Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 41 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

BBQ Chicken Thighs are juicy, smoky, and caramelized with a sweet and tangy barbecue glaze. Perfectly grilled to achieve a flavorful, tender texture, these chicken thighs make an easy and delicious summer dinner paired beautifully with sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 lbs (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce & Oil

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweeter glaze)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better caramelization on the grill.
  2. Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavor-packed rub.
  3. Season the Chicken: Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  4. Rest the Chicken: Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  5. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat, preparing it for cooking the chicken.
  6. Oil the Chicken: Lightly brush the chicken thighs with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote a nicely seared surface.
  7. Grill First Side: Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes without moving them, allowing grill marks to form.
  8. Flip and Cook Second Side: Turn the chicken thighs over and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes.
  9. Apply BBQ Sauce: During the last 2 to 3 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce. Turn the chicken and brush the other side as well, letting the sauce caramelize without burning.
  10. Check Temperature: Continue cooking until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked through.
  11. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute for moist, tender meat.
  12. Serve: Serve the BBQ chicken thighs hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired, accompanied by grilled corn, coleslaw, potato salad, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Avoid adding BBQ sauce too early during grilling because the sugars can burn and create a bitter taste.
  • Chicken thighs are more forgiving on the grill than breasts, staying juicy and tender even if slightly overcooked.
  • Add honey to the BBQ sauce mixture for a sweeter, more caramelized glaze.
  • Pair with sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, potato salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete summer meal.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course, BBQ
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/bbq-chicken-thighs-recipe/