Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the savory goodness of BBQ chicken thighs. Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner. With a simple marinade and grilling technique, you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes, making it a great choice for a quick meal.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g of fat, 0g of carbohydrates, and 30g of protein. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill.
- Grill for 7-10 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and brush with more barbecue sauce.
- Continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option. You can also experiment with different barbecue sauces, such as honey mustard or spicy chipotle, to suit your taste.
Serving and Pairings
BBQ chicken thighs pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For a hearty meal, serve them alongside baked potatoes or corn on the cob.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip the marinating step; it enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Avoid cooking on too high heat, which can burn the skin before the meat cooks through.
- Don’t forget to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Resist the urge to flip the chicken too often; let it sear properly.
- Be mindful of flare-ups from the fat; move the chicken to a cooler area if needed.
Helpful Tips
- Use a good quality barbecue sauce for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for juicier meat.
- Experiment with different seasonings to customize the marinade.
- Consider using a meat tenderizer for extra tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use boneless thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless thighs can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster than bone-in thighs.
What type of barbecue sauce is best?
The best barbecue sauce depends on your taste; try a tangy vinegar-based sauce for a classic flavor or a sweet sauce for a sticky finish.
Can I make this recipe in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake the marinated thighs at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I grill the chicken without a marinade?
While you can grill without a marinade, marinating enhances flavor and moisture, making it a worthwhile step.
Conclusion
BBQ chicken thighs are a delicious and easy dish that will surely impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner night, these thighs are sure to be a hit on your dining table!
Bbq Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill.
- Grill for 7-10 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and brush with more barbecue sauce.
- Continue grilling for another 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
