How to Make Cornell Chicken - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to classic American barbecue dishes, one cannot overlook the iconic Cornell Chicken. Originating from upstate New York, this marinade and grilling method for chicken has been a staple at picnics, fairs, and backyard cookouts for generations. Originally created by Dr. Robert C. Baker, a professor at Cornell University, this recipe has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite for many barbecue enthusiasts.

What sets Cornell Chicken apart from other grilled chi...

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups cider vinegar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 (3 to 3 1/2 pound) broiler-fryer chicken, cut in half

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 50 mins
  • Additional Time: 4 hrs 5 mins
  • Total Time: 5 hrs 5 mins
  • Servings: 6

  • Purée cider vinegar, oil, egg, salt, poultry seasoning, and pepper in a blender until smooth.
  • Pour marinade into a resealable plastic bag. Add chicken halves, coat with marinade, squeeze out excess air, and seal the bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  • Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil the grate.
  • Remove chicken halves from the bag and transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Pat chicken dry with more paper towels. Reserve marinade.
  • Place chicken, skin-side down, onto the preheated grill over direct heat. Grill for 2 minutes, then turn each piece, brush with marinade, and move to indirect heat. Continue to cook, turning often and brushing with marinade, until nicely browned and meat is no longer pink in the center, about 45 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone, should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Nutrition

    633 cal.

    • Total Fat: 54g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
    • Cholesterol: 127mg
    • Sodium: 3588mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 1g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Total Sugars: 0g
    • Protein: 33g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 35mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 287mg