Category: From the Vortex

Kentucky Kernel ‘Fried’ Chicken using the Vortex

I make a habit of checking out the fried chicken coating mixes at the grocery store. Sure, I can make my own, but there are so many great commercial mixes out there that I just can’t pass them up. I prefer to ‘fry’ my chicken on my Weber Performer using a Vortex insert. I get that perfectly juicy, crunchy skin, crazy good fried chicken flavor without all of the oil. Kentucky Kernel’s seasoned flour is a perfect mix of herbs and spices, making for some of the best tasting chicken I’ve ever had. Kentucky Kernel ‘Fried’ Chicken using the Vortex is amazing!

Kentucky Kernel 'Fried' Chicken using the Vortex

Any cut or cuts of chicken will do, but I think that ‘fried’ chicken on the Vortex is best when you use bone-in, skin-on pieces. For me that’s either split chicken breasts or thighs. No matter what you use, you’ll get very juicy tender meat and crispy skin and that’s what you’re here for. Make sure, though, that you don’t over-batter the thicken. You aren’t frying in oil. More is definitely not better when it comes to the batter. Just enough to coat the chicken is all you’ll need.

I like to brush my chicken (very lightly) with just a bit of oil just before I pull it off the grill. It gives the skin that last little special crunch.

Also try my copycat of the crazy-good fried chicken from Church’s, also 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
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Kentucky Kernel 'Fried' Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Kentucky Kernel ‘Fried’ Chicken using the Vortex

Perfectly juicy, crunchy skin, crazy good fried chicken flavor without all of the oil.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 4kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 4 pieces chicken skin-on chicken breasts (or whatever cuts you prefer. I used 4 large bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs)
  • Kentucky Kernel Seasoned Flour about 5 ounces will do

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.
  • Pour the seasoned flour mixture into a pie pan or shallow bowl.
  • Coat chicken completely in the mixture.
  • 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 a little vegetable oil. Use caution as the grill will be hot.
  • Cover and cook another 5 minutes or until the chicken hits 160 F.
  • Remove and let rest and come to 165 F before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 4kcal | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 4mg | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 1mg | 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

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

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.

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

Proper Pub Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Tom Kerridge is a Michelin-starred pub chef in England. Yes, pub chef. That’s why I knew that his recipe for proper pub fried chicken using the Vortex would be something special, something incredible. And, oh me, was it ever.

Proper Pub Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The seasonings give every single bite the most fantastic flavor. Tender, moist. And crunchy skin? Oh yes. You could deep fry it, but I cooked this chicken over charcoal using the Vortex and no oil. Yep, no oil (except for like a tablespoon to help crunch up the skin at the very end).

I have to admit something. I made a change to Chef Kerridge’s original recipe when I made this proper pub fried chicken using the Vortex. Please don’t hate me, but I added hot sauce to the buttermilk brine. I could not help myself. I ALWAYS add hot sauce to my buttermilk when using it for chicken. Not a whole lot, just a little bit to add a slight kick and offset the sourness. You don’t have to do it, and you don’t have to tell anyone if you do.

Also try my copycat of Church’s fried chicken, also 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
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Proper Pub Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

Proper Pub Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The seasonings give every single bite the most fantastic flavor. Tender, moist. And crunchy skin? Oh yes. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 12 hours 45 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 259kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Chef Tom Kerridge

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place chicken into a large resealable container.
  • Add enough buttermilk to cover the chicken. Add hot sauce, if using.
  • Seal and shake gently to coat the chicken and combine the hot sauce. Refrigerate overnight.
  • Fire up your Vortex. Fill completely with coals. You’ll need at least a 22″ charcoal grill.
  • Combine all dry ingredients and pour into a pie pan or alternatively, place in a large resealable bag.
  • Working in batches, remove chicken from the buttermilk. Shake off excess and roll in the coating. Alternatively, add the chicken to the bag, seal and shake to coat.
  • Place chicken around the edges of your grill. Cover and cook 30-45 minutes or until the chicken has reached 160 F as measured in several locations.
  • Lightly brush the chicken with the oil and cook another 5 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165 F as measured in several locations.

Nutrition

Calories: 259kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 2491mg | Potassium: 372mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 2399IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 193mg | 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

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 keeping do 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
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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

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

Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I use my Vortex BBQ a few times a week, usually for making a quick batch of wings for lunch for myself. For dinner, though, my go-to dish is ‘fried’ chicken using the same cooking technique as I do for wings. Just batter the chicken (I used bone-in thighs) and onto a hot (and I do mean hot) charcoal grill. In an hour or less I’ve got ‘fried’ chicken without the oil and mess. Crunchy, juicy, and tender, this Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex is amazingly good!

Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This version of buttermilk fried chicken actually began life as a way of making chicken for another of my favorites, chicken and waffles. Hence the hint of maple syrup. But you don’t need waffles. If you do serve them over waffles, drizzle with a bit more maple syrup just before serving. Either way, you’ll really enjoy some Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex.

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

Inspired by a recipe from Girl Carnivore.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Buttermilk Fried Chicken using the Vortex

This version of buttermilk fried chicken actually began life as a way of making chicken for another of my favorites, chicken and waffles. Hence the hint of maple syrup. But you don’t need waffles. If you do serve them over waffles, drizzle with a bit more maple syrup just before serving.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Servings 2 servings
Calories 1139kcal
Author Inspired by a recipe from Girl Carnivore

Equipment

Ingredients

For the chicken marinade

  • 4 chicken thighs boneless skinless ,or your favorite cuts
  • Buttermilk enough to cover the thighs
  • ¼ cup maple syrup

For the flour dredge

For the egg dredge

Instructions

  • Place the chicken in a resealable container or bag and add enough buttermilk to cover. Pour in the maple syrup, seal, and shake to combine.
  • Refrigerate overnight.
  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex insert. Once the coals are lit, prepare the chicken.
  • Prepare two dredging stations. Combine the flour dredge ingredients in a pie plate. In another, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk and syrup. Season both with salt and pepper.
  • Working in batches, remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade and shake off any excess.
  • Coat the chicken in the flour mixture and shake off any excess.
  • Next, roll the chicken in the egg mixture. Shake off any excess.
  • Finally, return the chicken to the flour mixture and coat again. Remove any excess and transfer to your grill, arranging the pieces around the edges.
  • Place the cover on the grill and cook 45 minutes to an hour, checking for doneness in multiple spots. I rotate the lid every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 1139kcal | Carbohydrates: 127g | Protein: 56g | Fat: 43g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 386mg | Sodium: 251mg | Potassium: 786mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 27g | Vitamin A: 842IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 119mg | Iron: 8mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Easy Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

There’s definitely no wrong way to make ‘fried’ chicken on your charcoal grill using the Vortex. I absolutely love it. For a long time I’ve been making my chicken using batter made from scratch. This time I decided to try an off-the-shelf batter mix usually meant for actual deep frying in oil. The result? Absolutely delicious, crunchy, moist fried chicken with about as little fuss and mess as possible. And no oil.

Easy Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex

Any good fried chicken batter mix will work. It’s called easy crispy fried chicken using the Vortex for a reason. Just dip and put onto the grill. I prefer to use split bone-in chicken breasts or thighs. I recommend bone-in chicken because it will have more flavor and won’t dry out as easily as boneless.

You can use boneless chicken but you might have to adjust the cook time. When I do need boneless ‘fried’ chicken I still cook it bone-on then remove the meat from the bone when done. If you prefer to make your own batter from scratch, try my super easy Vortex fried chicken recipe. For something a bit more fru-fru, make my spicy BBQ fried chicken. You’ll quickly see why fried chicken on the Vortex is fantastic!

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
Easy Crispy Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

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.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 332kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex insert. Get the coals good and hot.
  • In a large bowl combine 5 tablespoons of the batter mix with 1/4 cup of cold water.
  • Place the remaining batter mix in a shallow pie pan.
  • Working piece-by-piece, dredge the chicken in the wet batter mix. Shake off any excess then roll the chicken in the dry batter mix.
  • Transfer chicken to the grill, placing along the edges.
  • Cover and cook for 45 minutes, rotating the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes.
  • Check for doneness (165 F as measured in the thickest pieces of chicken), remove and serve.

Notes

I’ve found that rotating the lid isn’t very necessary, specially on smaller grills. You can experiment by not rotating and checking the chicken after 30 minutes. If the pieces are cooking evenly you can skip rotating the lid.

Nutrition

Calories: 332kcal | Protein: 29g | Fat: 23g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 116mg | Sodium: 108mg | Potassium: 291mg | Vitamin A: 216IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 17mg | 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

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

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.

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

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

Seasoned Steak Fries using the Vortex

I use a Vortex insert on several of my charcoal grills (love my Webers!), usually for making chicken of some variation or another. This time I thought I’d try something new and see if I could make steak fries just as easily and just as tasty. I could not have been happier with the results from these Seasoned Steak Fries using the Vortex. Tasty, creamy, seasoned perfectly, with a slight crunch. Perfect fries to go with my ‘fried’ chicken.

Seasoned Steak Fries using the Vortex

Seasoned steak fries using the Vortex are as easy to make as fries out of a bag from the freezer, really. The only thing you have to watch for is letting the fries slip thru your grill grates. On my smaller grills that’s not a problem since the grates are pretty narrow. The grate on my Weber Performer is a bit bigger, though, so I keep the fries at an angle to the grates so they don’t slip on through.

These steak fries are a great side dish for my Louisiana crispy fried chicken also 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
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 Steak Fries using the Vortex

I could not have been happier with the results. 
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 303kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Fry seasoning mix (makes enough for 6 potatoes)

Instructions

  • Fire up your charcoal grill with the Vortex insert.
  • Rinse the potatoes and pat dry.
  • Cut potatoes in half, then half again, and finally in half one more time. If your potatoes are exceptionally large you may want to halve them one more time but don’t make the fries too small.
  • Place fries in a large bowl. Add cold water and let sit for 5 minutes.
  • Drain the water and add fresh cold water. Let sit for 5 more minutes.
  • Drain the water and transfer the potatoes to a large towel. Pat dry.
  • Wipe the bowl dry and return the potatoes.
  • Add a splash of oil and toss to coat.
  • Add the seasoning mix and toss to coat.
  • Transfer fries to the grill. Place them at an angle to the grates so they don’t fall through.
  • Close the grill and cook for 1 hour, rotating the lid 90 degrees every 15 minutes. You can add other foods, such as wings or chicken pieces and cook them at the same time.
  • Start checking for doneness after 45 minutes. Mine took the full hour.
  • Remove from the grill and season with more salt before serving.

Notes

Note: I cooked my fries on a 22″ Performer. The fries were placed along the edges of the grill as far away from the Vortex as possible.

Nutrition

Calories: 303kcal | Carbohydrates: 69g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1198mg | Potassium: 1603mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 489IU | Vitamin C: 27mg | Calcium: 93mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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

Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I absolutely love making ‘fried’ chicken on my charcoal grill using the Vortex insert. Yeah, I know it’s not really fried, but that’s the point. You get that same crunchy exterior and moist tender interior, all without the oil. I use this recipe for southern fried chicken using the Vortex 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.

Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex

I usually cook chicken using the Vortex on my 22″ charcoal grill, the Weber Performer. You can buy a smaller Vortex for smaller grills and for grills made from manufacturers other than Weber, which works absolutely fantastic for chicken wings, but for bigger pieces like the split chicken breasts I used for southern fried chicken, I use a bigger grill so that the meat isn’t so close to the fire.

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
Southern Fried Chicken using the Vortex
Print Pin
5 from 2 votes

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.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 185kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Paula Deen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

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

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 808mg | Potassium: 83mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 122IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 21mg | 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

Spicy BBQ Fried Chicken using the Vortex

My goodness do I ever love cooking ‘fried’ chicken on my charcoal grill using the Vortex. In about an hour I end up with juicy chicken with a crispy coating, just like the real stuff. I find myself making it often, and 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.

Spicy BBQ Fried Chicken using the Vortex

The Vortex produces very high temperatures, so do not put the BBQ sauce on too early or it will char and even burn. Plus, you want the skin on the spicy BBQ fried chicken using the Vortex to crisp up good first. So wait until near the end to sauce them up!

I usually use split chicken breasts on the Vortex (unless I’m making chicken wings, which I do at least twice a week). Or, I often use skin-on bone-in thighs. Bone-in cuts stay juicier. You do not have to keep the skin on to still get a crunchy crust, though. The batter provides enough crunch without it.

Also try my crazy-good spicy buttermilk fried chicken and my dip-fried chicken, both 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
VORTEX (IN)DIRECT HEAT for Charcoal Grills, Medium Size – For Weber Kettle 22 26.75 WSM Smokey Mountain XL Kamado XL Big Green Egg
Spicy BBQ Fried Chicken using the Vortex
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5 from 1 vote

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.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword fried chicken, Vortex
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 185kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Paula Deen

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

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

Nutrition

Calories: 185kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 808mg | Potassium: 83mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 122IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 21mg | 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