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Juicy Grilled BBQ Chicken

Irresistibly Juicy Grilled BBQ Chicken for Summer Feasts

Nothing beats the smoky goodness of grilled BBQ chicken—try this juicy chicken recipe for a crowd-pleasing summer dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Can substitute with vegetable oil
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt Use smaller amount if substituting table salt
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper Pre-ground can be used
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika Regular paprika can substitute but lacks smokiness
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used, adjust to taste
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup tomato-based BBQ sauce Homemade or store-bought works well
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Can be substituted with white vinegar or lemon juice

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Grill brush
  • Meat thermometer
  • mixing bowl
  • paper towels

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels to achieve crispy skin.
  2. Combine kosher salt, cracked black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a bowl, then rub over chicken thighs.
  3. Preheat your grill for two-zone cooking, setting one side to high heat for direct searing.
  4. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down on the hot side for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Flip the chicken and move to the cooler side for indirect heat cooking for about 25-30 minutes.
  7. Mix BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar, then brush over chicken once it reaches 155°F.
  8. Continue cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  9. Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1pieceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 280mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F. Letting it rest helps retain juiciness.

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