Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

There’s something truly special about perfectly grilled BBQ chicken thighs. They come off the grill with a beautiful, caramelized char. The aroma alone makes your mouth water. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of tender, juicy meat beneath a sweet and smoky glaze.

I love making these for casual family dinners. Everyone always asks for seconds! They’re also fantastic for meal prep. Just pack them for lunches or dinners throughout the week. They truly are a crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

This recipe is a true weeknight hero. It’s wonderfully simple to whip up. The flavor is just incredible. Plus, it’s super versatile!

• Quick Preparation: Marinate and grill in under an hour.
• Bold Flavor: Smoky, sweet, and tangy perfection.
• Crowd Pleaser: Kids and adults adore thesegrilled BBQ chicken thighs.
• Easy Cleanup: Minimal dishes are always a bonus.

Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs Ingredients

The magic of these grilled BBQ chicken thighs truly comes from a simple yet perfect harmony of ingredients. Together, they create that irresistible sticky glaze and tender, flavorful chicken we all love. The secret is in the blend!

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Thighs: Whether bone-in, skin-on for maximum juiciness, or boneless, skinless for quicker cooking, they are the star. They stay wonderfully moist on the grill.
• Olive Oil: Just a touch helps the spices stick and prevents the chicken from searing too quickly.
• Spice Blend (Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper): This simple mix builds a fantastic flavor base before the sauce even hits the grill. Smoked paprika adds a lovely depth.
• Your Favorite BBQ Sauce: This is where you can really personalize your chicken! Use a sweet, smoky, or even spicy sauce. It’s the finishing touch that makes these grilled BBQ chicken thighs so delicious.

Substitutions and Tips

Don’t have smoked paprika? Regular paprika works fine! A little chili powder can add a nice kick. If you don’t have a favorite BBQ sauce, feel free to make your own. For a healthier twist, look for lower-sugar varieties. Remember, all the exact measurements are waiting for you in the printable recipe card below. This ensures your grilled BBQ chicken thighs turn out just right every time!

How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by getting your chicken ready. Pat the chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. This step is key. It helps the spices and oil stick better. It also ensures a nicer sear on the grill.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Next, mix your spices. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika. Add the garlic powder too. Then, mix in the onion powder. Don’t forget salt and black pepper. You want a nice, even blend here.

Now, rub the chicken all over with olive oil. Make sure every piece is coated lightly. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture generously over the chicken. Ensure they are well coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

It’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium heat. You’re aiming for about 350-400°F. That’s 175-200°C. Lightly oil the grill grates. This prevents sticking. Clean grates mean easier cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Thighs

Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the hot grill. If using skin-on, start skin-side down. Grill for about 7 to 10 minutes. You want to see nice browning. Flip them carefully. Grill the other side for another 7 to 10 minutes. Turn them occasionally. This ensures even cooking.

Step 5: Baste with BBQ Sauce

Now for the best part! During the last 10 to 15 minutes of cooking, it’s time to glaze. Baste the chicken thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce. Flip and baste often. This builds up wonderful layers of sticky sauce. Continue grilling. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is safely cooked through.

If you are using skin-on thighs, cook them mostly skin-side down first. Render that fat nicely. Then, flip to apply the glaze. This makes the skin wonderfully crispy.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Let the grilled BBQ chicken thighs rest for about 5 minutes. This little rest is important. It allows the juices to redistribute. Then, serve them up and enjoy!

How to Store Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

Leftover grilled BBQ chicken thighs store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days this way. For longer storage, consider freezing. Wrap cooled chicken tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Tips for Success

Tips for Success

• Pat it Dry: Always pat your chicken thighs completely dry. This is key for a great sear.
• Don’t Crowd the Grill: Give your chicken space. Overcrowding lowers the grill temp.
• Baste Smartly: Apply BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking. It prevents burning.
• Use a Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety. It guarantees juicy results.
• Let it Rest: Resting allows juices to settle. This makes chicken more tender.

Tips for Success

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Grill: Essential for that smoky flavor. A charcoal or gas grill both work great.
• Tongs: For safely flipping those juicy chicken thighs.
• Small Bowl: To mix your delicious spice rub.
• Paper Towels: To get that chicken perfectly dry.
• Grill Brush: Keep those grates nice and clean.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside classic potato salad or creamy coleslaw.
• Pair with grilled corn on the cob for a perfect summer meal.
• Enjoy with a light, crisp lager or iced tea.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions for color.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these grilled BBQ chicken thighs ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prep and season the chicken a few hours before grilling. Some folks even season it the night before for extra flavor. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I still make these BBQ chicken thighs?

Of course! You can achieve delicious results on a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake them in the oven. For oven baking, place seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-35 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes. Just ensure it reaches that safe internal temperature of 165°F.

How can I make my BBQ sauce less sticky or burnt?

The key is to add your BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking. Applying it during the last 10-15 minutes prevents the sugars in the sauce from burning too quickly on the hot grill. Baste a few times, flipping to ensure an even glaze.

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