Learn how to make the best Grilled BBQ Chicken! This classic chicken recipe combines juicy, char-grilled chicken with a smoky, tangy homemade BBQ marinade, guaranteeing absolutely delicious barbecue chicken every single time! Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this grilled BBQ chicken will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this flavorful dish effortlessly.
- Bold Flavors: The unique homemade BBQ marinade infuses the chicken with mouthwatering taste that elevates any meal.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as the main dish or slice it up for salads, sandwiches, or tacos—the possibilities are endless!
- Perfectly Juicy Chicken: The marinade ensures that every bite is tender and moist, making it hard to resist going back for seconds.
- Quick Cooking Time: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish—ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your culinary adventure, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Large shallow dish
- Whisk
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: A good grill is essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor on your grilled BBQ chicken.
- Large shallow dish: This allows ample space for marinating the chicken evenly.
- Whisk: An effective tool for combining marinade ingredients without lumps.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures that your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- Combine all the marinade ingredients in a large, shallow dish.
- Whisk until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Add the chicken thighs and toss well to coat them evenly.
- Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
- Prepare your grill by setting it up for cooking over direct heat while leaving an area for indirect heat on one side.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- If your grill is small, work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the chicken thighs until they are browned and caramelized on each side.
- Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F; this should take about 15 minutes per batch.
- If needed, move pieces to the cooler area of the grill while continuing to cook others to prevent burning.
Enjoy your deliciously grilled BBQ chicken at your next meal!
How to Serve Grilled BBQ Chicken
Grilled BBQ Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will elevate your meal.
Pairing with Classic Sides
- Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based slaw adds crunch and balances the smokiness of the chicken.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter complements the flavors of BBQ chicken perfectly.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans bring a hearty touch to your barbecue spread.
Adding Sauces and Toppings
- Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve with additional homemade or store-bought BBQ sauce for those who love extra flavor.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of grilled chicken.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
How to Perfect Grilled BBQ Chicken
To achieve perfectly grilled BBQ chicken, consider these tips for juicy and flavorful results.
- Bold Marinade: Letting the chicken marinate overnight allows flavors to penetrate deeply, enhancing taste.
- Preheat the Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it; this helps create a nice sear.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Grill in batches if necessary to prevent steaming, which can result in less flavorful chicken.
- Use Indirect Heat: If the chicken starts to char too quickly, move it to an indirect heat area until fully cooked.
Best Side Dishes for Grilled BBQ Chicken
Grilled BBQ Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience best enjoyed with delightful side dishes. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad adds comfort and pairs beautifully with barbecue.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover BBQ sauce.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy classic is always a crowd-pleaser alongside grilled chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring color and nutrition to your plate.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf offers a light base that balances the heaviness of the meat.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan adds freshness and crunch to every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Grilling BBQ chicken can be simple, but many people make common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for perfect grilled BBQ chicken every time.
- Skipping the marinade: Not marinating your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak up the marinade for at least an hour, or even better, overnight.
- Cooking on too high heat: Using excessive heat can char the outside of your chicken while leaving it undercooked inside. Aim for medium heat and use indirect heat as needed.
- Flipping too often: Constantly flipping the chicken prevents proper browning and caramelization. Flip the chicken only once or twice during cooking for best results.
- Not checking internal temperature: Failing to monitor the internal temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165F.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into your chicken right after grilling releases juices and dries it out. Let your grilled BBQ chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover grilled BBQ chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing the container.
Freezing Grilled BBQ Chicken
- Wrap grilled BBQ chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Frozen grilled BBQ chicken is best used within 3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Grilled BBQ Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts of 1 minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add the chicken. Cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grilled BBQ Chicken?
Grilled BBQ chicken is a delicious dish made from marinated chicken thighs cooked on a grill. The marinade typically includes ingredients like tomato paste, brown sugar, and spices, giving it a smoky flavor.
Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?
Yes! While thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can also use drumsticks or breasts. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.
How do I make my grilled BBQ chicken spicier?
To add heat, include cayenne pepper or hot sauce in the marinade. You can also serve with spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
How long should I marinate Grilled BBQ Chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate your grilled BBQ chicken for at least an hour but overnight is best if you have time.
Can I grill frozen chicken?
It’s not recommended to grill frozen chicken directly as it may cook unevenly. Always thaw your grilled BBQ chicken in the refrigerator before grilling.
Final Thoughts
Grilled BBQ chicken is an all-time favorite that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family dinner or backyard barbecue. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or sauces to make this dish uniquely yours! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Indulge in the mouthwatering delight of Grilled BBQ Chicken, the star dish for any cookout or family gathering. This recipe features juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a homemade BBQ sauce that strikes the perfect balance between smoky and tangy. With minimal prep time and a quick cooking process, you’ll have a flavorful main dish ready in just 25 minutes. Whether served as is or sliced for sandwiches and salads, this grilled chicken will elevate your meal and impress your guests. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners alike!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 lb skinless boneless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large shallow dish, combine tomato paste, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour (overnight recommended).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat with an area designated for indirect cooking.
- Place marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes per side until browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (85g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg