BBQ Chicken on the Grill is a tasty summer favorite! The chicken gets juicy and smoky, all while soaking up that delicious barbecue sauce. Yum!
I love hearing that sizzle when it hits the grill. It always brings friends together for fun backyard cookouts. Grab some sides, and you’re all set for a great meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: Bone-in, skin-on pieces are ideal for grilling. They stay juicy and have great flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken can be used, but they might dry out more easily.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use store-bought for convenience, but homemade sauce can elevate the flavors. If you’re short on time, a mix of ketchup, vinegar, and a little honey works well. Vegan alternatives are also available to suit different diets.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These spices are essential for flavor. If you’re fresh out, minced fresh garlic and finely chopped onions can do the trick. Adjust the amounts based on your taste preference.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a lovely smokiness. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper can work, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Use less cayenne as it’s spicier!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it every time. Here are the key steps:
- Marinate Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour infuses it with flavor. Longer is even better, so consider marinating overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Getting your grill to the right temperature is vital. Aim for medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C) for crispy skin and juicy meat.
- Oil the Grate: To prevent sticking, brush the grill grates with oil before adding the chicken. A grill brush can help here.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking for about 15-20 minutes per side is a good rule. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t Skip Resting: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a tender bite.
How to Make BBQ Chicken on the Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 4 chicken drumsticks
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (up to overnight if you want more flavor). Plan on about 30-40 minutes for grilling. So overall, set aside a couple of hours to make the most delicious BBQ chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, pour in the olive oil and add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This will be your flavor-packed marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add the chicken thighs and drumsticks into the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to coat each piece of chicken thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you can, let it rest overnight to soak up all the yummy flavors!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 375°F (190°C). To keep your chicken from sticking, brush the grill grates with a bit of oil.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Place the chicken pieces on the grill. Let them cook for about 15-20 minutes on one side. Then, carefully flip them over and grill for another 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and nice, crispy skin!
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
In the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with your barbecue sauce. Turn the pieces occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t burn. This will add a delicious glaze!
6. Rest & Serve:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! If you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a bit of color, then serve hot with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your yummy BBQ chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Instead of Bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts! Just reduce the grilling time to about 8-10 minutes per side, as boneless cuts cook faster. Ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices Listed?
No worries! You can adjust the seasoning based on what you have on hand. For example, if you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a dash of cayenne can add flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices!
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Prepare The Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken right before grilling, or marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. This makes dinner prep a breeze!
