From the Vortex Archives - Life's A Tomato

The Best Vortex Fried Chicken Recipes

I absolutely love making fried chicken on my charcoal grill using the Vortex insert. With no or little oil, I can make chicken that seems like it was deep-fried. The flavors are amazing. The crunchy skin is amazing. Fried chicken on the Vortex is even better than deep-fried!

Kentucky Kernel ‘Fried’ Chicken using the Vortex

Perfectly juicy, crunchy skin, crazy good fried chicken flavor without all of the oil.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

Amish Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Amish fried chicken has that great down-home, grandma-made-it flavor. It's all about the seasoning… and well, a little bit of butter too.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

Chicken Fingers using the Vortex

Just as easy as wings or fried chicken, these fingers came out tender and super tasty.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

Easy Cajun Fried Chicken using the Vortex

After trying literally 100s of recipes, this easy Cajun fried chicken one is our go-to, easy technique. The end result is incredible.

Check out this recipe

Easy Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Absolutely delicious, crunchy, moist fried chicken with about as little fuss and mess as possible. And no oil.

Check out this recipe

Fried Chicken with Gravy using the Vortex

This right here is amazingly great chicken, and all without deep-frying.

Check out this recipe

Granny’s Secret Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I keep having to pinch myself when I make ‘fried’ chicken on my charcoal grill using the Vortex. Am I dreaming? I’m really eating deep-fried chicken, right? But it’s not.

Check out this recipe

Hidden Valley Ranch Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This Hidden Valley Ranch fried chicken is crazy tender, unbelievable moist. And the skin? Well, let’s just say I leave it for last because it’s almost like dessert. A true treat.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

Hot Stuff Chicken using the Vortex

Whenever I cook chicken on my Vortex I always give it a quick, light brushing of oil just at the end.

Check out this recipe

Krispy Country Chicken using the Vortex

The easiest mix in the world, giving you nicely crunchy, juicy, flavorful chicken in less than an hour with no oil used for frying.

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Korean Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This Korean fried chicken using the Vortex was right up my alley. As always with the Vortex, the chicken is cooked perfectly. Tender and juicy and delicious.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

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.

Check out this recipe

Orange Chicken using the Vortex

No, it’s not an illusion. It’s not Photoshopped. And I’m not fibbing. This crunchy, moist, tender, delicious chicken was not deep-fried. It was made on a charcoal grill using the Vortex.

Check out this recipe

Proper Pub Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The seasonings give every single bite the most fantastic flavor. Tender, moist. And crunchy skin? Oh yes.

Check out this recipe

Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I use this southern fried chicken recipe the most, sometimes adding a sauce at the end, but often not,. It’s got that perfect crunch, whether you use skin-on or skinless chicken.

Check out this recipe

Spicy BBQ Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This spicy BBQ fried chicken using the Vortex is my go-to recipe. I can then add whatever I want at the end. This time I added a spicy BBQ sauce and a drizzle of Ranch dressing. There were no leftovers.

Check out this recipe

Spicy Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This. Right. Here. Absolutely divine ‘fried’ chicken, hot off my charcoal grill. Yes, grill.

Check out this recipe

Spicy Honey Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Oh. My. Goodness. This spicy honey fried chicken is off-the-charts fantastic. Crispy crunchy skin. Juicy, moist, tender chicken.

Check out this recipe

Spicy Hot Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This version brings a bit of heat. Just the right amount. And oh, so tender, juicy meat.

Check out this recipe

Sweet Tea Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This is my first time marinating chicken in tea, and it definitely won't be my last.

Check out this recipe

Sylvia’s Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Just fire up, coat the chicken, place it on the grill and come back in 45 minutes or so to grab some delicious chicken. You’d swear it was fried in oil it’s so good. Crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Perfect.

Check out this recipe

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

Southern Marinated Fried Chicken using the Vortex

What’s better than ‘fried’ chicken made using the Vortex BBQ insert? If you’ve made it before, you know what I’m talking about. If you haven’t made it before, you’re missing out. In fact, you need to stop reading this point right now and order one for your charcoal grill. Then make this southern marinated fried chicken using the Vortex. It’s amazing. Crunchy skin. Tender, juicy meat. And packed with flavor and then some. You’ll swear it was fried in oil.

Tender, Juicy Chicken With That Great Crunchy Skin

The seasoning is the key to the flavor in this southern marinated fried chicken using the Vortex. Nothing fancy, but oh so good on chicken. Left to marinate overnight, the seasoning ends up flavoring every bite, all the way through. And with no trouble at all, the Vortex cooks the chicken up perfectly.

I’ve never had leftover ‘fried’ chicken made using the Vortex. And I don’t think I ever will. There’s nothing about it but goodness. And even though I’ve made it hundreds of times, I’m still impressed each and every time. I still think that I’m enjoying fried chicken even though it’s grilled. It’s an amazing experience that is easy to boot.

Also try my spicy hot Vortex 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

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5 from 1 vote

Southern Marinated Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The seasoning is the key to the flavor in this southern marinated fried chicken.

Course Main

Cuisine American

Keyword fried chicken, martinated, Vortex

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 45

Servings

Calories 129kcal

Author Inspired by a recipe from Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

For the seasoning

1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon seasoned salt

For the chicken

4 pieces chicken I prefer large bone-in, skin-on thighs
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
vegetable oil for brushing at the end of the cooking

Instructions

For the seasoning

Combine all ingredients.

For the chicken

Rinse chicken and pat dry.
Transfer chicken to a sealable bag or container.
Add HALF of the seasoning. Seal, and toss to coat. Refrigerate overnight.
Fire up your Vortex with a full load of coals. Let them ash over before cooking.
Combine the remaining seasoning with the pepper and flour.
Roll chicken in the flour mixture and coat well.
Place the chicken on the grill grate around the Vortex.
Close the lid (leaving the top vent open) and cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F. You may turn the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes of cooking if desired.
Lightly brush the tops of the chicken pieces with oil and cook another 5 minutes to crisp the skin.
Remove and serve.

Notes

You can use your favorite chicken cuts.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Spicy Hot 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 charcoal my grill is ‘fried’ chicken using the Vortex. I’ve made countless variations, all fantastic. Like this spicy hot fried chicken using the Vortex. Just like all my others, it tastes and looks just like chicken fried in oil. This version brings a bit of heat. Just the right amount. And oh, so tender, juicy meat. This is a great, easy way to prepare delicious chicken. You’ll seriously not think this was done over coals and you’ll definitely think it’s deep fried in oil.

So Simple. So Delicious.

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. 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 to make something like this spicy hot fried Chicken using the Vortex. You just need a few ingredients and some charcoal and you’re ready to cook!

Also try my Vortex southern marinated 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

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5 from 1 vote

Spicy Hot Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This version brings a bit of heat. Just the right amount. And oh, so tender, juicy meat.

Course Main

Cuisine American

Keyword fried chicken, spicy, Vortex

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 45

Servings

Calories 370kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

For the chicken

4 large chicken pieces
vegetable oil for brushing at the end of cooking

For the marinade

2 tablespoons hot sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
½ tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the dredge

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

For the marinade

Combine all ingredients.
Place chicken in a large resealable container or bag.
Add the marinade. Seal and shake to coat.
Refrigerate overnight, turning once or twice.

For the dredge

Combine all ingredients.

For the chicken

Load up your Vortex full of charcoal and light.
Once fully lit, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
Coat pieces thoroughly in the dredge.
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 oil and continue cooking another 5 minutes.

Notes

I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Kickin’ Cajun Potato Wedges using the Vortex

It only took me one time making potato wedges using my Vortex BBQ on my Weber charcoal grill to turn me into a full-blown addict. I use my Vortex a lot, to say the least. Wings, fried chicken, mostly but now also for a fantastic side dish. These Kickin’ Cajun potato wedges using the Vortex bring a nice kick, crispy skin, and cream potato-y insides. Get the ketchup out, if you want, or eat them straight-up. You can’t go wrong with them, that’s for sure!

Flavor-Packed Potatoes

The key to these Kickin’ Cajun potato wedges using the Vortex is the Kickin’ Cajun seasoning from Kosmos Q. Normally used as a wing dust, I’ve found that it’s much, much more than that. Like on these potatoes. It brings a bit of heat. Actually, quite a bit the more you use. So give it a (small) taste first to see how much kick you want.

Try and make sure you cut your potato wedges the same size as much as possible. You want them to cook evenly. And definitely don’t cut them too thin, like potato straws or French fries. Nice thick wedges are what you are after. If you end up with lil ole pieces at the edges of the potato, don’t use them for this.

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

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5 from 1 vote

Kickin’ Cajun Potato Wedges using the Vortex

These Kickin' Cajun potato wedges bring a nice kick, crispy skin, and cream potato-y insides. You'll eat them like popcorn.

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword potatoes, Vortex

Prep Time 45

Cook Time 20

Servings

Calories 344kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

4 Russet potatoes scrubbed clean
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Kosmo's Q Kickin' Cajun Wing Dust
½ teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

Fill your Vortex BBQ with charcoal and light it up while preparing the potatoes.
Slice potatoes in half lengthwise, then half again lengthwise, and finally one more time lengthwise (i.e. you're cutting them into 1/8ths). You don't want them super thin, so for smaller potatoes you might only have to cut them 1/4ths.
Transfer to a bowl.
Drizzle the potatoes with the oil and toss to coat.
Sprinkle the potatoes with the seasoning and baking powder and toss to coat. I've found that stirring them with your hands works best.
Once the charcoal is just ashed over place the potato wedges in a circle around the edges of your grill. Don't let the potatoes touch. It's ok if you need to put them in two or three rows. If some pieces are thicker than others try to locate those nearer the fire.
Place the cover on the grill with the top and bottom vents wide open.
Cook for 20-30 minutes, rotating the lid 90 degrees every 5 or so minutes. Start checking the potatoes after 15 minutes. Sometimes one side off the grill needs more heat as the wedges there aren't cooking quite as quickly as others. Just rotate the lid so the vent is near that side and let cook a bit longer.
Remove and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results use wedges that are all about the same size.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Hot Stuff Chicken using the Vortex

To say I’m a huge fan of ‘fried’ chicken using a Vortex BBQ insert would be the understatement of the decade. I have several Vortexes (Vortices?), using them for everything from wings to potato wedges to this hot stuff chicken. This hot stuff chicken using the Vortex is easily some of the most flavor-packed, crunchy skin, moist chicken I’ve ever had. You just cannot beat the Vortex and chicken (and other things!). You’ll be amazed that this dish was cooked on a grill using charcoal and not done in a deep-fryer.

Nice ‘N Crispy

Whenever I cook this hot stuff chicken using the Vortex I always give it a quick, light brushing of oil just at the end. This helps crisp up the skin. Some folks also recommend using spray duck fat or oil. Or butter. Whichever you use, it’s a good thing to do since it really makes great chicken into superb fried-like chicken. I brushed it on about 5 minutes before my hot stuff chicken was completely done and let it finish cooking. That’s all!

PS: If you have duck fat spray, I highly recommend using it any time you make chicken on the Vortex. It’s a real game changer.

Also try my Vortex Alabama white sauce 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

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

Hot Stuff Chicken using the Vortex

Whenever I cook chicken on my Vortex I always give it a quick, light brushing of oil just at the end.

Course Main

Cuisine American

Keyword fried chicken, spicy, Vortex

Prep Time 1

Cook Time 45

Servings

Calories 365kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

For the chicken

4 large chicken thighs I prefer skin on, bone in.
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the marinade

2 teaspoons chili powder
2 teaspoons hot sauce
2 teaspoons soy sauce
2 teaspoons Teriyaki sauce
4 teaspoons ground ginger
2 tablespoons dried minced onion
2 teaspoons sugar
2 teaspoons white vinegar

Instructions

Place chicken into a large resealable container or bag.
Combine all of the marinade ingredients and add to the chicken.
Seal and marinate at room temperature for one hour.
While the chicken in marinating (about 15 minutes) fill your Vortex with charcoal and light.
Place flour in a bowl or bag.
Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
Transfer to flour and coat well. If using a bag just add, seal, and toss to coat. In a bowl turn the pieces in the flour to coat.
Shake off any excess.
Place chicken pieces around your grill with the bottom and top vents wide open.
Close the lid and cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 160 F. Turn the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Lightly brush the tops of the chicken with oil.
Cover and cook another 5 minutes. The chicken should be at least 165 F.
Remove and serve.

Notes

I think bone-in, skin-on thighs produce the best results but you can substitute your favorite cuts.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

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.

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.

Also try my Vortex hot stuff 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

Print Pin

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

Cook Time 45

Servings

Calories 249kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

4 large chicken pieces I prefer bone-in, skin-on thighs
½ cup Kentucky Kernel Seasoned Flour
Duke's Alabama-Style White BBQ Sauce

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

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges using the Vortex

There are two things that make these garlic Parmesan potato wedges absolutely fantastic: Kosmos Q garlic Parmesan wing dust and a Vortex BBQ loaded with hot charcoal. The wing dust packs tremendous garlicky cheesy flavor. Yes, I use it on wings. A lot. And also potato wedges. And homemade potato chips. It’s great stuff. The Vortex gets crazy hot, giving these potatoes a lightly crunchy exterior and a creamy soft interior.

Nice ‘n Cruncy

Adding baking powder to the potatoes before putting them on the grill adds a bit of extra crunch to them. You can skip it if you like, these garlic Parmesan potato wedges using the Vortex are tremendous either way. You can also make them a bit spicier if you prefer, like my Kickin’ Cajun potato wedges.

With a 22″ grill you’ll be able to fit a decent amount of potatoes around a Vortex. You’ll have just enough space leftover for a few pieces of chicken, too. It’ll be tight. I’ve found that the limited space is an excellent excuse for getting another grill!

Kosmos Q makes a lot of other great flavored wing dusts that are great on potato wedges too. Try them all! I did!

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

My Vortex St. Louis-style ribs go great with these potato wedges!

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges using the Vortex

Adding baking powder to the potatoes before putting them on the grill adds a bit of extra crunch to them.

Course Side

Cuisine American

Keyword garlic Parmesan, potatoes, Vortex

Prep Time 45

Cook Time 20

Servings

Calories 344kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

4 Russet potatoes scrubbed clean
2 teaspoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Kosmo's Q Garlic Parmesan Wing Dust
½ teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

Fill your Vortex BBQ with charcoal and light it up while preparing the potatoes.
Slice potatoes in half lengthwise, then half again lengthwise, and finally one more time lengthwise (i.e. you're cutting them into 1/8ths). You don't want them super thin, so for smaller potatoes you might only have to cut them 1/4ths. Transfer to a bowl.
Drizzle the potatoes with the oil and toss to coat.
Sprinkle the potatoes with the seasoning and baking powder and toss to coat. I've found that stirring them with your hands works best.
Once the charcoal is just ashed over place the potato wedges in a circle around the edges of your grill. Don't let the potatoes touch. It's ok if you need to put them in two or three rows. If some pieces are thicker than others try to locate those nearer the fire.
Place the cover on the grill with the top and bottom vents wide open.
Cook for 20-30 minutes, rotating the lid 90 degrees every 5 or so minutes. Start checking the potatoes after 15 minutes. Sometimes one side off the grill needs more heat as the wedges there aren't cooking quite as quickly as others. Just rotate the lid so the vent is near that side and let cook a bit longer.
Remove and serve immediately.

Notes

For the best results and even cooking, try to cut the potato wedges all close to the same size as possible.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Pioneer Take Out Chicken using the Vortex

Up until now, I’ve used lighter, thinner coatings when making ‘fried’ chicken using my Vortex insert on my Weber Performer grill. Even the pre-made mixes I’ve used create that perfect thin coating. This time I thought I’d delve into the world of thicker coatings and see how the Vortex would hold up. And boy, did it ever deliver! As always the thicken turned out so moist and tender. And then, again, there’s that perfectly crispy skin and coating. Cooked perfectly, all the way through no matter how thick the batter. This Pioneer Takeout chicken using the Vortex was fantastic!

Mighty Good Easy Chicken

Pioneer Take Out in a chicken restaurant chain that started in California. Although never as big as Kentucky Fried Chicken, if this version of their chicken, grilled instead of deep-fried, is any indication of how good their food is, they should be everywhere! Pioneer Take Out chicken using the Vortex is fantastic!

Also try Granny’s fried chicken, also made using a 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

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

Pioneer Take Out Chicken using the Vortex

This time I thought I’d delve into the world of thicker coatings and see how the Vortex would hold up. And boy, did it ever deliver! As always the thicken turned out so moist and tender. And then, again, there’s that perfectly crispy skin and coating. Cooked perfectly, all the way through no matter how thick the batter. This Pioneer Takeout chicken was fantastic!

Course Main

Cuisine American

Keyword fried chicken, Vortex

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings

Calories 165kcal

Author Inspired Dinner Then Dessert

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

8 pieces chicken I used skin-on, bone-in thighs
Vegetable oil

For the wet batter

¾ cup cornstarch
¼ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon paprika
1 ½ tablespoon onion powder
1 ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
¾ teaspoon celery salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
¾ cup water

For the dry batter

¼ cup cornstarch

Instructions

Fire up your grill with the Vortex insert. Let the coals get good and hot.
Combine all of the wet batter ingredients and place in a shallow pan.
Place the dry batter into another shallow pan.
Dip the chicken pieces in the dry batter and roll to coat.
Transfer to the wet ingredients and roll to coat well.
Remove to a cooling rack to drain.
Transfer chicken to your grill around the Vortex. Do not let the pieces overlap or touch.
Cook for approximate 45 minutes or until the chicken is done. Test for 165 F in several places then remove.
Lightly brush with oil and cook another 5 minutes. This will help get the skin even crisper.
Let cool slightly and serve.

Notes

You can use your favorite cuts of chicken.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Sweet Tea Fried Chicken using the Vortex

One of the things I really love to cook with my Vortex is to take written-for-a-deep-fryer chicken recipes and adapt them for my charcoal grill. Just about any thing you can do in a vat of hot oil can be made better using a Vortex. And with almost no oil at all. I do use a bit of oil at the very end of the cook. Just to help crunch up the skin. It’s optional, but oh does it make that skin superb! This sweet tea fried chicken using the Vortex was a total twist for me, and I thought it was incredible. The tea adds a bit of sweetness, a bit of a herby hint, to the chicken. This is my first time marinating chicken in tea, sweet or not, and it definitely won’t be my last.

Different. And Definitely Delicious.

I used Luziannne tea bags (our favorite tea for iced tea) when I made sweet tea fried chicken using the Vortex. It might be interesting to try other teas, maybe infused some different flavors. Or just do as I did and use what you know and love and get some incredible tasting chicken.

Also try my Amish fried chicken made using 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

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

Sweet Tea Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This is my first time marinating chicken in tea, and it definitely won't be my last.

Course Main

Cuisine American

Keyword fried chicken, Vortex

Prep Time 1 1

Cook Time 45

Servings

Calories 909kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

3 cups water
¼ cup sugar
3 tea bags
8 chicken thighs bone-in, skin-in
2 large eggs lightly beaten
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons garlic salt
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

Bring the water to boil in a small pot over high heat.
Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
Add the teabags and remove from the heat. Let the bags steep for 5 minutes then remove.
Let the tea cool completely.
Place chicken into a large sealable container. Add the tea. Make sure all the pieces are submerged, adding a bit more water if needed.
Refrigerate for 24 hours, turning at least once to make sure that all sides of the chicken get marinated.
Fire up your charcoal grill fitted with a Vortex full of charcoal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
In a shallow bowl or pie plate, whisk together the flour, garlic salt, lemon pepper seasoning, poultry seasoning, paprika, pepper and salt.
Remove the chicken from the tea, shaking off any excess. Working in batches, transfer the chicken to the buttermilk mixture and coat well.
Remove and shake off any excess, then coat in the flour mixture. Place on a wire rack while you finish dredging all of the pieces.
Transfer chicken to the grill around the Vortex (assuming the coals are ashed over and are good and hot). Cover and cook for 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several places. Turn the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes so the chicken cooks evenly.
Lightly brush the tops of the chicken with some oil and let cook another 3-4 minutes to get the skin good and crunchy.
Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

You can use your favorite chicken cuts, but I’ve found that bone-in, skin-on thighs always produce the best results.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Amish Fried Chicken using the Vortex

A Vortex BBQ insert and a charcoal grill is a marriage made in heaven. I cannot tell you how often I use my Vortex, but it’s practically a daily thing for me. Recipes like this Amish fried chicken using the Vortex are why I keep firing up: fantastic, like-fried-in-oil chicken, with crazy good crunchy skin. Every bite is perfect, flavorful and moist. It quickly and easily can become an obsession to make fried chicken using a Vortex. Trust me.

Just Like Grandma’s

Amish fried chicken using the Vortex has that great down-home, grandma-made-it flavor. It’s all about the seasoning… and well, a little bit of butter too. You can’t beat the flavor and you can’t beat the moist, tender meat, thanks to the Vortex. This is a winner recipe, and easy to make to boot. Don’t have marjoram? A little oregano will work just as well. Ditto thyme.

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 honey fried chicken and my yummy sweet tea fried chicken.

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

Amish Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Amish fried chicken has that great down-home, grandma-made-it flavor. It's all about the seasoning… and well, a little bit of butter too.

Course Main

Cuisine American

Keyword fried chicken, Vortex

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 50

Servings

Calories 290kcal

Equipment

Vortex BBQ

Ingredients

⅓ cup vegetable oil
⅓ cup butter
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 teaspoon dried marjoram
8 pieces chicken I prefer bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Instructions

Load up your Vortex with charcoal and light them while preparing the chicken.
Add oil to a small skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and belt. Stir well. Remove from heat.
Combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic salt and marjoram in a large resealable bag or a bowl.
Pour half of the oil and butter mixture into a small bowl. Brush onto all sides of the chicken.
Working in batches, transfer the chicken to the flour mixture. Seal the bag and shake to coat, or dredge well in the bowl. Remove to a plate and finish coating the remaining pieces.
Transfer chicken to around the Vortex (now that the coals are ashed over). Close the grill lid and cook 45 minutes or until the chicken reaches 160 F. Rotate the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes while cooking.
Brush (using a different brush than the one you used on the raw chicken) the reserved oil and butter mixture over the tops of the chicken and cook another 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F and the skin is crispy.
Remove and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

Any chicken cuts will work but you’ll find that dark meat (such as thighs or legs) produces the tastiest, juiciest fried chicken.

Nutrition

Nutritional values are approximate.

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