Description
Grilling BBQ Chicken like a pro is all about juicy meat, crispy skin, and smoky, caramelized sauce. This foolproof recipe walks you through every step to achieve that perfect backyard BBQ flavor — tender inside, charred outside, and bursting with sweet-savory goodness.
Ingredients
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F/190°C). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper all over the chicken.
3. Place chicken on the grill skin-side down. Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until browned.
4. Move chicken to indirect heat, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce on the chicken and cook over direct heat for 2–3 minutes per side, allowing the sauce to caramelize.
6. Repeat for a second glaze if desired, then remove from the grill.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
Notes
Use bone-in, skin-on chicken for maximum juiciness and flavor.
Don’t rush the caramelization — patience creates that perfect sticky glaze.
Mix sweet and smoky BBQ sauce for a balanced flavor.
Add a dash of apple cider vinegar to your sauce for extra tang.
Perfect sides: grilled corn, coleslaw, or baked beans!
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken piece with sauce
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg