If you’re looking for the ultimate backyard feast, this BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe is about to become your go-to favorite. Juicy, smoky, and laced with just the right amount of charred sweetness, it’s a foolproof way to win over family and friends at any cookout. There’s something magical about the way the tangy BBQ sauce caramelizes over sizzling chicken, infusing every bite with layers of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just dipping your toes into summer grilling, this recipe brings maximum satisfaction with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of staples, you’ll create chicken that’s bursting with flavor and beautifully charred. Each ingredient plays its own delicious role, from adding richness to bringing a gentle kick of spice or that unmistakable smokiness.
- Chicken thighs and drumsticks: These cuts stay juicy on the grill and their skin crisps up beautifully under the heat.
- Olive oil: Helps the spices cling to the chicken and encourages a gorgeous, golden crust.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps the meat stay tender and moist.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to each bite.
- Garlic powder: Brings a mellow, savory note that pairs perfectly with BBQ sauce.
- Smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and a lovely pop of color.
- BBQ sauce: The star of the show, bringing sweet, tangy, and smoky goodness to every piece (use your favorite store-bought or homemade blend).
- Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant finish that makes your platter look extra inviting.
How to Make BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Grill and Chicken
First things first: preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for that sweet spot of 375–400°F. While the grill heats up, pat your chicken pieces dry with paper towels—this step is key for achieving that crave-worthy crispy skin. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Massage this flavorful blend all over the chicken, making sure every nook and cranny is coated.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Place your chicken skin-side down on the hot grill grates. Cover and let them sizzle for 5–6 minutes, just until those irresistible grill marks appear. Flip the chicken over and cook for another 5–6 minutes, letting the second side get golden and slightly charred. This quick sear locks in juices and sets the stage for the BBQ sauce magic.
Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce and Slow Grill
Move the chicken to indirect heat, or turn the flame down if you’re using a gas grill. Now comes the fun part: brush the pieces generously with BBQ sauce. Cover the grill and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning the chicken and basting with more sauce every 5–7 minutes. This slow-and-steady approach ensures the sauce caramelizes beautifully without burning, and the chicken cooks through perfectly. Use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once your BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe is cooked through and irresistibly glossy, transfer the pieces to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes. This short rest lets the juices settle, keeping every bite succulent. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you like, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A finishing touch of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to your BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe. You could also try thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a fun twist.
Side Dishes
This dish is a total crowd-pleaser alongside classic summer sides. Think corn on the cob, creamy coleslaw, or a simple potato salad. For a lighter option, toss together a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the smoky-sweet chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a beautiful family-style presentation, arrange the BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe pieces on a large platter, sprinkle generously with parsley, and nestle in lemon wedges for squeezing. Or, pile them high in a rustic basket lined with parchment for a picnic-ready vibe. Leftovers make tasty sliders or can be shredded over salads for an easy lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Freezing
If you want to stash some away for later, freeze the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze without extra sauce, then add a fresh drizzle after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the chicken pieces on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. Brush with a little extra BBQ sauce before serving to keep things moist and flavorful. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps the skin a bit crisper.
FAQs
Do I have to use bone-in, skin-on chicken for this BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe?
Bone-in, skin-on pieces give you the juiciest, most flavorful results, but you can absolutely use boneless, skinless cuts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time will be shorter, so keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.
Can I grill this recipe indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
Yes! Use a stovetop grill pan or even a broiler if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. You’ll still get that lovely char and deep BBQ flavor, especially with a good-quality sauce.
What’s the best BBQ sauce to use for this BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe?
Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce works perfectly, but if you have a homemade recipe you love, go for it! Sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy—they all shine on this chicken, so choose according to your taste.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and easiest way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat (not touching bone); when it reads 165°F (74°C), your BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe is ready to enjoy.
Can I marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Marinating for a few hours or overnight adds even more flavor. Just remember to save some sauce for basting on the grill so you get that gorgeous sticky glaze.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about gathering around the grill and sharing food that’s made with love. This BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe is my tried-and-true favorite for sunny afternoons and family dinners, and I can’t wait for you to try it. Fire up your grill and let the good times roll!
