Category: Vortex BBQ

Alabama White Sauce Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Give me a grill, a Vortex full of lit charcoal, and a few pieces of chicken and I’m one happy guy. One of my all-time favorite things to make on my grill is ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex. I’ve made countless variations, all fantastic. Like this Alabama White Sauce fried chicken using the Vortex. Just like all my others, it tastes and looks just like chicken fried in oil. The tangy Alabama white BBQ sauce is different. If you’ve never had it, I highly recommend it. It’s great on any chicken, fried, grilled, roasted, you name it.

Alabama White Sauce Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Some of the best Fried Chicken You’ll Ever Have

The Vortex always produces the most tender, juicy chicken you can find. This is a great, easy way to prepare delicious chicken. The addition of the Alabama White Sauce makes it different than ‘normal’ fried or traditional tomato-based BBQ chicken. Try it and you’ll find that you love this Alabama white sauce fried chicken using the Vortex just as much as I do.

I have a few Vortex inserts because, well, I have a few grills. By far my favorite setup is the Vortex in my Weber Performer grill. I can easily fit 8 large bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts around the grill without crowding them. They have never come out anything but fantastic. It’s as easy as you can get.

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

Also try my Vortex hot stuff fried chicken.

Alabama White Sauce Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Alabama White Sauce Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The tangy Alabama white BBQ sauce is different. If you've never had it, I highly recommend it. It's great on any chicken, fried, grilled, roasted, you name it.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 249kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ
Tongs
Tongs
basting brush
basting brush

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Load up your Vortex full of charcoal and light. Meanwhile, get the chicken ready.
  • Rinse chicken and pat dry.
  • Place chicken in a large resealable container or bag.
  • Once the charcoal is fully lit, remove the chicken from the bag and shake off any excess.
  • Transfer chicken to around the Vortex and close the lid, keeping the top vent open.
  • Cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F. Turn the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes of cook time if desired.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with some of the white sauce and continue cooking another 5-10 minutes.
  • Serve with more white sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

If you can’t find Duke’s, any good Alabama white sauce will do!

Nutrition

Calories: 249kcal | Protein: 22g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 81mg | Potassium: 218mg | Vitamin A: 162IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 13mg | 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

‘Fried’ Chicken using the Vortex

This is the first time I tried making ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex insert on my Weber charcoal grill. I use my Vortex a lot for making chicken wings, which are always fantastic, but I wasn’t sure how mimicking that great fried flavor would come out.

So Easy Yet So Amazing

My worries were completely unfounded since the chicken came out absolutely fantastic. I swore I was eating chicken right out of a deep-fryer. Great Southern-inspired coating, tender meat and yes, very, very crunchy skin.

Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Great Results No Matter What You Use

Since this was my first time I didn’t want to over-crowd my Performer with chicken. But now that I’ve got the process down, I could’ve easily added a few more pieces. And you don’t have to just use split bone-in chicken breasts like I did. Wings, legs, thighs… you name it, all will come out great ‘fried’ using the Vortex. Just don’t let the pieces overlap, because wherever they touch, they won’t get crispy.

See my full Vortex ‘menu’ by clicking here!

Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Making ‘fried’ chicken (some folks call it KFC – Kettle-Fried Chicken) really can’t get any easier. Also, check out my Nashville hot chicken recipe and my crispy fried chicken on the Vortex.

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

And nothing beats my fried chicken with gravy, also using the Vortex!

Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

‘Fried’ Chicken using the Vortex

I swore I was eating chicken right out of a deep-fryer. Great Southern-inspired coating, tender meat and yes, very, very crunchy skin.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 servings
Calories 437kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ
basting brush
basting brush
Tongs
Tongs

Ingredients

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.
  • Mix the remaining ingredients in 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 40 minutes, turning the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with more vegetable oil. Use caution as the grill will be hot. 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 5 minutes or until the chicken hits 160 F.
  • Remove and let rest and come to 165 F before serving.

Notes

I really enjoy this dish using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs too!

Nutrition

Calories: 437kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 53g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 2863mg | Potassium: 929mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 358IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 3mg

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

Chicken Fingers using the Vortex

I’m a huge fan of cooking chicken wings using the Vortex BBQ. I’m also a huge fan of ‘frying’ chicken using the Vortex BBQ. And now, I’m a huge fan of making chicken fingers using the Vortex BBQ. Just as easy as wings or fried chicken, these fingers came out tender and super tasty. They have a very nice coating that is light on crunch but heavy on flavor. And nothing could be easier to make, either!

Chicken Fingers using the Vortex

Fast Cooking, Great Tasting

Chicken fingers on the Vortex BBQ cook a whole lot quicker than do wings or chicken thighs. Don’t throw them on and ignore them. Don’t walk away. They’ll be done in no time.

As I mention in the recipe note, I put foil on my grill grates before I added the chicken. I’m not 100% sure if that’s required, but the chicken didn’t stick, so I’ll just keep doing it!

If you’re looking for a great side dish for your chicken fingers, make a batch of seasoned skinny fries, also made using a Vortex. For dipping sauces, try my copycat of Chick-fil-A’s dipping sauce, firecracker dipping sauce or my chili dipping sauce.

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

Also try making pizza rolls on the Vortex. They’ll disappear like that!

Chicken Fingers using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Chicken Fingers using the Vortex

Just as easy as wings or fried chicken, these fingers came out tender and super tasty. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword chicken fingers, Vortex
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 610kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex BBQ insert. Let the coals get good and hot.
  • Combine the flour, salt and pepper in a pie plate.
  • Pour the buttermilk into another pie plate. Whisk in the hot sauce if using.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken into the flour mixture, then the buttermilk, and then once again in the flour.
  • Transfer to your grill and cook for 15-20 minutes or until done. Lightly brush the chicken with the oil the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Serve hot.

Notes

I covered my grill grates in foil and brushed on a light coating of oil because I thought the fingers might stick. I haven’t tried to make them yet without foil. You might want to foil yours also, or at least oil them before adding the chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 610kcal | Carbohydrates: 69g | Protein: 59g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 152mg | Sodium: 909mg | Potassium: 1019mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 170IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 96mg | 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

Buttery Garlic Fried Chicken using the Vortex

If you’re craving garlic flavor, you’ve come to the right place. My buttery garlic fried chicken made using the Vortex brings the garlic punch and then some. And crunchy skin? Craving that too? Got you covered there, too. This is some great chicken. Everyone will think you slaved for hours and had to deep-fry the chicken, but nope. No deep fryer here! No big huge bucket of oil required! Just a charcoal grill, some charcoal, a Vortex and a small number of ingredients and in no time you’ve got crazy good, amazing chicken!

Buttery Garlic Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Fantastically Crunchy, Fantastically Juicy

I’ve found that just about any recipe for deep-fried chicken can be adapted for use on the Vortex. This buttery garlic fried chicken using the Vortex is another great example. The key is to not have overly-thick batter. My experience has been that thick, pancake batter-like batter cooks unevenly and doesn’t end up with the crunch you are wanting. You’ll find that this recipe produces fantastic crunch while keeping the chicken moist, tender and super tasty. There’s no question that this chicken packs in both the butter and garlic flavors either.

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

Also try my Korean fried chicken and my spicy honey fried chicken made using the Vortex.

Buttery Garlic Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Buttery Garlic Fried Chicken using the Vortex

If you’re craving garlic flavor, you’ve come to the right place. My buttery garlic fried chicken made using the Vortex brings the garlic punch and then some. And crunchy skin? Craving that too? Got you covered there, too.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, garlicky, Vortex
Prep Time 1 day 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 546kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Forks ‘n Flipflops

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

For the chicken

For the dredge

For the garlic butter

Instructions

For the chicken

  • Place the chicken in a large bowl or resealable container.
  • Combine the oil, garlic powder, minced garlic, salt and pepper.
  • Add to the chicken and toss gently to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or up to 24 hours (preferred).

For the dredge

  • Fire up your grill with a Vortex full of charcoal. While it gets hot, prepare the chicken.
  • In a pie plate or shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper.
  • In another pie plate or shallow bowl, lightly beat the egg whites.
  • Remove chicken from marinade. Dip pieces into the egg whites and shake off excess.
  • Transfer chicken to flour to coat.
  • Return chicken to the egg whites and coat again. Shake off excess.
  • Transfer chicken to flour again and coat. Shake off excess and transfer to a wire rack or plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  • Transfer the chicken to the grill around the Vortex.
  • Cook for 45 minutes or until chicken reads at least 165 F.
  • Spoon half of the garlic butter from below over tops of chicken and cook another 5 minutes.
  • Serve plated with remaining garlic butter spooned over top of chicken.

For the garlic butter

  • In a small skillet on med heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, minced garlic and water. Cook, stirring constantly for 1 minute. Add remaining 7 tablespoons until melted. Remove from heat and pour into small bowl. Add minced parsley, salt and black pepper and whisk together. Spoon or brush over tops of the chicken pieces right before serving.
  • Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.
  • Add remaining butter and stir until melted.
  • Add the parsley, salt and pepper. Stir.
  • Reduce heat to low and keep warm until ready to use.

Notes

I love this recipe using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs but you can substitute your favorite cuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 546kcal | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 16g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 248mg | Sodium: 2511mg | Potassium: 277mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1261IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 81mg | 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

For Low-Salt, Make The Seasoning At Home

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.

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

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

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

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

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

Oh So Tender And Juicy

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!

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

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!).

Buzznbeez Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
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

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

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.

Notes

I prefer bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for this recipe, but you can substitute any cuts you like.

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

Copycat Church’s Fried Chicken Using the Vortex

I could make (and eat) ‘fried’ chicken using my Vortex BBQ all day long. It has never let me down. It has never been anything but easy. This copycat of Church’s fried chicken using the Vortex was no exception. Incredibly crunchy skin. Unbelievably moist and flavorful meat. And as easy as coating it, grilling it, eating it. Done.

Copycat Church's Fried Chicken Using the Vortex

Easy. And Fantastic.

There are no tricks or special handshakes that you need to know to get fried chicken right using the Vortex. And although a lot of sites say to rotate the lid every 15 minutes while cooking, I’ve not found that it makes a difference. I don’t over-crowd my grill and I make sure I have a super-hot fire. If you’ve found that rotating the lid is a requirement, let me know but so far, I’ve not had anything but success just keeping the lid right where it is. I also do not flip my chicken while it is cooking. Doing so will result in ‘batter loss’, a bad thing. Just keep it right where it is.

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

Also try my insanely-awesome proper pub fried chicken, another fantastic recipe for deliciously crispy tasty chicken cooked using the Vortex. You can also use off-the-shelf fried chicken coating to make spectacular chicken on the Vortex. Check out my Kentucky Kernel chicken too!

Copycat Church's Fried Chicken Using the Vortex
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3.67 from 3 votes

Copycat Church’s Fried Chicken Using the Vortex

This copycat of Church’s fried chicken was no exception. Incredibly crunchy skin. Unbelievably moist and flavorful meat. And as easy as coating it, grilling it, eating it. Done.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 4 servings
Calories 373kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Just A Pinch

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

  • 8 pieces chicken I prefer bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

For the dry mixture

For the wet mixture

  • 2 eggs
  • ¼ cup cold water

For a crispier coating

Instructions

  • Fire up your grill with the Vortex BBQ. Let the coals get good and hot.
  • Combine all of the dry mixture ingredients in a pie plate.
  • In another pie plate, whisk together the eggs and water.
  • Working in batches, dip the chicken into the wet mixture, then into the dry mixture.
  • One more time, dip the chicken into the wet mixture and then the dry mixture.
  • Transfer chicken to your grill grate around the Vortex and cook until done, about 45 minutes.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with oil the last 5 minutes of cooking to get a crispier skin.

Notes

You can use any cuts of chicken that you prefer, but I have found that bone-in, skin-on thighs produce the best results time after time!

Nutrition

Calories: 373kcal | Carbohydrates: 68g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 84mg | Sodium: 2963mg | Potassium: 184mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 202IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 62mg | 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

Cajun-Brined Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I use the heck out of my Vortex on my charcoal grills. I have several of them and I keep them busy with everything from wings to my favorite, ‘fried’ chicken. This time I took a fairly traditional deep-fryer recipe and adapted it for the Vortex. This Cajun-brined fried chicken using the Vortex is absolutely amazing. The chicken is just crazy tender and juicy. Like drip-when-you-bite-into-it moist. Oh, and that crunchy skin. Oh my goodness. The skin is just incredible. This is unbelievable chicken right here.

Cajun-Brined Fried Chicken using the Vortex

You Can’t Go Wrong With Chicken Thighs

I almost always use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs when I make this Cajun-brined fried chicken or any other ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex. The dark meat has the most flavor and always cooks up tender and juicy. You can use any cuts you like but for my money, you can’t go wrong with thighs. I often find them on sale in family packs at the grocery store for less an a dollar per pound. Eight big thighs for less than six bucks is a total steal in my book.

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

Also try Silvia’s crispy fried chicken using the Vortex.

Cajun-Brined Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Cajun-Brined Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I almost always use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs when I make this Cajun-brined fried chicken or any other ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex. The dark meat has the most flavor and always cooks up tender and juicy.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 8 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 506kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

Instructions

  • In a large sealable plastic container combine the water, all but 2 tablespoons of the salt and all but 2 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
  • Add the chicken and submerge. Cover and refrigerate 8-24 hours, turning the chicken at least once to make sure all of the pieces get brined evenly.
  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex insert full of charcoal.
  • Whisk together the remaining salt, Cajun seasoning, flour, black pepper and cayenne.
  • In another large bowl combine the buttermilk and hot sauce.
  • Working in batches, remove the chicken from the brine and shake off excess. Transfer to the flour mixture and coat well, then shake off any excess.
  • Transfer to the buttermilk mixture and coat well, then shake off any excess. Once more coat in the flour mixture, shake off excess, then transfer to a wire rack while you coat the remaining pieces.
  • Transfer to your grill around the now-ashed charcoal-filled Vortex. Close the lid and cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken has reached 165 F as checked in several places.
  • Lightly brush the tops of the chicken with some oil and cook another 3 minutes to get the skin good and crunchy.
  • Remove chicken from the grill and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Skin-on chicken cuts produce the best results, but you can use skinless if you want!

Nutrition

Calories: 506kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 124mg | Sodium: 14466mg | Potassium: 755mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 7046IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 200mg | 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

Nashville Hot Chicken using the Vortex

I recently made ‘fried’ chicken on my Weber Performer grill using the Vortex insert. The chicken came out fantastic, which inspired me to then try making Nashville hot chicken also using the Vortex. Wow, oh wow, was it absolutely great chicken. Lightly crunchy, and a little spicy, it was a dish to remember. This method is definitely a great substitute for the traditional way of making Nashville hot chicken in a deep fryer.

Nashville Hot Chicken using the Vortex

Cooking Time Variations

I used split bone-in chicken breasts when I made this Nashville hot chicken using the Vortex. It’s our preferred cut of chicken, but you can use any cut you like. Just keep in mind that if you mix pieces that are greatly different in size some may be done before others. Smaller pieces can be checked for doneness after the 45 minutes cooking time.

Nashville Hot Chicken using the Vortex

Also check out my recipe for making ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex. For a more southern twist, try my Buzznbeez southern fried chicken. My Cajun injected chicken, also cooked up perfectly using the Vortex, is another big hit!

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
Nashville Hot Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Nashville Hot Chicken using the Vortex

Wow, oh wow, was this ever absolutely great chicken. Lightly crunchy, and a little spicy, it was a dish to remember.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, spicy, Vortex
Prep Time 1 day
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 day 1 hour
Servings 4
Calories 905kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

For the dry brine

For the dip

  • 1 cup milk I used buttermilk Note: If you have pickle juice on hand, use 1/2 cup milk and 1/2 cup pickle juice instead
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce

For the dredge

For the spicy coating

For serving

Instructions

For the dry brine

  • Season chicken and place into a baggie or resealable container.
  • Seal and refrigerate overnight or up to 24 hours.

For the dip

  • Whisk together the milk, eggs and hot sauce in a pie pan or shallow bowl.

For the dredge

  • Whisk together the flour and salt in a pie pan or shallow bowl.

For cooking

  • Fire up your grill with the Vortex insert full of charcoal.
  • Let the coals get good and ashed over.
  • Working in batches, dredge the chicken in the flour. Shake off excess.
  • Dip chicken into the milk mixture. Shake off excess.
  • Return the chicken to the flour and dredge again. Shake off excess.
  • Transfer chicken to the grill, placing it along the edges of the grill.
  • Cover and cook for 15 minutes.
  • Rotate the lid 90 degrees and cook another 15 minutes.
  • Brush the chicken with the spicy coating. Rotate the lid 90 degrees and cook another 15 minutes
  • Brush the chicken with the spicy coating. Rotate the lid 90 degrees and cook another 15 minutes
  • Check for doneness. Remove when done and let rest 10-15 minutes before serving.

For the spicy coating

  • Heat the oil in a small saute pan.
  • Whisk in the remaining ingredients.
  • Keep warm until ready to use.

For serving

  • Serve garnished with dill pickle and white bread slices, if desired.

Notes

You can also serve the sauce on the side for dipping!

Nutrition

Calories: 905kcal | Carbohydrates: 55g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 57g | Saturated Fat: 31g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 222mg | Sodium: 3172mg | Potassium: 541mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1011IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 120mg | 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

Seasoned Skinny Fries using the Vortex

I made seasoned steak fries on my Weber Performer grill using the Vortex BBQ insert the other day. They came out really, really good. Which got me thinking… could I apply much the same technique to thinner cuts of potatoes, giving me crispy skinny fries? Yep, you bet I could and did! These seasoned skinny fries using the Vortex were absolutely fantastic.

Seasoned Skinny Fries using the Vortex

The Perfect Fries

I ‘fry’ chicken using my Vortex on a pretty regular basis. At least on my Performer that leaves me some spare room for other things and by other things I now mean fries. What’s better than ‘fried’ chicken and crispy seasoned fries for lunch? Nothing. Well, Vortex chicken fingers are might good too, actually. But these seasoned skinny fries using the Vortex are easy, quick, and tasty. Oh and crunchy. I love fries with crunchy outsides and tender fluffy insides.

Don’t skip or rush the soaking and draining steps in the recipe. That’s what helps give these fries that great crunchy exterior.

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
Seasoned Skinny Fries using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Seasoned Skinny Fries using the Vortex

These seasoned skinny fries were fantastic. Tasty and crunchy, and crazy easy.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword fries, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 173kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Vortex BBQ
Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

For the seasoning (makes more than you’ll need for one recipe)

Instructions

  • Fire up your charcoal grill using the Vortex insert. You’ll want to use a larger grill, 22″ or bigger.
  • Meanwhile, place the fries into a large bowl of cold water.
  • Let soak for 5 minutes then drain.
  • Add water again and soak until you’re about ready to start cooking.
  • Make the seasoning by combining all ingredients.
  • Drain the fries and pat dry. I like to dump them out onto a large towel and give them a good patting, tossing a few times to make sure I get them all dry.
  • Transfer fries back to the bowl (wiping it dry first) and add just a splash of oil.
  • Sprinkle with the seasoning, to taste. I usually use about half of the recipe, but I like mine spicy. You might want to start with 1/4th of the recipe (2 teaspoons or thereabouts). Toss to coat.
  • Transfer the fries to your grill. Keep them along the edges of the grate and at an angle to the grate so they don’t fall in.
  • Cover (keeping the top vent open) and cook for 45 minutes-1 hour, rotating the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes.
  • After 30 minutes carefully flip the fries, checking for doneness.
  • Remove the fries once they are getting golden brown.
  • Let cool slightly. The fries will crisp more as they cool.
  • Sprinkle with a little salt before serving.

Notes

I only used 2 potatoes because I also cooked 2 large pieces of chicken at the same time as the fries. You could fit 4 potatoes worth of fries on a 22″ grill if that’s all you’re cooking. Don’t overcrowd them, though, or they won’t cook evenly.

Nutrition

Calories: 173kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1190mg | Potassium: 921mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 446IU | Vitamin C: 18mg | Calcium: 33mg | 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