BBQ chicken recipe for every outdoor get-together, family meal, or simply when you’re craving juicy, succulent, and smoky chicken, is barbecued chicken. Everyone will want seconds of this recipe’s flawless harmony of salty, tart, and sweet flavors. This recipe for BBQ chicken is simple to follow and can be prepared on a stovetop, grill, or oven.
Ingredients:
- 4 large chicken thighs and drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on for best flavor)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For homemade BBQ sauce:
- ½ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Ultimate Guide to Making BBQ Chicken
1. Prepare the chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub the spices in evenly.
2. Make the BBQ sauce (if homemade):
- In a saucepan, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Set aside.
3. Cook the chicken:
Grill Method:
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes.
- Brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce and cook for another 5-7 minutes per side, basting frequently, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, brush with BBQ sauce, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, basting halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Sear the chicken skin-side down for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for another 5-6 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce every few minutes, until fully cooked.
4. Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
- Pair with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, grilled vegetables, or potato salad for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken:
- For extra smoky flavor, add wood chips to your grill.
- Avoid burning the BBQ sauce by brushing it on during the last stages of cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly.
This BBQ chicken recipe brings the taste of summer to your table any time of the year. Its rich, smoky flavors and juicy texture make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress.
