BBQ Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ Chicken is a classic favorite known for its smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or family gatherings, this dish delivers juicy chicken with a caramelized glaze that’s irresistibly delicious. Whether grilled, baked, or slow-cooked, BBQ Chicken is easy to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts)BBQ sauceolive oilsaltblack peppergarlic powderonion powderpaprika (smoked or sweet)brown sugarapple cider vinegar (optional for extra tang)

directions

Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Brush the chicken lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Grill or bake the chicken, turning occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and develops a nice char, about 25-30 minutes.

During the last 10 minutes of cooking, generously brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, turning and basting frequently to build up a sticky, caramelized coating.

If using an oven, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end to achieve a charred finish.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesResting time: 5 minutesTotal time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Use different BBQ sauces like honey BBQ, spicy chipotle, or Carolina mustard for flavor twists.

Marinate the chicken overnight in BBQ sauce for deeper flavor.

Add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Cook the chicken in a slow cooker and finish it on the grill for tenderness and smokiness.

Top the chicken with pineapple slices during the last few minutes of grilling for a tropical flair.

storage/reheating

Store leftover BBQ Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in a microwave, oven, or covered skillet to maintain moisture.To freeze, wrap individual pieces tightly and store for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for BBQ Chicken?

Bone-in, skin-on pieces like thighs and drumsticks retain moisture best and develop great flavor.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely, though making your own can give you more control over sweetness and spice.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook it over moderate heat and avoid overcooking. Basting with BBQ sauce also helps retain moisture.

Can I bake BBQ Chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, baking at 400°F and finishing under the broiler will give similar results.

How do I get a smoky flavor without a grill?

Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke in your seasoning.

What sides go well with BBQ Chicken?

Coleslaw, baked beans, corn on the cob, and potato salad are all great choices.

Can I make BBQ Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can grill it ahead and reheat it gently, brushing with extra sauce as needed.

How spicy is BBQ Chicken?

It depends on the sauce and seasoning you use; you can easily adjust the spice level.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Yes, but boneless cuts cook faster and may need less time on the grill or in the oven.

Should I remove the chicken skin?

Keeping the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor, but you can remove it if preferred.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken is a timeless dish that brings bold flavors and juicy tenderness to your table. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or baking indoors, it’s easy to customize and even easier to enjoy. Try it for your next meal or party, and watch it disappear in no time!

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