Big Bob Gibson's Chicken With White Barbecue Sauce
When it comes to Southern cuisine, few dishes are as iconic as barbecue. And while most people associate barbecue with rich, smoky flavors and sticky, sweet sauces, there's a lesser-known style of barbecue that's just as delicious: white barbecue sauce.
White barbecue sauce is a tangy, mayonnaise-based sauce that's traditionally used to dress chicken. And while it may seem like an unusual pairing at first, the tangy, creamy sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky, charred flavor of grilled chicken.
The History of White Barbecue Sauce
White barbecue sauce has its roots in North Alabama, where it was first created by a man named Big Bob Gibson in the 1920s. Gibson was a barbecue pitmaster who ran a small restaurant in Decatur, Alabama, and he was known for his delicious smoked chicken.
Legend has it that one day, Gibson was looking for a way to change things up and add some variety to his menu. He hit upon the idea of creating a tangy, mayonnaise-based sauce to dress his chicken, and the rest is history.
Today, Big Bob Gibson's white barbecue sauce is a Southern classic, and it's served at barbecue joints and restaurants all over the region.
What Makes White Barbecue Sauce So Special?
So what is it that makes white barbecue sauce so special? For one thing, it's incredibly versatile. While it's traditionally used as a chicken dressing, it's also great on pork, beef, and even fish.
But what really sets white barbecue sauce apart is its flavor. It's tangy and slightly acidic, with a subtle sweetness that balances out the tang. The mayonnaise gives it a creamy, rich texture that complements the smoky flavor of grilled meats perfectly.
How to Make Big Bob Gibson's Chicken With White Barbecue Sauce
If you're ready to try your hand at making Big Bob Gibson's chicken with white barbecue sauce, here's what you'll need:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
To make the white barbecue sauce, simply combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl and whisk until smooth. Set aside.
Next, season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, and grill them over medium heat until they're cooked through and charred on the outside.
Once the chicken is done, brush each piece liberally with the white barbecue sauce, making sure to coat both sides. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Conclusion
Big Bob Gibson's chicken with white barbecue sauce is a Southern classic for a reason. The tangy, creamy sauce is the perfect complement to smoky, charred grilled chicken, and it's versatile enough to use on all kinds of meats.
If you've never tried white barbecue sauce before, now's the time to give it a shot. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just someone who loves good food, this classic Southern dish is sure to satisfy.