Imagine a dish that combines the smoky richness of perfectly cooked chicken with a tantalizing cherry BBQ sauce that's both sweet and bold - this isn't just another recipe, it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen! Our Cinnamon Cured Smoked Chicken with homemade Cherry BBQ Sauce is about to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary gourmet experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cherries, pitted
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 chicken thighs, smoked
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by patting the thighs dry with paper towels and creating a dry rub mixture using ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C), using hickory or applewood chips for additional smoky flavor.
- Rub the chicken thighs thoroughly with the cinnamon seasoning, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Place the chicken thighs in the smoker and cook for approximately
- 5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is smoking, prepare the cherry BBQ sauce by pitting fresh cherries and placing them in a medium saucepan.
- Add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and additional cinnamon to the cherries.
- Simmer the sauce over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes until the cherries break down and the sauce thickens.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a standard blender to puree until smooth and consistent.
- Once the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature, remove from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes.
- Brush the smoked chicken generously with the homemade cherry BBQ sauce before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or thyme, and serve with additional sauce on the side.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches exactly 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Wood Chip Selection: Hickory or applewood chips provide the best smoky undertones for this recipe.
- Sauce Consistency: If your cherry BBQ sauce is too thick, add a little water; if too thin, continue simmering.
- Resting Time Matters: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after smoking to lock in those juicy flavors.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe, sweet cherries for the most vibrant sauce possible.
- Make Ahead: The BBQ sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme add a beautiful finishing touch and extra layer of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
