Grilled BBQ Chicken

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 gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The homemade BBQ marinade infuses the chicken with rich flavors that are hard to resist.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this grilled chicken fits right in.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and lower in carbs, it’s a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the marinade ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Grilled BBQ Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure your chicken turns out perfectly grilled every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Large shallow dish
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill allows for even cooking and adds that delicious char flavor.
• Large shallow dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for the marinade.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures 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 have a smooth paste. Add the chicken thighs and toss well so they’re all coated. Allow them to marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Prepare your grill for cooking over direct heat. Create an area of indirect heat on one side. This setup will help cook the chicken thoroughly without burning.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Working in batches if needed, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook until browned and caramelized on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This typically takes about 15 minutes per batch. If any pieces are not cooked through but are browning too quickly, move them to the cooler side of the grill while continuing to cook others.

Enjoy your Grilled BBQ Chicken with your favorite sides!

How to Serve Grilled BBQ Chicken

Grilled BBQ Chicken is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or having a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Pair with Classic Sides

• Coleslaw: A crunchy and creamy coleslaw adds freshness and balances the smoky flavors of the chicken.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn brushed with butter complements the savory taste of BBQ chicken beautifully.

Add Some Spice

• Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side to drizzle over the chicken.
• Pickles: Tangy pickles offer a nice contrast to the sweet barbecue glaze and enhance overall flavor.

Create a Meal

• Sandwiches: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it in a sandwich with lettuce and tomato for a hearty lunch option.
• Salads: Combine chopped grilled BBQ chicken with mixed greens, avocado, and your choice of dressing for a satisfying salad.

How to Perfect Grilled BBQ Chicken

Perfecting Grilled BBQ Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some top tips to ensure your chicken turns out amazing every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances its flavor. The longer it sits, the better it absorbs the marinade.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before adding the chicken promotes even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Use Indirect Heat: To avoid burning, cook over direct heat initially, then move to indirect heat if necessary until fully cooked.
• Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let your chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps retain juices for extra tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled BBQ Chicken

Grilled BBQ Chicken pairs well with many side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Baked Beans: A classic side dish that adds sweetness and depth. You can make them from scratch or use canned beans for convenience.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad complements grilled meats perfectly, adding texture and richness to your meal.
3. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover barbecue sauce on your plate.
4. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers with bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are not only tasty but also add visual appeal to your table.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy comfort food is always a hit at barbecues and pairs wonderfully with grilled flavors.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad provides a light crunch that balances richer dishes like BBQ chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled BBQ Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Marinating Step: Failing to marinate can lead to bland chicken. Always allow your chicken to marinate for at least an hour for maximum flavor.
• Not Preheating the Grill: Cooking on a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to preheat your grill before adding the chicken for a nice sear.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken at once can lower the grill temperature. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Not checking the chicken’s internal temperature can lead to undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165F for safe consumption.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Trying to cook chicken too quickly can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Grilled BBQ Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure that it’s completely cooled before sealing the container.

Freezing Grilled BBQ Chicken

• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled BBQ Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I marinate Grilled BBQ Chicken?

Marinating for at least one hour is ideal, but overnight enhances flavor even more.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While thighs are juicy and flavorful, you can also use breasts or drumsticks with similar results.

What sides pair well with Grilled BBQ Chicken?

Corn on the cob, coleslaw, or baked beans are great accompaniments that balance out the barbecue flavors.

How do I know when my Grilled BBQ Chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165F at its thickest part. This ensures it’s safe to eat without being overcooked.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, store-bought sauces are convenient! Just remember they may vary in sweetness and tanginess compared to homemade versions.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe offers mouthwatering flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings, and its versatility allows you to customize it with different marinades or side dishes. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Grilled BBQ Chicken

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Discover the mouthwatering delight of Grilled BBQ Chicken, a quintessential dish that will elevate your summer gatherings and weeknight dinners. This recipe features succulent chicken thighs marinated in a smoky, tangy homemade BBQ sauce that promises to infuse every bite with rich flavors. Ideal for family cookouts or cozy dinners at home, this grilled chicken is not only delicious but also healthy, packed with protein and low in carbs. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Get ready to fire up the grill!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large dish, whisk together tomato paste, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, sweet smoked paprika, and salt until smooth. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Marinate for at least one hour or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the Grill: Set up your grill for direct heat cooking while ensuring indirect heat is available.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place marinated chicken on the grill; cook until browned and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (approximately 15 minutes per batch). Use indirect heat if needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 270
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg