Southern BBQ Chicken Recipe

Extra firm tofu: A plant-based protein that holds its shape well when grilled.

Bbq sauce: A tangy and smoky sauce that adds flavor to the tofu.

Olive oil: Used to coat the tofu and help the spices adhere.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a mild onion flavor.

Smoked paprika: Provides a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity.

When grilling tofu, ensure it is thoroughly pressed to remove excess moisture. This helps the spice mixture adhere better and allows the tofu to achieve a firmer texture. Additionally, using a grill pan can help prevent the tofu from sticking and breaking apart.

• extra firm tofu - Substitute with tempeh: Tempeh has a firm texture and absorbs marinades well, making it a great alternative to tofu in BBQ recipes.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade vegan bbq sauce: Making your own vegan BBQ sauce ensures it is free from animal products and allows you to control the ingredients for a healthier option.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable alternative for cooking and marinating.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh minced garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the dish.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Fresh onions offer a stronger and more natural flavor compared to onion powder.

• smoked paprika - Substitute with liquid smoke: Liquid smoke can provide a similar smoky flavor to dishes, though it should be used sparingly due to its strong taste.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with umami, enhancing the overall taste profile of the dish.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile, making it a good alternative.

• Allow the tofu to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the tofu soggy.
• Transfer the cooled tofu strips to an airtight container. For best results, use a container that fits the amount of tofu snugly to minimize air exposure.
• If you plan to consume the tofu within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the tofu. Place the tofu strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching each other. Freeze them for 1-2 hours, or until solid.
• Once the tofu strips are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the tofu strips in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can microwave the tofu strips on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover Southern BBQ Chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the tofu strips with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want to crisp up the edges.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet.
  3. Place the tofu strips in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until heated through and slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the Southern BBQ Chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe cover or another plate to retain moisture.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the tofu strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check for desired crispiness and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes if necessary.

• Grill Method:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Place the tofu strips on the grill and cover with a grill lid.
  3. Heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and grill marks reappear.
  4. Brush with additional bbq sauce if desired for extra flavor.

• Grill: Used to cook the tofu strips, giving them a smoky flavor and grill marks.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

• Tongs: Used to handle and turn the tofu strips on the grill.

• Basting brush: Used to brush the tofu with BBQ sauce.

• Knife: Used to cut the tofu into strips.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to cut the tofu.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the spices and olive oil.

• Plate: Used to serve the grilled tofu strips.

Press the tofu ahead: Press the tofu in advance to remove excess water, making it ready to absorb the spice mixture quickly.

Pre-mix spices: Combine the olive oil and spices in a jar ahead of time for quick and easy coating.

Use a grill pan: If you don't have a grill, use a grill pan on the stove to save setup time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and cook extra tofu strips for future meals, saving time on busy days.