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.
Combine all brine ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the salt is dissolved and the honey is melted. Remove from heat and let cool.
For the chicken
Place the chicken in a large resealable container. Add the cooled brine. Refrigerate for 3 1/2 hours. Turn the chicken every 30 minutes or so if not fully submerged.
Fire up your Vortex. Fill it completely with charcoal.
Remove chicken from brine and rinse.
In a medium bowl, combine the egg, butter and milk.
In a resealable bag, combine the pancake mix, salt and pepper.
Working in batches, dip chicken into the egg mixture. Shake off excess then place in the bag. Seal and shake to coat.
Transfer chicken to the grill around the Vortex. Close the lid and cook for 30-45 minutes. Turn the lid every 15 minutes. Cook until the chicken reaches 165 F as tested in several places.
Lightly brush the chicken with oil and let cook another 5 minutes before removing.
Notes
Add a teaspoon or two of paprika, garlic powder and cayenne pepper to the coating mix for even more deliciousness!