cornell chicken

Hey there! If you’re looking for a tasty way to jazz up your grilling game, let me introduce you to my favourite Cornell Chicken recipe. With its tangy marinade and juicy flavor, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion—whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a cozy family dinner. Ready to learn how to make this delicious chicken? Let’s get started!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Cornell chicken
Making Cornell Chicken is straightforward and requires just a handful of ingredients that you probably have in your pantry. The key hear is using fresh and quality ingredients to create a flavorful marinade. Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups cider vinegar: This gives the chicken a tangy flavor and tenderizes the meat beautifully.
- 1 cup vegetable oil: It helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling.
- 1 large egg: This binds the marinade ingredients together and adds richness.
- 3 tablespoons salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings a warm, aromatic twist to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Just enough to add a subtle kick.
- 1 whole chicken (3 to 3½ pounds), cut in half: Make sure you choose a fresh chicken for the best flavor and texture.
these ingredients might seem simple, but together they create a deliciously unique taste that’s hard to resist. When you mix this marinade and let the chicken soak, you’ll be treating your taste buds to something special. So, gather these ingredients and let’s make magic happen on the grill!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilling Cornell Chicken
now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: cooking! Here’s how to prepare and grill Cornell Chicken that’s sure to impress:
- Prepare the Marinade: in a blender, combine the cider vinegar, vegetable oil, egg, salt, poultry seasoning, and black pepper. Blend until smooth, creating a wonderful marinade.
- marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade into a resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken halves, ensuring they are well coated. Squeeze out the excess air before sealing the bag, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat the grill: About 30 minutes before grilling, preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Take the chicken out of the marinade and place it onto a paper towel-lined baking sheet.Pat the chicken dry gently; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken halves skin-side down on the grill over direct heat. Grill for 2 minutes. Then, turn the pieces, brush with some reserve marinade, and move to indirect heat. continue grilling while turning frequently enough and brushing with marinade until golden brown and cooked through, around 45 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Rest and Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the meat juicy.
Enjoy your flavorful and tender Cornell Chicken, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite dipping sauce! A homemade barbecue sauce or garlic aioli would elevate this dish perfectly.

serving and Storage Tips for Flavorful Cornell Chicken
when it comes to enjoying your Cornell Chicken, presentation is key, but so is proper storage. Here’s how to serve and store this delightful dish to keep it fresh and tasty:
- Serving Suggestions: Once your chicken is grilled to perfection, slice it into hearty portions. I love pairing it with sides like grilled corn on the cob, a light cucumber salad, or even a potato salad to soak up those delicious flavors. Drizzling a homemade garlic aioli or a spicy barbecue sauce on the chicken can elevate the dish even further, making every bite a flavorful experience.
- Leftover Storage: If you have any leftovers (which is rare,trust me),let the chicken cool wholly. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keeping the chicken sealed properly will help retain its moisture and flavor.
- Freezing Tips: you can also freeze the cooked chicken for later enjoyment.Wrap each chicken piece tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, it can last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheating Techniques: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, you can use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to keep the moisture in.
Following these serving and storage tips will help you savor your Cornell Chicken even longer!
Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Cornell Chicken
Making Cornell Chicken is a delight, but sometimes things might not go as planned. Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips to keep in mind:
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight. This extra time allows the cider vinegar and seasonings to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and tenderness. If you’re in a hurry, a minimum of 4 hours will still yield decent results.
- Grill Temperature: It’s essential to manage your grill’s temperature. Cooking the chicken over high heat can cause the outside to char while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium-high heat for even cooking and a nice char.
- using a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. This ensures food safety and keeps your chicken juicy.
- Adjusting Flavors: Feel free to tweak the amounts of salt and poultry seasoning according to your taste. If you enjoy a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or a bit of hot sauce to your marinade.
- Common Pitfalls: If your chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking or insufficient marinating time. Pay close attention to the cooking duration and always use the thermometer for best results.
By keeping these notes in mind, you’ll be set for success in making the perfect Cornell Chicken every time!