Best BBQ Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Perfect for grilling season, this recipe combines tender chicken pieces with a rich, homemade barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The secret to achieving juicy and flavorful chicken lies in marinating it with a blend of spices and allowing it to absorb the delicious sauce as it cooks. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply enjoying a family dinner, this BBQ chicken is sure to be a hit, delivering a delightful combination of taste and texture that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 4 chicken drumsticks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
- Make the BBQ sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour half of the BBQ sauce over the chicken, reserving the other half for basting. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F or 190°C).
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). During the last 10 minutes of grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce, flipping and basting frequently to create a caramelized glaze.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side, if desired.
Enjoy your Best BBQ Chicken as a delicious and flavorful main course, perfect for any barbecue or family meal, delivering smoky and savory goodness in every bite.
