or place in a grill basket. Reserve the marinade.
  • Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning once or twice.
  • Brush the mushrooms with the marinade while cooking.
  • Remove and serve.

Notes

I like to serve these with Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dunking.

Nutrition

Calories: 38kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 386mg | Potassium: 207mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 44IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 17mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Mom’s Bean Salad

I love my mom’s bean salad recipe. I’ve been eating it since I was a kid, even though I probably considered it a ‘weird’ food then. It’s simple but very good. I’ve found that it’s even better when it has been chilled until super-duper cold. After I make it I let it set in the fridge overnight before diving in. Well, ok, I have a few tastes first, but then I put it into the fridge.

Moms Bean Salad

Change It Up A Tad

You can use pretty much any beans you want, and you can skip the fresh carrots and use canned or frozen if you wish. Or substitute fresh beans for the canned and have a fantastic summertime salad. It’s ok if you change my mom’s bean salad. I won’t tell her.

I use a good quality vinegar for this salad and it comes out perfectly each and every time.

Pompeian Gourmet Red Wine Vinegar, Perfect for Salad Dressings, Marinades & Sauces, Naturally Gluten Free, 30 Ounce
Pompeian Gourmet Red Wine Vinegar, Perfect for Salad Dressings, Marinades & Sauces, Naturally Gluten Free, 30 Ounce
Pompeian Gourmet White Wine Vinegar, Bright & Fresh Flavor, Perfect for Salad Dressings, Shellfish & Sauces, 30 FL. OZ.
Pompeian Gourmet White Wine Vinegar, Bright & Fresh Flavor, Perfect for Salad Dressings, Shellfish & Sauces, 30 FL. OZ.

Also try Chez John’s Kaw-Cajun 4-bean salad. It’s unbelievably good.

Mom's Bean Salad
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Mom’s Bean Salad

I love my mom’s bean salad recipe. I’ve been eating it since I was a kid, even though I probably considered it a ‘weird’ food then. It’s simple but very good.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword bean salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 179kcal
Author Mom

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Bring a small pan or skillet of water to a boil.
  • Add the carrots and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender.
  • Remove, drain, and rinse with cold water.
  • Place cooked carrots, the wax and green beans, the kidney beans and the onion into a large bowl.
  • In a small bowl whisk together the garlic, vinegar and oil.
  • Add to the beans and toss to coat.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Refrigerate for 2 hours before serving.
  • Add more salt and pepper if desired.

Notes

Always stir before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Sodium: 27mg | Potassium: 141mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 6315IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 16mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)
Fullstar Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Cheese Grater Vegetable Spiralizer and Veggie Slicer for Cooking & Meal Prep, Kitchen Gadgets Organizer & Safety Glove Included (11 in 1, White)

Dried Basil on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I plant a (small) garden of herbs every year. This year it didn’t do so well, but I was able to get just enough to make dried basil on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. I will be rewarded for my efforts (which granted, weren’t much) this fall and winter with fantastically aromatic and flavorful crumbled basil.

Dried Basil on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

Storing The Basil

Basil turns almost black in color when you dry it, but don’t despair. It’s normal for it to do that. I keep the herbs that I’ve dried using my Nesco Snackmaster Pro in mason jars. I seal the jars with the optional jar sealer on my vacuum sealer. Whew, I said ‘seal’ three times in one sentence! Dried Basil on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro is a great way to use up those herbs that all seem ready to pick at once.

I like to load up my dehydrator. To do that I picked up a handful of extra trays. They really add a whole lot more drying space! Since I have to rotate my trays, I write a number on each one on a piece of blue painter’s tape so I can keep track of them.

NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2" Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack
NESCO TR-2 White Plastic Round 15 1/2″ Add-A-Trays, to fit 1000 Series Food Dehydrators, 2 Pack

You can dry any fresh herbs in the Nesco Snackmaster Pro. Like cilantro and rosemary.

Dried Basil on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Dried Basil on the Nesco Snackmaster Pro

I plant a (small) garden of herbs every year. This year it didn’t do so well, but I was able to get just enough to make dried basil. 
Course Seasoning
Cuisine American
Keyword basil, dehydrator, nesco snackmaster pro
Cook Time 12 hours
Total Time 12 hours
Servings 1 cup
Calories 104kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 pound fresh basil rinsed and patted dry. Remove leaves from stems.

Instructions

  • Place leaves onto the dehydrator trays.
  • Set the dehydrator to 95 F and let dry for 12-24 hours or until the leaves are dry and crispy, rotating the trays every 2 hours.
  • Let leaves cool slightly then crumble (by hand) into a resealable air-tight container.

Notes

You’ll definitely want some extra trays for your dehydrator so you can make plenty of dried basil.

Nutrition

Calories: 104kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 1338mg | Fiber: 7g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 23927IU | Vitamin C: 82mg | Calcium: 803mg | Iron: 14mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2" Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)
NESCO LM-2-6 Round Plastic Mesh 13 1/2″ Clean-A-Screens, for Dehydrators, (Pack of 2)

Country Roast Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

Not long ago I made the Country Roast chicken that you can get at Famous Dave’s BBQ. I made my own marinade and seasoning and in no time I was enjoying a really great meal. Famous Dave’s now sells their chicken seasoning in stores, so I figured I’d give that a try. No marinade needed, no making my own rub. Just lightly oil the chicken and sprinkle with the seasoning. Country roast chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is absolutely divine!

Country Roast Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Crispy skin. Moist meat.

The flavor is so great. The skin so crispy. And the meat was oh-so tender and juicy. It does not get any easier or better tasting.

I almost always use split bone-in chicken breasts when I cook country roast chicken on my Char-Broil Big Easy. You can use any cuts you want, of course. I prefer the flavor of split chicken breasts. They’re more flavorful than boneless chicken breasts and I don’t have to worry about them drying out.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Country Roast Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Country Roast Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Country roast chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy is absolutely divine! The flavor is so great. The skin so crispy. And the meat was oh-so tender and juicy. It does not get any easier or better tasting.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 258kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with the oil.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning over the chicken. Don’t be too shy with it.
  • Transfer the chicken to the Big Easy basket.
  • Cook for approximately 20 minutes per pound or until it reaches 165 F as checked in several places.
  • Remove and let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

You’ll need a Bunk Bed basket  to cook all 4 chicken breasts at once.

Nutrition

Calories: 258kcal | Protein: 48g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 262mg | Potassium: 836mg | Vitamin A: 68IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 11mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Copycat Dreamland BBQ Sauce

I found a big batch of smoked pulled pork in the freezer the other day. I was going to make one of my ‘usual’ BBQ sauces but this copycat of the sauce at Dreamland BBQ in Alabama has been on my to-try list for a while so I made a few quarts of it.

Visiting Dreamland BBQ (and honestly, just about any BBQ joint) is also on my to-do list, so I can’t vouch for how much of a copycat it is, but I can vouch for how good it is. Not too thick, not too runny with just a hint of heat. It’s a great all-purpose BBQ sauce.

Copycat Dreamland BBQ Sauce

Delicious As Is. But Changeable Too.

You can make this sauce as shown, or play with it to suit your own needs. I was looking for a light red sauce, and that’s exactly what I got. The beauty of a good BBQ sauce like this is you’ve got a great base for your preferences. Want more heat? Add more cayenne. A little sweeter? More sugar. Thicker? Let it simmer a while longer. You can’t go wrong with Dreamland BBQ sauce whether you follow the recipe to a T or use it as a starter for your own version.

Kitchen Bottle Condiment Set 3 Hole Dispenser Lid Plastic Squeeze for Sauce Mustard Ketchup 12 oz. / 340 ML.
Kitchen Bottle Condiment Set 3 Hole Dispenser Lid Plastic Squeeze for Sauce Mustard Ketchup 12 oz. / 340 ML.

This sauce is fantastic on my Backyard BBQ wings.

Also try my copycat Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce and Wood Shop’s BBQ sauce.

Copycat Dreamland BBQ Sauce
Print Pin
3.67 from 3 votes

Copycat Dreamland BBQ Sauce

Visiting Dreamland BBQ (and honestly, just about any BBQ joint) is also on my to-do list, so I can’t vouch for how much of a copycat it is, but I can vouch for how good it is.
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Keyword barbecue, BBQ, sauce
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 2 quarts
Calories 447kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe on Genius Kitchen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place puree and yellow mustard in a large saucepan and whisk until combined.
  • Whisk in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce to a simmer and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring often.
  • Keep in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.

Notes

Note: Dark corn syrup makes for a nice dark syrup with a hint of molasses. For a lighter syrup, use light corn syrup.
Note: If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine 1/4 cup corn starch and 1/4 cup cold water and whisk into the sauce as it simmers.

Nutrition

Calories: 447kcal | Carbohydrates: 95g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1974mg | Potassium: 2247mg | Fiber: 13g | Sugar: 67g | Vitamin A: 5411IU | Vitamin C: 57mg | Calcium: 185mg | Iron: 10mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial ... Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)
The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbooks Boxed Set: The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook, The Unofficial Disney Parks EPCOT Cookbook, The Unofficial … Cookbook (Unofficial Cookbook Gift Series)