Brined Grilled Chicken Drumsticks Or Thighs With White BBQ Sauce

Step 1: Brine ... Add everything to a bowl (non-reactive [glass], or a ziplock bag), I prefer a bag. Close the bag or mix, until everything is combined. Using a room temperature or warm water will help to let the salt and sugars dissolve. Let the brine set 10-15 minutes to cool off a bit, before you add the chicken. You can even set it in the fridge if you want ... it doesn't have to be COLD; but, you don't want it warm either. Add the chicken and close the bag. Make sure everything is completely submerged. Make sure to brine the chicken 3-4 hours in the refrigerator. NOTE: I usually set the ziploc bag in a bowl or pan ... just in case it leaks.

Step 2: Sauce ... I also like to make the sauce ahead; and let it set in the refrigerator to 'mary;' develop it's flavors. Just add everything to a small bowl and mix. Cover and refrigerate. Check out the recipe if you want - http://www.recipezazz.com/recipe/quick-and-easy-white-bbq-sauce-21100.

Step 3: Chicken ... Remove the chicken from the brine; and make sure to toss the brine out ... it did it's job. Rinse the chicken in cold water, pat the chicken dry using a paper towel; and, brush with olive oil, or use an atomizer or spray. Then, season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Grill ... I did mention, that this is really best on an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan. Yes, you can use an oven; but, it just doesn't have the same flavor. Add the chicken to a medium heat grill, well seasoned; and grill turning often. After 15 minutes, the skin should be rendered down; and, you should have a nice char on the skin. Brush each drumstick with some of the sauce; and move to the indirect side of the grill to finish cooking. After another 10 minutes or so, turning often ... brush again with some of the sauce. Cook 5-10 minutes; and, finish with the last bit of sauce before serving. This method is for an outdoor grill; but, also works on a grill pan too. Total cooking time is 30-40 minutes. Again; this really depends on the size of the legs or thighs. Thirty five (35) minutes is usually what I plan on; but, just keep an eye on them. It takes about 40-45 minutes in a 400 degree oven. Same method applies; however, you will not get those good grill marks.

Step 5: Serve and ENJOY! ... These go great with just about anything! Potato salad, slaw, baked beans, etc. They are sweet; but, yet have a nice tang to them. I happen to like thighs and drumsticks/legs for this; but, you could also use chicken quarters or even breasts. I just enjoy the drumsticks. Make sure to garnish with a little fresh thyme; and the remaining half of orange cut in a few wedges.