As the sun dips lower in the sky and the scent of charcoal begins to fill the air, there’s a calling for that quintessential backyard barbecue experience. I first encountered Cornell chicken at a local summer festival, where the scent wafted from a grill, drawing me in like the best of promises. This dish, with its crispy, golden skin and smoky undertones, is more than just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that speak to the heart of Upstate New York’s barbecue culture.
What sets Cornell chicken apart is its tangy marinade, crafted from simple ingredients like apple cider vinegar and poultry seasoning. This not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also ensures it stays juicy and tender through the grilling process. It’s a recipe that welcomes warm gatherings, making it perfect for those weekends when you’re delighted to share homemade goodness with family and friends.
Join me in recreating this smoky delight that’s guaranteed to impress without keeping you tethered to the grill all day. Let’s dive into the steps to master this traditional dish!
Why is Cornell Chicken a BBQ Favorite?
Unique Flavor: This recipe features a zesty marinade that elevates the classic barbecue taste, making every bite irresistible.
Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, anyone can whip up this delicious dish.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this chicken is sure to impress family and friends at any summer event.
Versatile Variations: Customize the marinade with different herbs or spices to cater to your taste preferences.
Juicy and Tender: The effective marinade ensures your chicken remains moist and flavorful, promising a delightful eating experience.
Quick Grilling Time: In just a couple of hours, you’ll be savoring smoky, grilled perfection without spending all day at the grill!
Cornell Chicken Ingredients
For the Marinade
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds tanginess and tenderizes the chicken; substitute with white vinegar for a milder taste.
- Egg – Acts as an emulsifier and helps the seasoning adhere; don’t omit for the perfect marinade consistency.
- Neutral Oil (Grapeseed, Avocado, Safflower) – Provides moisture without burning; avoid olive oil which has a lower smoke point.
- Poultry Seasoning (e.g., McCormick) – Imparts herbal flavor notes; you can create your own blend with sage, thyme, marjoram, nutmeg, and pepper.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; using kosher salt results in better texture and is easier to measure.
For Grilling
- Chicken Parts (skin-on, bone-in) – The robust meat ensures juicy bites that showcase the brilliant smoky flavor of the Cornell chicken marinade.
This collection of ingredients brings the essence of Upstate New York to your barbecue, making your gathering one to remember!
How to Make Cornell Chicken
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Prepare Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, neutral oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and poultry seasoning until everything is smoothly emulsified, creating a tangy blend ready to transform your chicken.
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Marinate Chicken: Submerge the skin-on, bone-in chicken pieces into your flavorful marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably up to 8 hours, for maximum flavor infusion.
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Preheat Grill: While the chicken is marinating, set up your charcoal grill for indirect cooking. Preheat it until it reaches a high temperature, ideally around 350°F, which is perfect for achieving that crispy skin.
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Baste and Grill: Reserve a portion of the marinade for later use. Grill the marinated chicken skin-side down, flipping it every 10-15 minutes, and baste it with the reserved marinade. Cook until you achieve dark, crispy skin and the internal temperature hits 165°F.
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Rest: Once grilled to perfection, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
Optional: Serve with fresh, grilled corn on the side for a true summer feast!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cornell chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Simply whisk together the egg, neutral oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and poultry seasoning, then store the marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to grill, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or up to 8 hours, for maximum flavor infusion. To maintain quality, ensure the chicken is well-coated in the marinade and keep it refrigerated until grilling. When it’s time to serve, grill as directed, and you’ll enjoy succulent, smoky goodness with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Cornell Chicken?
The perfect summer feast doesn’t stop at the grill; let’s complete your gathering with delightful pairings that enhance every bite!
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the chicken, making it a delightful companion.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred kernels provide a burst of flavor and sweetness, playing beautifully against the tangy marinade of the chicken.
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Potato Salad: A classic summer staple, this dish brings creaminess and herbal notes to the table, perfectly balancing the barbecue goodness.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers mixed with a tangy vinaigrette add a burst of freshness and help cleanse the palate.
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Baked Beans: The sweet and savory profile of baked beans complements the smoky essence of Cornell chicken, creating a hearty and satisfying pairing.
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Sparkling Lemonade: Refreshingly citrusy and bubbly, this drink contrasts the rich flavors of the chicken, keeping your guests cool and energized.
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Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing sweetness, making it a light yet satisfying end to your meal.
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Homemade Peach Cobbler: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat perfectly rounds out a summer barbecue, as its juicy fruit accents the smoky chicken.
Expert Tips for Cornell Chicken
- Marinade Time: Aim for at least 8 hours for deeper flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the juicier it becomes.
- Direct vs. Indirect Heat: Use indirect cooking to avoid burning the marinade. Start skin-side down for crispy results!
- Basting Brush Hygiene: Always use a clean brush for basting, ensuring food safety while enhancing the flavor of your Cornell chicken.
- Watch the Temperature: Keep a close eye on the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for 165°F to guarantee it’s perfectly cooked.
- Crispy Skin Tip: Allow the skin to dry slightly before marinating; this helps achieve that desirable crispiness once grilled.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Give your chicken space on the grill for even cooking and to develop that beautiful smoky flavor.
Cornell Chicken Variations
Get ready to personalize your Cornell chicken experience with flavors and textures that tantalize your taste buds!
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Vinegar Swap: Use white balsamic or wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a mellower twist. You’ll discover a new depth of flavor that still retains that tangy characteristic.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or basil instead of standard poultry seasoning, adding bright notes that elevate the dish. A sprinkle of freshness can change the entire flavor profile, bringing a delightful summer garden touch.
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the marinade for a fiery edge. This small adjustment brings an exciting heat that will awaken your palate and keep your guests coming back for more.
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Citrusy Brightness: Add zest from a lemon or orange into the marinade. This fruity infusion provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky grilled chicken, enhancing the overall flavor balance.
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Sweet Touch: Pour in a hint of honey or maple syrup for a delightful contrast to the vinegar’s sharpness. This balance of sweet and tangy adds another layer of complexity that’s simply irresistible.
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Texture Twist: Incorporate crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for a wonderful crunch. Sprinkle them on top after grilling, bringing a pleasant texture that contrasts with the juicy chicken.
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Marinade Variations: Replace the egg with Greek yogurt for a creamier marinade. This swap not only tenderizes the chicken further but also adds a rich tang that complements the smoky flavor beautifully.
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Dry Rub Alternative: For a different grilling technique, try a dry rub of spices on the chicken skin before grilling. This creates a crispy crust while still allowing the chicken to soak in that delicious smoky flavor.
Feel free to play around with these ideas and find your favorite combination to create a memorable Cornell chicken feast!
How to Store and Freeze Cornell Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Cornell chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore juiciness, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Optionally, baste with a little marinade for added flavor.
Thawing: Always thaw frozen Cornell chicken in the refrigerator overnight for safe and even defrosting before reheating.
Cornell Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Cornell chicken?
Absolutely, for the most authentic Cornell chicken experience, I recommend using skin-on, bone-in chicken parts such as thighs or drumsticks. These cuts stay juicier during grilling and allow the marinade to penetrate well, ensuring maximum flavor and tenderness.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
To achieve the best results, I suggest marinating your chicken for at least 4 hours, but if time permits, let it soak for up to 8 hours or even overnight. This extended marination allows the flavors to deepen and the chicken to remain moist during grilling.
How should I store leftover Cornell chicken?
To ensure your leftover Cornell chicken remains fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 4 days. For longer preservation, you can freeze it. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, followed by placing it in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn.
Can I freeze Cornell chicken? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Cornell chicken, first allow it to cool to room temperature. Wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What if my chicken is dry after grilling?
Very! If you find your chicken is dry, this could happen if it was overcooked. Always use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. If your chicken does turn out too dry, consider serving it with a flavorful sauce or adding a little broth while reheating to infuse some moisture back into the meat.
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
Yes, this Cornell chicken recipe can be made allergy-friendly! To accommodate those with egg allergies, you could try substituting the egg with a flaxseed solution – mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, and let it sit until it thickens. As always, make sure to check the seasonings for allergens before use!
Succulent Cornell Chicken: Your Ultimate Summer BBQ Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, neutral oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and poultry seasoning until smoothly emulsified.
- Submerge chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably up to 8 hours.
- Set up your charcoal grill for indirect cooking, preheating until it reaches around 350°F.
- Reserve part of the marinade. Grill the chicken skin-side down, flipping every 10-15 minutes, basting with reserved marinade until the skin is crispy and internal temperature is 165°F.
- Remove grilled chicken and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to distribute.