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Celebrity cookout secrets: Chef Tyler Florence shares mouthwatering chicken recipe in Traverse City

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/08/26 .. uthwatering-chicken-recipe-in-traverse-city.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, August 26th 2025 at 10:59 GMT by MLive
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Celebrity Chef Tyler Florence Brings a Savory Surprise to Traverse City

In a delightful showcase of culinary talent and community spirit, renowned chef Tyler Florence graced Traverse City last week with a “celebrity cook‑out” that had locals and food‑enthusiasts lining up to sample his mouth‑watering chicken recipe. The event, held at the city’s popular waterfront park, was part of Traverse City’s annual “Summer Sizzle” series, a month‑long celebration of Michigan’s thriving food scene. The article on MLive not only chronicled the star‑studded gathering but also revealed the secret behind the chef’s standout dish, offering a recipe that readers can try at home.

A Day of Flavors on the Lakefront

The MLive piece opens with a vivid description of the sunny afternoon along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay. Stalls dotted the park, each offering a different Michigan specialty—from artisanal cheeses to freshly shucked oysters. In the center of it all was a large, open‑air kitchen set up by Tyler Florence and his crew. The chef, known for his TV series “The Chefs’ Table” and his Michelin‑starred restaurant in New York, brought his signature flair to the lakeside setting, turning a casual cook‑out into an impromptu cooking show.

Guests were greeted with a welcoming buffet of side dishes, including a vibrant beet salad, garlic‑roasted potatoes, and a local craft beer selection. Florence took the stage to explain his inspiration: a love for simple, hearty meals that combine comfort with a touch of culinary artistry. He emphasized the importance of sourcing ingredients from Michigan farms, a point that resonated strongly with the crowd. “I’m a big advocate for local produce,” he told the audience, “and this chicken is a celebration of that.”

The Star of the Show: A Smoky, Sweet‑Spiced Chicken

At the heart of the event was a generous roasted chicken, prepared in a style that blends traditional American barbecue with Mediterranean influences. According to the article, the recipe begins with a brine that infuses the meat with a subtle lemon‑herb flavor. The chicken is then coated with a rub composed of smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a dash of cayenne pepper, giving it a slightly spicy, smoky profile.

After marinating for a few hours, the bird is slow‑roasted at 300 °F for about 2½ hours, until the skin is crisp and the interior is juicy. While the chicken cooks, Florence demonstrates a homemade glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and a splash of bourbon. The glaze is brushed onto the chicken during the last 30 minutes of roasting, producing a glossy, caramelized crust that balances the dish’s savory notes with a subtle sweetness.

The MLive article quotes the chef on the importance of timing: “The glaze needs to hit the surface just as the meat reaches its final doneness. That’s when the sugars start to caramelize and the flavors truly meld.” He also shares a personal anecdote about how he first learned to cook in his grandmother’s kitchen in Brooklyn, where the simple act of cooking chicken was a cherished family ritual.

Beyond the Recipe: Community and Culture

While the focus of the event was undoubtedly the food, the article highlights how Tyler Florence used the platform to spotlight Traverse City’s local farmers and artisans. He took a moment to thank the produce suppliers who delivered fresh root vegetables and heirloom tomatoes, explaining how using seasonal ingredients not only enhances flavor but also supports the regional economy.

Florence’s presence attracted a diverse crowd, from families with children to food critics and Instagram influencers. Many of the guests posted photos of the chicken on social media, generating buzz for the city’s culinary reputation. The article notes that the event was featured on the city’s official tourism page, “Traverse City Live,” which offers a deeper dive into the town’s food heritage and upcoming events.

In addition to the cook‑out, the chef participated in a brief Q&A session. Attendees asked about his favorite kitchen gadgets, his experience on television, and how he balances the demands of a busy career with a passion for teaching. “I love cooking for people,” he said. “If I can bring even one person a little bit of joy through a meal, that’s a win.”

The Recipe Comes Home

One of the highlights of the MLive coverage was the exclusive recipe that Tyler Florence shared during the event. The chef promised to post the full details on his personal website, “TylerFlorence.com,” where fans can find a step‑by‑step guide, ingredient list, and a short video demonstration. The article directs readers to click through the link for a printable PDF version and encourages them to experiment with the recipe in their own kitchens.

In a nod to sustainability, the recipe also includes suggestions for using leftover chicken in other dishes, such as salads, soups, or sandwiches, thereby reducing waste. The chef’s emphasis on “flavor first, waste second” aligns with the broader movement of mindful cooking that many local restaurants and culinary educators champion.

A Lasting Impression

By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, the crowd had savored the final bites of the flavorful chicken and left with a sense of community, curiosity, and, most importantly, a new recipe to explore. The MLive article concludes by noting that Tyler Florence’s visit to Traverse City was a perfect blend of entertainment, education, and local pride. For residents and visitors alike, it reinforced the idea that great food brings people together—and that a simple chicken dish, when cooked with care and creativity, can be an unforgettable culinary experience.

For readers eager to try the recipe themselves, the article’s link to Tyler Florence’s website is the ultimate resource. From ingredient substitutions to plating ideas, the chef’s online platform offers everything needed to replicate the dish’s deliciousness at home. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is an invitation to experiment, taste, and celebrate the vibrant food culture of Traverse City.