BBQ Chicken is a timeless favorite, combining tender, juicy meat with a smoky, tangy glaze. Whether you’re firing up the grill, using your oven, or opting for an air fryer, this dish delivers mouthwatering results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile Cooking Methods: Suitable for grilling, baking, or air frying.
- Flavorful Marinade: A blend of spices and sauces infuses the chicken with rich taste.
- Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s easy to scale up for parties.
- Customizable Heat Levels: Adjust the spice to suit your preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken.
- Cooking Methods:
- Grilling:
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Place chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Brush BBQ sauce on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Oven-Baking:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Brush BBQ sauce on the chicken, flip, and brush the other side. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Air Frying:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place chicken in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Brush with BBQ sauce, flip, and brush the other side. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grilling:
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
Variations
- Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for extra heat.
- Honey BBQ Chicken: Mix honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze.
- Herb-Infused: Add chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but adjust cooking times as boneless pieces cook faster.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Use your favorite store-bought brand or make a homemade version to control sweetness and spice levels.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature doesn’t exceed 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With various cooking methods and customizable flavors, it’s a recipe that can be tailored to suit any palate.
Description
BBQ Chicken is a classic grilled dish featuring tender chicken pieces slathered in smoky, sweet, and tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for summer cookouts and weeknight dinners alike.
- Preheat grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 5–10 minutes of cooking, brush chicken generously with barbecue sauce on all sides. Let the sauce caramelize slightly.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving with extra sauce on the side.
Notes
- Use indirect heat for larger cuts to avoid burning the sauce.
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs can be used for quicker cooking time.
- Pair with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans for a classic BBQ meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 110mg