What’s not to like about the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor of perfectly balanced fruit?What is grilled bbq. It’s a summertime staple, and family favorite. And honestly, it just screams “good times!” Remember those backyard barbecues as a kid, the smell of charcoal in the air, and the sticky sticky sand? What happens to your fingers after you eat a drumstick? What are some good ways to recreate the joy of childhood, but with a few simple tricks to guarantee juicy, flavorful. Is it possible to eat chicken every single time If you love the ease of a classic baked chicken but crave that smoky, grilled goodness, then buckle up. Up – this is about to become your go-to!
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What is a grilled chicken?
Okay, so What is grilled bbqWhat is essentially chicken that’s been slathered in barbecue sauce and cooked over an open flame? What is the quintessential summer meal? What’s essentially taking tender pieces of chicken, marinating them in a flavorful sauce, and then serving them up. What is the best way to grill a charred ham and smoky flavor? What is the kind of dish that brings people together, sparks conversation, and leaves everyone wanting more. It’s simplicity at its finest, elevated by the magic of the grill. What is that flavor memory that takes you back to summer even if it’s the middle of winter?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Is this recipe just good? Why do you become obsessed with something?
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors is simply irresistible. It’s a party in your mouth! I use a homemade bbq sauce with brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne for kick, giving it that sweet and smoky flavor that everyone loves.
- Is it really easyForget complicated recipes with a million steps. What’s a good meal to make for tuesday dinner? What is the hardest part of marinating chicken? Is it possible to cook a recipe in the morning and throw it on the grill later? How can I make my life stress free?
- Budget FriendlyChicken is a relatively inexpensive protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. How do I feed a crowd without breaking the bank? I’m all about making delicious meals that don’t cost a fortune, and this one definitely fits the bill. What’s your favorite way to use leftovers in a salad?
- Super Versatile:What are some good side dishes to serve with corn on the cob, potato salad, coleslaw, you name it! Is it good on its own with a salad? What I love about this recipe is the versatility. Can you use different cuts of chicken, experiment with different barbecue sauces, and pair it with a side of pork? Is it good for meal prep?
I know there are tons of people out there who are really good at it. IWhat is grilled bbqWhat are some of the best recipes out there? What is the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Think of it as your new go-to summer cookouts and easy weeknight dinners. What are some of the best grilling recipes? What is your secret homemade sauce? What is your favorite bbq chicken recipe?
How do I make grilled chicken?
Quick Overview
Let’s get down to business!What is grilled bbqHow do you marinate chicken in a bbq sauce? ), then grill it until it’s cooked through and beautifully charred. The marinade tenderizes the chicken, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful, while the grilling. How do you add a smoky flavor? Is it so easy to cook? What is it like to slave over the grill
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2-3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts). I like using a mix of cuts for variety, but feel free to use your favorites. Bone-in chicken tends to stay juicier on the grill, but boneless, skinless breasts will work in a pinch (just watch them carefully to avoid overcooking).
What is the recipe for BBQ sauce?
- What’s the best ketchup flavor?
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar. This adds a tangy kick to chicken.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar. Light or dark brown will work; do not over-sweeten. Dark brown sugar will give it a richer molasses flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. This adds a savory umami depth.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika. This is crucial for that smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular pistachios. The flavor will be different but you’ll be able to get a nice smoky taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat). I like a little kick, but feel free to omit if you’re not into spice.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Make the BBQ Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together all the BBQ sauce ingredients until well combined. What are some creative ways to use seasonings? If you like a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. If it’s tangier, put more vinegar. What is the beauty of homemade sauce?
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. What is the best way to serve BBQ sauce over chicken? Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably several hours. (or even overnight! The longer the chicken marinates, the more tender it will be. I usually marinate it overnight, but even 30 minutes makes a difference.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. I always give my grates a good scrub with my grill brush before preheating, and then lightly oil them. With a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil. How do you prevent chicken from sticking to your hands?
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess sauce drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the skin is nicely charred and the chicken is cooked through. Flip the chicken occasionally and continue grilling, basting with the remaining BBQ sauce during the cooking time. Last 10-15 minutes of cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. I always insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone.
Step 5: Let it Rest
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, this step is worth it!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the What is grilled bbqWhat are your favorite side dishes? Corn on the cob, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, and watermelon are all good choices. What’s your favorite BBQ sauce? I like to throw corn on the grill with chicken. It’s the perfect summer combo.
What to Serve It With
Okay, so you’ve got this amazing grilled bbq chicken ready to go. Now what? Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:
- Classic Cookout: Corn on the cob, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, watermelon – the whole shebang! This is the quintessential summer meal, and it’s always a hit. Don’t forget a pitcher of ice-cold lemonade!
- Light and Fresh: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing and some grilled vegetables. This is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter meal. I love grilling asparagus, bell peppers, and zucchini alongside the chicken.
- Sandwich Time: Shred the chicken and pile it onto toasted buns with coleslaw and extra BBQ sauce. This is a fantastic way to use up leftovers (if there are any!). I like to add a little bit of pickled red onion for extra tang.
- Taco Night: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos with all your favorite toppings. This is a fun and easy way to change things up. I usually serve it with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa.
- Pizza Topping: Dice the chicken and use it as a topping for homemade or store-bought pizza. This is a creative and delicious way to use up leftovers. I like to add some red onion, cilantro, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
My family always makes this with a large helping of macaroni and cheese. Also, be sure to add mashed potatoes, for a great side dish. The options are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations. It’s also great served with simple grilled veggies.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Grilled BBQ Chicken
Want to take your grilled bbq chicken to the next level? Here are some of my top tips:
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Marinating the chicken is crucial for both flavor and tenderness. The longer the chicken marinates, the better. I aim for at least 30 minutes, but several hours (or even overnight) is ideal. I’ve even marinated it for 24 hours before and it was the juiciest it has ever been.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through without overcooking it. Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. I always insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding the bone.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Overcrowding the grill will lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of grill. Work in batches if necessary. I’ve made that mistake before and it’s not a good look.
- Baste with BBQ Sauce: Basting the chicken with BBQ sauce during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking will add flavor and help create that beautiful caramelized crust. Be careful not to baste too early, or the sauce may burn. This step is KEY for getting that classic BBQ chicken look.
- Let It Rest: Letting the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Don’t skip this step!
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your BBQ sauce. Add different spices, herbs, or even a splash of your favorite liquor. The possibilities are endless! I once added a splash of bourbon to my BBQ sauce and it was a game-changer.
- Indirect Heat: If you’re using bone-in, skin-on chicken, you can start by grilling it over indirect heat to cook it through, and then move it over direct heat to char the skin. This will help prevent the skin from burning before the chicken is cooked through.
One of the biggest mistakes I used to make was not using a meat thermometer. I thought I could just tell when the chicken was done by looking at it, but I was wrong! A meat thermometer is a lifesaver. Also, be careful not to overcook the chicken, it is very common to do. Be careful and avoid burning.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat your grilled bbq chicken:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I always make sure the chicken is completely cool before storing it.
- Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: You can reheat the chicken in the microwave, oven, or grill. For the microwave, heat it in short intervals until warmed through. For the oven, preheat to 350°F and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For the grill, grill it over low heat for a few minutes per side, or until warmed through. I prefer reheating in the oven or on the grill, as it helps to retain the flavor and texture.
- Glaze timing advice: If you haven’t already, add another coating of bbq sauce right after you reheat it for the best taste and experience.
If you’re planning to make this recipe ahead of time, I recommend making the BBQ sauce and marinating the chicken, but waiting to grill it until you’re ready to serve it. You can also grill the chicken ahead of time and then reheat it when you’re ready to eat, but it will be slightly drier. One time, I made a large batch of this for a party and froze half of it. It was a lifesaver when I needed a quick and easy meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my ultimate recipe for grilled bbq chicken! This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s so easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of juicy, tender chicken and smoky, sweet, tangy barbecue sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other grilling recipes! And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your grilled bbq chicken turned out. I can’t wait to hear your feedback! Happy grilling!
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pounds Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub mixture all over chicken thighs.
- Place chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Brush chicken with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
