The sizzling sound of chicken hitting the grill is like music to my ears—a true symphony of summer! As the sun warms the backyard, I can already picture friends gathered around, their laughter mingling with the mouthwatering aroma of my Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken. This recipe stands out not just for its juicy, tender meat but also for its unbeatable sweet and tangy glaze that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for those pick-me-up summer cookouts, it highlights a simple yet exciting way to elevate your grilling game while being gluten-free and crowd-pleasing. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious feast that brings people together. Who’s ready to light up the grill for a taste of summer magic?
Why is BBQ Grilled Chicken a Must-Try?
Unforgettable Flavors: This recipe combines sweet and tangy BBQ sauce with smoky notes for a truly mouthwatering experience.
Quick & Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and under an hour of cooking, you’ll have delicious chicken ready in no time—perfect for spontaneous summer gatherings!
Juicy & Tender: Using bone-in chicken thighs ensures that every piece is succulent and full of flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for sure.
Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different proteins, like chicken wings or pork chops, using this same marinade or by tweaking the spices for your palate.
Ideal for Summer: Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a simple weeknight dinner, this BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe is the perfect choice to bring everyone together.
BBQ Grilled Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs – Ensures tenderness and moisture during grilling; drumsticks are a great substitute.
• Olive oil – Enhances browning and flavor while acting as a key marinating agent.
For the Marinade
• BBQ sauce – Adds that signature sweet and tangy flavor; use your favorite store-bought or homemade version.
• Apple cider vinegar – Brings acidity to balance flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
• Brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and aids in achieving caramelization on the grill.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses a smoky depth to the marinade; chipotle powder can be used for an extra kick.
• Garlic powder – Provides aromatic flavor.
• Onion powder – Further enhances the savory profile.
• Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this step!
• Black pepper – Adds mild heat for balance.
• Cayenne pepper – Optional for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
For the Final Touch
• Additional BBQ sauce – Brush on during the last few minutes of grilling to create a gorgeous caramelized glaze.
Get ready to savor summer with this delightful BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep Chicken
Start by patting the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve that crispy skin everyone loves. Once dried, place the chicken in a large mixing bowl and set aside while you whip up the flavorful marinade.
Step 2: Make Marinade
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Add 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, and season with kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper as desired. This easy marinade for the BBQ Grilled Chicken will bring incredible flavor, so mix until well combined.
Step 3: Marinate Chicken
Now, rub the marinade generously under the skin and over the entire surface of the chicken thighs. Ensure every piece is well-coated for maximum flavor infusion. Allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for about 10 minutes, or refrigerate it for up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
Step 4: Preheat Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature of 375°F to 400°F. This is the sweet spot for grilling chicken. Don’t forget to oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in oil—this prevents sticking and ensures those beautiful grill marks.
Step 5: Grill Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down directly onto the hot grill. Grill without moving them for 5-6 minutes, allowing that delicious skin to crisp up. Once golden, flip the chicken over and continue grilling for another 5-6 minutes on the other side.
Step 6: Continue Cooking
After the initial grilling, flip the chicken every 5 minutes, cooking until the chicken is almost fully cooked through, which should take about 25 minutes in total. Keep an eye on the color; the skin should be beautifully charred and crispy, adding to the appeal of this BBQ Grilled Chicken recipe.
Step 7: Apply BBQ Sauce
In the final 5 minutes of cooking, brush your favorite BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken. This allows the sauce to caramelize perfectly over the crispy skin, adding a rich, smoky flavor that complements the juicy meat.
Step 8: Check Doneness
Remove the BBQ Grilled Chicken from the grill once the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness accurately. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute for ultimate tenderness.
Expert Tips for BBQ Grilled Chicken
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Proper Preheating: Ensure the grill reaches a medium heat of 375°F-400°F before adding the chicken. This prevents sticking and promotes beautiful grill marks.
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Timing the Sauce: Apply BBQ sauce only in the final 5 minutes to avoid burning the sugars. This helps it caramelize while keeping the chicken juicy.
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Choosing the Right Cut: Bone-in thighs are ideal for beginners since they have higher fat content, ensuring moist and flavorful results.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid undercooking or overcooking, check the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for 165°F for perfect doneness.
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Adjusting Seasoning: Feel free to tweak spices in the marinade to suit your taste. Experimenting can lead to a signature BBQ Grilled Chicken recipe that reflects your palate!
Storage Tips for BBQ Grilled Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover BBQ grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its juicy flavor and prevents any fridge odors from seeping in.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 3 months this way.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes to keep the chicken moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, but the oven will retain its crispy texture better.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for the best results. This keeps the BBQ flavors intact while ensuring even reheating.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which not only saves you time but also enriches the flavor. Simply rub the marinade under the skin and over the chicken, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, be sure to seal the container well to prevent any leaks. When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill and cook the chicken straight from the fridge for the best results. Just remember to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-enjoy BBQ Grilled Chicken recipe that tastes just as good as freshly made!
What to Serve with Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken
Picture a warm summer evening where mouthwatering aromas fill the air, and laughter surrounds the dinner table as you savor your delicious grilled chicken.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crisp, cool crunch of coleslaw balances the smoky flavors of the chicken, offering a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and slightly charred, corn adds a delightful pop of flavor and texture that complements the BBQ essence beautifully.
- Baked Beans: A hearty side dish, the sweetness of baked beans pairs perfectly with the tangy BBQ sauce, creating a harmony of flavors.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: Fresh and light, this salad brings a delightful crispness that brightens the meal—ideal for those warm summer nights.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted to perfection, this buttery addition soaks up the drippings from your chicken, making every bite even more satisfying.
- Watermelon Slices: Juicy and refreshing, watermelon is the perfect sweet finale to your cookout, cleansing the palate after every savory mouthful.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: Nothing beats a chilled glass of tea or lemonade to wash down your meal, keeping everyone cool and refreshed.
- Brownies: End on a sweet note! Rich, fudgy brownies add a decadent dessert option that everyone will adore after the savory delight of grilled chicken.
BBQ Grilled Chicken Variations
Feel free to make this BBQ Grilled Chicken recipe your own by adding unique twists that suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Use homemade or dairy-free BBQ sauce for a deliciously creamy alternative.
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Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper to the marinade for a bold heat that complements the smoky flavors beautifully. If you’re a fan of heat, this addition will give your chicken an exciting zing!
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the marinade for an aromatic flair that really elevates the dish. The fresh flavors will wrap around the grilled chicken like a warm hug.
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Sweet & Savory: Substitute honey for brown sugar to create a delightful balance of sweetness. The honey caramelizes beautifully on the grill, making each bite irresistible.
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Smoky Substitution: Swap out smoked paprika for chipotle powder for a spicy, smoky twist that adds depth to your BBQ chicken. You’ll enjoy the extra dimension it brings to every bite.
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Pork Perfection: This marinade works wonders with thick-cut pork chops as well! Switching proteins can introduce a new favorite to your grilling repertoire.
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Vegetarian Alternative: Try using hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or eggplant with the same marinade; grill them for a veggie treat that’s just as satisfying. It’s a great way to bring everyone together, regardless of dietary preferences.
Explore these variations and let your BBQ Grilled Chicken shine at your next summer gathering! And if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, consider making a side of Honey Lime Chicken or whip up a batch of flavorful Cheesy Chicken Garlic bites to go along with it. Happy grilling!
BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for grilling?
Absolutely! Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs as they provide the best tenderness and moisture during grilling. You can also use chicken drumsticks, which work just as well. Look for pieces that have a good amount of fat, as this will help keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
How should I store leftover BBQ grilled chicken?
Store leftover BBQ grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This helps maintain its delicious flavor and prevents it from drying out. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation inside the container.
Can I freeze BBQ grilled chicken?
Very! To freeze your BBQ grilled chicken, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Ensure to remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. It can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results, and reheat as mentioned.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly on the grill?
If you notice uneven cooking, it could be due to hot spots on the grill. Make sure to rotate the chicken occasionally while grilling and rearrange it on different parts of the grill. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure evenly cooked chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I serve this BBQ grilled chicken to my pet?
While it’s delicious for humans, you should avoid giving your dog BBQ chicken, especially if it contains sauce, as many BBQ sauces include ingredients that can be harmful to pets, like garlic and onion. Always consult with your veterinarian before sharing any human food with pets.
Is this BBQ grilled chicken recipe suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! This BBQ grilled chicken recipe is gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Many brands offer great gluten-free options. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients fit your dietary needs. Happy grilling!
BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe: Juicy, Flavor-Packed Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Rub the marinade generously under the skin and over the chicken thighs. Allow to marinate at room temperature for about 10 minutes or refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature of 375°F to 400°F. Oil the grill grates.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down onto the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes without moving them.
- Flip the chicken and grill for another 5-6 minutes.
- After the initial grilling, continue to flip the chicken every 5 minutes, cooking until done, about 25 minutes total.
- In the final 5 minutes of cooking, brush BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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