Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle or Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box? Which Camp Chef Model to Buy
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When you compare camp chef sidekick grill accessory vs grill barbecue box, you are looking at two very different Camp Chef additions. Both units are designed for camping and outdoor cooking, but they serve distinct purposes. The Sidekick is a flat top griddle accessory that attaches to your existing pellet grill. The BBQ Grill Box is a standalone, heavy-duty cast iron grill that fits a specific 16-inch stove. Your choice depends on whether you want to expand your pellet grill’s capabilities or add a dedicated grilling station.
Key differences
| Aspect | Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle Accessory | Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Surface Type | Flat top griddle | Cast iron grill grates |
| Cooking Area | 231 sq. in. | 384 sq. in. |
| Heat Source | 28,000 BTU propane burner | Infrared heat from 16-inch stove |
| Weight | 7.05 pounds | 33 pounds |
| Included Lid | Not listed | Hinged vented lid with thermometer |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle Accessory if
- You want to add a flat top griddle to your 24 or 36-inch Camp Chef pellet grill
- You prefer a lightweight accessory that weighs just over 7 pounds
- You need precise heat control with a fully adjustable knob and wind baffled technology
Choose Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box if
- You need a larger 384 square inch cooking area for bigger meals
- You already own a 16-inch Orange Flame Camp Chef stove
- You want a unit with a hinged lid and built-in thermometer for easier temperature management
Verdict: The Sidekick is the better choice if you already have a compatible pellet grill and want to add versatile flat top cooking without much extra weight. The BBQ Grill Box is the right pick if you have a 16-inch stove and need a robust, standalone grilling solution with a larger surface area and a lid.
Sidekick vs BBQ Grill Box Specs
Cooking surface area
The Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle provides a cooking area of 231 square inches, with dimensions of 14 inches by 16.5 inches. This compact surface is ideal for smaller meals or limited counter space. In contrast, the Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box offers a significantly larger cooking area of 384 square inches. Its grates measure 16 inches by 24 inches, giving you more room to cook multiple items at once. If you need to prepare food for a larger group or want to sear bigger cuts of meat, the BBQ Grill Box provides the extra space. The Sidekick is better for individual or small family portions.
Heat source and control
The Sidekick is a propane-powered accessory featuring a 28,000 BTU cast-aluminum burner. It includes a fully adjustable heat-control knob, matchless ignition, and wind baffled technology for consistent performance in various conditions. The BBQ Grill Box does not list a specific BTU output or fuel type in its data, as it is designed as an accessory for the 16-inch Orange Flame Stove. It uses heat diffuser plates to turn the flame into infrared heat. The Sidekick offers precise electronic control and high BTU output, while the BBQ Grill Box relies on the stove it attaches to for power. You get immediate heat adjustment with the Sidekick.
Build material and weight
Material choice affects durability and portability. The Sidekick weighs only 7.05 pounds, making it easy to transport and handle during camping trips. Its construction includes a cast-aluminum burner. The BBQ Grill Box is much heavier at 33 pounds. It features heavy-duty cast iron grill grates with a true seasoned finish. Cast iron holds heat well and sears meat effectively, but the significant weight makes it less portable. The Sidekick is better for mobility, while the BBQ Grill Box offers robust, heavy-duty construction for stable, stationary cooking. Choose based on how often you move the equipment.
Included accessories and features
The Sidekick includes a propane tank holder and a professional flat top griddle with a ready-to-cook true seasoned surface. It also features a grease management system for easier cleanup. The BBQ Grill Box comes with a hinged lid equipped with a thermometer and a vented design. The lid locks down for secure transportation. It also includes cast iron grates that are ready to cook out of the box. The Sidekick focuses on flat top versatility with grease management, while the BBQ Grill Box emphasizes temperature monitoring and secure transport. Each unit provides distinct features tailored to its cooking style.
Compatibility with stoves
Compatibility is crucial for integration with your existing gear. The Sidekick fits all full-sized Camp Chef 24 and 36-inch pellet grills and is compatible with most Camp Chef 14-inch accessories. The BBQ Grill Box is specifically designed to fit the 16-inch Orange Flame Camp Chef 16-inch Stove. You cannot use the Sidekick with the 16-inch stove, nor the BBQ Grill Box with pellet grills. Your choice depends entirely on your current Camp Chef equipment. If you own a 14-inch accessory system or a large pellet grill, the Sidekick is the correct fit. For the 16-inch stove, the BBQ Grill Box is required.
Which Camp Chef Accessory Fits Your Needs
You want to cook eggs and pancakes on a flat surface
The Sidekick Flat Top Griddle offers a 231 square inch cooking area. Its 14 by 16.5 inch surface is perfect for flipping burgers or grilling vegetables evenly. The 28,000 BTU cast-aluminum burner provides consistent heat control. You get a seasoned surface ready for immediate use without the mess of traditional grates.
You need a large area for searing steaks and chops
The BBQ Grill Box provides a massive 384 square inch cooking area. Its 16 by 24 inch cast iron grates retain heat well for superior searing. The hinged lid with a thermometer allows you to monitor internal temperatures easily. This setup handles large cuts of meat better than the smaller Sidekick griddle.
You prioritize lightweight gear for easy transport to the campsite
Weighing only 7.05 pounds, the Sidekick is significantly lighter than the 33-pound BBQ Grill Box. Its compact dimensions of 18 by 20.5 by 6 inches make it easy to pack. You can carry it alongside other gear without taking up excessive space in your vehicle or backpack during your outdoor adventures.
The products compared
Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle Accessory
Best for: Camp Chef pellet grill owners adding a flat top
- Cooking Area
- 231 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Propane
- Total Heat Output
- 28,000 BTU
- Cooking Dimensions
- 14 in. x 16.5 in.
- Application
- Camping
- Compatible Appliance
- Griddle
View on Amazon: Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle Accessory Affiliate link
The Camp Chef Sidekick is a 28,000 BTU flat top griddle accessory designed for full-sized Camp Chef pellet grills. It offers 231 square inches of cooking space, measuring 14 by 16.5 inches. The unit includes a cast-aluminum burner, wind baffled technology, and a grease management system. It weighs 7.05 pounds and fits most 14-inch Camp Chef accessories. This setup suits you if you need a versatile outdoor cooking surface for searing or baking.
Pros
- 28,000 BTU cast-aluminum burner provides strong heat output
- 231 square inch total surface area for ample cooking space
- Wind baffled technology helps maintain consistent temperature
- Includes a grease management system for easier cleanup
Cons
- Smaller 14 by 16.5 inch cooking dimensions than the 16-inch Grill Box
- Limited to 231 square inches of total surface area
- Requires a compatible full-sized Camp Chef pellet grill for installation
Good fit if
- You own a full-sized Camp Chef pellet grill and want to add a flat top surface
- You need a compact 14-inch accessory that fits standard Camp Chef accessory mounts
- You prioritize wind resistance and grease management for outdoor cooking
Skip if
- You need a standalone unit that does not require a larger grill
- You require a cooking surface larger than 231 square inches
- You are looking for a dedicated 16-inch grill rather than an accessory
Verdict: Camp Chef Sidekick 28K BTU Flat Top is a practical accessory for existing Camp Chef pellet grill owners who want to expand their cooking options with a flat top surface. It fits users who value wind resistance and grease management in a compact 14-inch footprint.
Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box
Best for: searing steaks on a compatible stove
- Cooking Area
- 384 sq in
- Surface Material
- Cast Iron
- Cooking Dimensions
- 16" x 24"
- Cover Type
- Hinged Lid
- Application
- Camping
- Heating Method
- Infrared
View on Amazon: Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box Affiliate link
This is a 16-inch cast iron grill box designed for the Camp Chef 16-inch stove. It provides 384 square inches of cooking space. The heavy-duty construction weighs 33 pounds. A hinged lid with a thermometer helps you manage heat. It turns flame into infrared heat for searing. This setup suits tailgating or camping trips where you need durable, portable grilling capacity.
Pros
- 384 sq. in. cast iron cooking area
- Hinged lid with built-in thermometer
- True seasoned finish for better searing
- Latches grates down for transport
Cons
- 33 lbs weight limits easy portability
- Requires assembly before first use
- No digital temperature control
Good fit if
- You own a Camp Chef 16-inch stove
- You need high-heat searing for steaks
- You prioritize durable cast iron grates
Skip if
- You prefer a flat top griddle surface
- You want a lightweight portable setup
- You lack a compatible 16-inch stove
Verdict: Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box delivers serious searing power for those with a matching stove. It fits buyers who value heavy-duty cast iron construction over convenience features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle Accessory | Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 231 sq. in. | 384 sq in |
| Fuel Type | Propane | not stated |
| Total Heat Output | 28,000 BTU | not stated |
| Surface Material | not stated | Cast Iron |
| Cooking Dimensions | 14 in. x 16.5 in. | 16" x 24" |
| Cover Type | not stated | Hinged Lid |
| Application | Camping | Camping |
| Compatible Appliance | Griddle | not stated |
| Heating Method | not stated | Infrared |
| Dimensions | 21.5 × 20.1 × 11 inches | 16 × 24 × 7 inches |
| Weight | 7.05 pounds | 33 pounds |
| Size | 14 cooking system compatible | 16" x 24" x 8" (Large) |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | PG14 | BB-90L |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Sidekick flat top fit on my Camp Chef pellet grill?
Yes, the Camp Chef Sidekick is designed specifically as an accessory for existing pellet grill owners. It is compatible with the 14-inch cooking system, allowing you to attach it directly to your grill. This makes it a practical addition if you already own a matching pellet smoker and want to expand your cooking options without buying a new unit.
How heavy is the Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box?
The Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box weighs 33 pounds. This significant weight comes from its heavy-duty cast iron construction, which is built to deliver serious searing power. You should consider this weight if you plan to move the unit frequently, as it is not designed for portability in the same way lighter accessories are.
What are the dimensions of the Sidekick griddle?
The Camp Chef Sidekick Flat Top Griddle measures 20.1 inches in width, 21.5 inches in length, and 11 inches in height. It weighs just 7.05 pounds, making it a compact addition to your setup. These dimensions allow it to fit comfortably on compatible grills without taking up excessive space or requiring a large storage area when not in use.
Can I use the BBQ Grill Box for searing steaks?
Yes, the Camp Chef 16-Inch BBQ Grill Box is ideal for searing steaks on a compatible stove. Its large 16 by 24 inch cooking surface and heavy cast iron build provide the necessary heat retention for high-temperature cooking. If you value heavy-duty performance over convenience features, this unit delivers the serious searing power needed for perfect crusts.
Is the Sidekick suitable for camping trips?
Yes, the Camp Chef Sidekick is listed with a camping application. Its lightweight design at 7.05 pounds and compact 14-inch footprint make it easy to transport. It is a practical accessory for campers who want to add a flat top surface to their pellet grill setup, offering wind resistance and manageable grease control in a portable package.
How does the size of the BBQ Grill Box compare to the Sidekick?
The BBQ Grill Box is significantly larger than the Sidekick. It offers a 16 by 24 inch cooking surface, whereas the Sidekick provides a smaller 14 by 16.5 inch area. The Grill Box also stands 7 inches high and weighs 33 pounds, compared to the Sidekick’s 11-inch height and 7-pound weight. Choose the Grill Box for larger meals and the Sidekick for compact cooking.