As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
When it comes to BBQ chicken, variety is key. You've got classic flavors, spicy twists, and even sweet glazes to explore. Whether you're firing up the grill for a summer party or a cozy dinner at home, these recipes offer something for everyone. Imagine the aroma filling the air as you cook. Curious about which dishes will become your new favorites? Let's plunge into these mouthwatering options.
Key Takeaways
- Try Classic BBQ Chicken Thighs for rich flavor, tender texture, and a crispy skin that enhances the BBQ experience.
- Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are perfect for marinating, grilling, and serving with a delicious sauce that keeps them juicy.
- For a unique twist, enjoy Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken, combining sweetness and savory flavors for a mouthwatering glaze.
- Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken offers a spicy kick with a blend of aromatic spices, ideal for adventurous palates.
- Teriyaki Glazed BBQ Chicken Skewers are customizable and easy to prepare, perfect for summer gatherings and family dinners.
Classic BBQ Chicken Thighs
When it comes to BBQ chicken, nothing beats the rich, smoky flavor of classic BBQ chicken thighs. This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect balance of tenderness and juiciness, complemented by a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce. Whether you're grilling in the backyard or baking in the oven, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Chicken thighs are an excellent choice for BBQ because they've more fat and connective tissue than chicken breasts, making them more forgiving and flavorful when cooked. The skin crisps up beautifully on the grill, while the meat stays moist and succulent. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a delicious meal that's perfect for gatherings or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
To start, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill is heating, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Rub this mixture generously over the chicken thighs, ensuring every piece is well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors infuse.
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grates. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden brown. Flip the chicken and brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the top.
Continue grilling for an additional 6-8 minutes, basting with more sauce as desired, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from the grill and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
For best results, always allow your chicken to rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and moist.
Consider experimenting with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor profile, and feel free to add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added touch before serving.
Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken
Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory flavors of garlic, creating a mouthwatering glaze that complements the juicy chicken perfectly. This recipe is easy to prepare and is ideal for summer barbecues or family dinners. The marinade not only adds flavor but also aids in tenderizing the chicken, making it incredibly juicy and succulent after grilling.
In addition to being delicious, Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or simply looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Just fire up the grill and get ready to savor the incredible flavors of this dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
To start, in a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, paprika, and salt until well combined. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it's evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grill grates.
Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with your favorite sides.
Extra Tips: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey according to your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade. Always verify to grill the chicken to the recommended internal temperature for safe consumption, and enjoy the delicious results!
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Wings
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Wings are the perfect blend of heat and flavor, making them an irresistible appetizer for your next gathering or game day. The smoky chipotle peppers add a depth of flavor that elevates traditional BBQ wings to a whole new level. With the right balance of spices and a tangy sauce, these wings are bound to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
Cooking these wings is straightforward and can be done in the oven or on the grill, allowing for flexibility based on your preference. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Once cooked, the wings can be tossed in additional sauce for an extra kick, making them even more delicious.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
To prepare the wings, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preparing your grill for medium-high heat. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and minced chipotle peppers.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until well-coated. If you have time, let the wings marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
For oven cooking, arrange the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're crispy and golden brown. If grilling, place the wings over direct heat and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the wings with BBQ sauce and allow it to caramelize slightly. Once done, remove the wings from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
When cooking Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Wings, consider using a meat thermometer to verify they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on your heat preference.
Serve the wings with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy the deliciously spicy kick!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts are a delightful and revitalizing dish that can transform your ordinary barbecue into a gourmet experience. The zesty lemon and fragrant herbs infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors, making it not only a healthy choice but also a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner.
Grilling chicken breasts can sometimes lead to dry meat, but with the right marinade and cooking technique, you can achieve juicy and tender results. Marinating the chicken for at least an hour, or even overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate deeply while also keeping the meat moist during cooking. Pair this dish with a light salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
To prepare the Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts, begin by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for more intense flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
For best results, make sure that your grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to avoid burning.
Additionally, let the chicken rest after grilling; this allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or basil, to personalize the flavor to your preference!
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The marinade, made from simple ingredients, infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist and tender during cooking. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, these drumsticks are sure to please everyone at the table.
To achieve the best results, marinate the chicken for at least an hour, but for ideal flavor, consider letting it sit overnight. This allows the spices and sauces to penetrate deeply, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat. Whether grilled or baked, these drumsticks will have your guests coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
To begin, preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Reserve about 1/4 cup of the marinade for basting later. Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Allow the drumsticks to marinate for at least an hour, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
If grilling, place the marinated drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade. Confirm the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
If baking, arrange the drumsticks on a lined baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes, again basting with the reserved marinade halfway through.
For best results, be sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This will help the juices redistribute, making each bite even more succulent. Additionally, if you're looking for a little extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy twist. Enjoy your sweet and tangy BBQ chicken drumsticks!
Teriyaki Glazed BBQ Chicken Skewers
Teriyaki Glazed BBQ Chicken Skewers are a delightful twist on the classic barbecue chicken. These skewers are marinated in a savory and slightly sweet teriyaki sauce, making them perfect for summer cookouts or family dinners. The grilling process enhances the flavors, producing tender, juicy chicken with a tantalizing glaze that will impress your guests.
Preparing these skewers is simple and can be customized to your taste. You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or pineapple to the skewers for extra flavor and color. Whether you're grilling in the backyard or cooking on a stovetop grill, these Teriyaki Glazed BBQ Chicken Skewers are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
- Green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Mix well to create a marinade. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Brush with additional teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
For the best results, consider marinating the chicken for a longer period, up to 2 hours, to enhance the flavor. If you're using wooden skewers, soaking them is essential to prevent charring.
Feel free to experiment with various vegetables on the skewers, such as zucchini or cherry tomatoes, for a colorful and flavorful addition. Additionally, serving these skewers with a side of rice or a fresh salad can create a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your grilling!
Smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza
Smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delightful twist on traditional pizza that brings together the mouthwatering flavors of smoky barbecue sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this pizza is certain to impress everyone at the table.
With a crispy crust and a medley of toppings, each slice offers a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more. This recipe isn't only easy to make, but it also allows for customization based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, add vegetables like red onions or bell peppers, or even substitute the chicken with pulled pork or beef. No matter how you make it, this Smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza is destined to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup smoky barbecue sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil for brushing
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out the pre-made pizza crust on a floured surface to your desired thickness and shape. Transfer the crust to a baking sheet or pizza stone.
In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the smoky barbecue sauce, guaranteeing the chicken is well-coated. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top, followed by the sliced red onions.
Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Before slicing, sprinkle with chopped cilantro for an added burst of freshness, if desired.
Extra Tips:
For a crispy crust, consider pre-baking the pizza crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings. This guarantees that the bottom stays firm and doesn't get soggy from the sauce and toppings.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste preference; more sauce can enhance the smoky flavor, while less can keep the pizza lighter. Enjoy your homemade Smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza!
Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken
Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that captures the essence of Caribbean cuisine. The jerk seasoning, which includes a blend of herbs and spices, infuses the chicken with a delightful kick, making it a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a taste of the tropics.
To achieve the best results, marinate the chicken in the jerk seasoning for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, ensuring each bite is bursting with the vibrant tastes of traditional Jamaican spices. Serve your jerk chicken with sides like rice and peas or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that will transport your taste buds to a sunny island paradise.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1-2 Scotch bonnet peppers (seeded and chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine all the spices, chopped green onions, Scotch bonnet peppers, minced garlic, ginger, soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the jerk marinade. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Add the chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill the chicken pieces for about 30-35 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're cooked through and have a nice charred appearance. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). For extra flavor, brush the chicken with any leftover marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
Extra Tips:
When preparing Jamaican Jerk BBQ Chicken, be cautious with the Scotch bonnet peppers, as they're quite spicy. Adjust the number of peppers based on your heat preference.
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can remove the seeds or use less spicy peppers. Additionally, consider pairing the chicken with a cooling side, like a mango salsa or a simple cucumber salad, to balance the heat and enhance the overall dining experience. Enjoy your taste of the Caribbean!
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Thighs
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Thighs are a deliciously sticky and savory dish that brings an exciting twist to your typical barbecue fare. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard creates a delightful glaze that perfectly complements the juicy chicken thighs. This dish isn't only easy to prepare but also perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners, promising to impress family and friends alike.
To make this dish, you don't need to be a master chef; just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time will result in a mouthwatering meal. Pair these thighs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or cornbread, and watch them disappear from the dinner table. Let's plunge into the ingredients and cooking instructions!
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're well coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for added flavor.
Once marinated, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking, then place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill.
Cook for about 7-8 minutes before flipping, then brush with more marinade. Continue grilling for another 7-8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
Extra Tips:
For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Additionally, if you prefer a smoky flavor, you can add wood chips to your grill for a few minutes while cooking. Always keep an eye on the chicken to avoid burning the marinade, as it contains sugar which can caramelize quickly. Enjoy your Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Thighs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Side Dishes Pair Best With BBQ Chicken?
When you're enjoying BBQ chicken, consider classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or grilled vegetables. These flavors complement the smoky goodness, enhancing your meal while adding texture and invigorating contrast to the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken?
To store leftover BBQ chicken, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs! For instance, if you marinate chicken breasts in a tangy sauce, you'll still achieve a flavorful dish that everyone enjoys. Just adjust cooking times for tenderness.
What Is the Best Way to Reheat BBQ Chicken?
To reheat BBQ chicken, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F. Cover it with foil to retain moisture, and heat for about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, use a microwave for quicker results, but it might dry out.
How Do I Know When My Chicken Is Fully Cooked?
Juicy chicken glistens while dry, overcooked pieces become unappealing. To know it's fully cooked, you'll want to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. Juicy and tender— that's how chicken should feel!
