Cornell Chicken from the Heart

My grandfather was a farmer in the heart of Cornell chicken country. He raised dairy cows, chickens, and corn in upstate New York and when he retired, he continued farming the most delicious corn – and even became adept at growing brussels sprouts – on the few acres behind his house.

Back in the day, Cornell chicken was widely popularized by Cornell University’s poultry science and agricultural program as an inexpensive protein alternative to beef. And Cornell’s very own Robert C. Baker actually invented the barbecue recipe now famous in Cornell chicken recipes – like the one my grandfather perfected. However, Baker’s real claim to fame was his invention of the chicken nugget, which he actually invented while at Penn State but only gained appreciation after he joined the faculty at Cornell. He would travel all over the country sharing his love of poultry and demonstrations of his recipes.

At one point, Cornell had approached my grandfather inviting him to be one of their instructors at the agricultural school but his love of farming kept his focus. I must say I’m glad it did because my grandfather’s Cornell chicken recipe is a summer classic, and brings back some of my fondest childhood memories.

This Fourth of July I’ll be grilling up a batch of my grandfather’s signature summer fare, complete with corn-on-the-cob for the side – though I’ll be getting my corn from the local farmer’s market. Give it try!

Enjoy!