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Charcoal chicken is a popular dish that is often overlooked when searching for great places to eat. However, there is one under the radar charcoal chicken spot that deserves far more attention than it receives.
A Hidden Gem for Charcoal Chicken Lovers
Tucked away on a side street in the suburbs is a small, unassuming restaurant called The Charcoal Pit. At first glance, you may not think twice about this little joint. But once you step inside and get a whiff of the smokey, sizzling chickens roasting over an open charcoal grill, you’ll realize this place is a hidden gem for charcoal chicken lovers.
The Charcoal Pit has been serving up succulent, flavorful charcoal chicken near me for over 20 years. However, because of its location, many people simply drive right by without ever knowing what they’re missing out on. That’s why this under the radar charcoal chicken spot deserves far more attention. It’s time for more people to discover how delicious charcoal chicken can be when it’s perfectly seasoned and cooked over hot charcoal.
What Makes Their Charcoal Chicken So Good?
So what makes the charcoal chicken at The Charcoal Pit so mouthwateringly good? There are a few key factors that contribute to the irresistible flavor and texture of their charcoal-roasted birds.
First, they use only the highest quality fresh chicken sourced from local farms. This ensures the meat has that incredible just-off-the-farm flavor. The chickens are rubbed down with a proprietary blend of savory spices and herbs before hitting the hot coals. Then they slowly roast over charcoal, allowing the smoke to penetrate all the way to the bone. The result is a crispy skin encasing fall-off-the-bone tender, succulent meat imbued with smoky charcoal flavor in every bite.
In addition to the charcoal roasted chicken, another factor that makes The Charcoal Pit so special is their array of housemade sauces and condiments. From fiery and tangy to sweet and spicy, their sauces are the perfect complement to the subtly seasoned chicken. They also offer an impressive selection of homestyle sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and potato salad.
The Vibe and Overall Experience
The vibe at The Charcoal Pit is laidback and welcoming. Customers rave about the friendly staff and efficient service. The restaurant has a comfortable, inviting atmosphere with a nostalgic charm. With its checkered tablecloths and vintage menu boards, you feel like you’ve stepped back in time while enjoying a quintessential chicken dinner.
Another great perk of this under the radar joint is that the prices are very reasonable. You can get a half or quarter chicken meal with two sides and buttery cornbread for around $12 per person. For the quality and quantity of food, it’s an excellent value. They also offer convenient takeout and catering services, so you can enjoy their charcoal roasted chicken in the comfort of your home.
Time to Give Them a Try
If you live in the area and love charcoal chicken, it’s high time you checked out The Charcoal Pit. You’ll be so glad you discovered this under the radar spot. Their perfectly cooked charcoal chicken will have you craving more. Once you try it, you’ll want to come back again and again.
So if you’re searching for charcoal chicken near me and want a delicious meal in a casual setting with friendly service, look no further than The Charcoal Pit. Their melt-in-your-mouth charcoal roasted chicken deserves far more attention. Now that you know about this hidden gem, you can tell all your friends where to find the best charcoal chicken in town. Just don’t keep it too much of a secret, so this awesome little spot gets the business they deserve!
Why Should You Choose Charcoal Chicken?
Charcoal chicken has many advantages that make it stand out from other cooking methods. Here are some of the top reasons to choose charcoal roasted chicken:
Unmatched Flavor
The smoky, earthy flavor imparted by cooking over a real hardwood charcoal fire simply can’t be replicated. The chicken takes on a subtle charcoal-kissed taste that seeps down to the bone. You’ll never go back to oven roasted after tasting charcoal chicken.
Superior Moisture
Because the chicken cooks slowly over indirect charcoal heat, it remains incredibly moist and tender. The melted fat also bastes the chicken from the inside out. Charcoal roasting keeps the meat much juicier than high-heat oven cooking.
Improved Texture
The combination of smoke, rendered fat, and constant self-basting gives charcoal roasted chicken an unmatched texture. The skin gets perfectly crisp and crackly. The meat stays succulent. You get the best of both worlds in each bite.
Health Benefits
Cooking over charcoal imparts some health perks. The chicken has less fat and cholesterol than other cooking methods because the fat drips away. Charcoal’s high heat also locks in natural juices and nutrients.
Time-Honored Tradition
Humans have been cooking over fire and charcoal for thousands of years. Choosing charcoal chicken connects you to this age-old tradition. The nostalgic cooking method never goes out of style.
Tips for Making Charcoal Chicken at Home
After tasting the scrumptious charcoal roasted chicken at The Charcoal Pit, you’ll probably want to try your hand at making it at home in your own backyard or grill. Here are some helpful tips for charcoal chicken success:
Choose High-Quality Chicken
Start with fresh, organic, or pasture-raised chicken whenever possible. Higher quality chicken has more flavor and juices to start with.
Go For Bone-In Chicken Parts
Chicken parts like quarters, thighs, legs, and wings work best. The bones add moisture, flavor, and make it easy to handle on the grill. Skin-on is ideal for crisping.
Season Generously Under the Skin
Loosen skin and rub seasoning directly onto meat before grilling. Try salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, herbs.
Set Up Grill for Indirect Heat
Pile charcoal on one side. Place chicken on the other side so it cooks slowly over indirect medium heat, not direct high heat.
Go Low and Slow
Cook chicken with the grill lid closed for 45-60 mins. Rotate occasionally for even cooking. Shoot for 300-375°F temperature.
Check for Doneness
Chicken is done when breasts are 165°F and thighs/legs 175°F. Juices will run clear when pierced with a fork.
Let It Rest Before Serving
Once chicken is cooked through, let it rest 5-10 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute for a moist bird.
5 Delicious Dipping Sauces for Charcoal Chicken
A stellar charcoal chicken needs to be paired with an equally awesome dipping sauce. Here are 5 finger-licking good dipping sauce ideas:
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
This mayo-based white sauce adds tangy, creamy flavor. It’s a classic partner for smoky chicken.
Chimichurri Sauce
Herby, bright chimichurri sauce cuts through the richness of the chicken. It adds freshness.
Spicy Peanut Sauce
For a Thai flair, whip up an easy peanut sauce spiked with Sriracha for dipping.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Sweet honey and zesty mustard marry beautifully with charred chicken. Keep jars handy.
Ranch Dip
Cool, herbaceous ranch dresses up charcoal chicken wings and drums for party dunking.
With the right dipping sauce, charcoal roasted chicken goes from great to unforgettable. Now you have 5 delicious ideas to try!
Frequently Asked Questions About Charcoal Chicken
What’s the difference between grilled chicken and charcoal chicken?
Charcoal chicken is cooked slowly over indirect low heat from charcoal. Grilled chicken is cooked directly over high heat. Charcoal chicken has more smoky flavor.
What type of charcoal is best for cooking chicken?
Lump hardwood charcoal gives the most flavor. If using briquettes, choose a brand without lighter fluid so the chicken doesn’t absorb chemicals.
Can you use a charcoal grill to make charcoal chicken?
Yes! Set up grill for indirect cooking by piling coals on one side. Place chicken on the other side and keep grill below 375°F.
What is the best wood for smoking chicken?
Hickory and apple wood give chicken the richest, smokiest flavors. Oak, cherry, pecan, and mesquite woods also pair well.
How can you tell when charcoal chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken is done when breasts reach 165°F and thighs/legs reach 175°F. Juices will run clear when pricked.
Charcoal chicken is truly finger lickin’ good when done right. I hope this post has inspired you to seek out the best charcoal roasted chicken near me or try making it yourself. This under the radar cooking method deserves far more attention for its incredibly moist, smoky flavor. Once you have a taste, you’ll be hooked!