Monday, August 3, 2015

Big Chickie

5520 Rainier Ave South
Seattle, WA 98118
(206) 946-1519
Website

On a recent trip out West, rave reviews from folks I trust on food brought me to Big Chickie. I typically wouldn't seek out rotisserie chicken, but I figured it was worth a try. Big Chickie does things better than what we are used to. Charcoal rotisserie chicken served until they run out. A whole host of sides, and beer.


They've got a great logo too. Located in Hillman City, just about 20 minutes SE of downtown Seattle, they have all outdoor seating, half covered, so the rain can't get in the way of your night out for some down-home cooking.


The whole chicken (for two people) is the way to go, and comes with dips, two sides, and cornbread.


They untie and quarter the bird to order. Look at that skin. The slow charcoal, rotisserie cooking renders out the fat but the skin just keeps it nice and tight and lets it absorb back into the meat; distributes that flava' evenly.


It was so rich, dark and flavorful with tender, meltingly juicy meat underneath. The spice rub has notes of cumin, lots of garlic and paprika.


The flavor was unbelievable. I have been trying to re-create this experience on my Big Green Egg in the time since, and have gotten close, but am not there yet.


As though that beautiful bird wasn't enough, the sides were great as well. Some of them were dangerously close to healthy, but never the less were still flavorful and delicious.


From left: chili glazed carrots, lime glazed sweet potatoes, kale salad, and cheesy potatoes.


Potatoes were the big winner here. Rich, cheesy, and gooey. They had just enough salt, and the potatoes were tender with crispy tops.


Kale salad was surprisingly good, and had raisins, edamame, carrots, and a homemade lemon dressing.


The sweet potatoes were good, but could have used a glaze or something sweet/spicy. They were nice and acidic, but I was just left wanting a bit more.


The chili glazed carrots were incredible. Very spicy, tender, and thoroughly coated in a sweet and smoky glaze. Big fan.


The saddest thing in the world has to be rolling up and seeing the neon below lit up. Some folks after us had that misfortune, and you could hear their heart breaking. Ordering the sides alone is okay, but that bird would bring me back.


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