Description

This Mouthwatering BBQ Chicken is your go-to recipe for juicy, smoky, and flavor-packed grilled chicken that delivers every single time. Perfect for a quick summer dinner, backyard party, or weekend BBQ, this easy recipe features a rich marinade and a sticky, caramelized BBQ glaze that clings to every bite. It’s one of the best dinner ideas for chicken lovers and a satisfying option for both casual and festive occasions. This easy recipe fits right in with your favorite food ideas—whether you’re planning a healthy snack with leftovers or looking for classic dinner ideas that never miss.

Ingredients

3 lbs chicken pieces (drumsticks, thighs, or a mix)

1 cup BBQ sauce

3 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp salt

1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)

1 lemon, juiced

Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and optional brown sugar.

2. Add chicken and toss until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

3. Preheat grill to medium heat (about 375°F). If using charcoal, create indirect and direct heat zones. Oil grill grates.

4. Grill chicken over indirect heat for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

5. Move chicken to direct heat, baste with BBQ sauce, and sear 2-3 minutes on each side for caramelization.

6. Remove chicken when internal temperature hits 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

7. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce and your favorite sides.

Notes

Marinate the chicken overnight if possible for maximum flavor infusion.

Always grill with indirect heat first to cook through evenly, then finish with direct heat to char the sauce.

Use a meat thermometer to hit the magic 165°F without drying the chicken out.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 320
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken, grilled chicken, summer dinner, easy recipe, backyard BBQ, food ideas, dinner ideas