Juicy, smoky, and coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze—this barbecue chicken recipe is everything you crave in a backyard classic. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this foolproof method guarantees big flavor and tender bites every time.
🔥 Prep Time: 15 minutes🍽️ Cook Time: 35 minutes⏳ Total Time: 50 minutes
🍴 Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks/breasts)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
For the BBQ Sauce (or use your favorite store-bought one):
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Dash of hot sauce (optional)
Let’s Cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken pieces.
Make the BBQ Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients. Simmer on low heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened. Set aside.
Choose Your Cooking Method:
🔥 Grill: Preheat grill to medium heat. Grill chicken skin-side down for 5–7 minutes, flip, then cook for another 15–20 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes.
🔥 Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30–35 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for caramelized edges.
🔥 Stovetop: Sear chicken in a hot skillet with a little oil until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side. Then reduce heat, cover, and cook for another 10 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes.
🍗 “Sticky, saucy, and smoky—this barbecue chicken is the ultimate homemade comfort food.”
Tips & Variations:
Boneless option: Use boneless thighs for quicker cooking.
Make it spicy: Add chipotle powder or cayenne to the rub or sauce.
Meal prep tip: Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
Serving ideas: Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a baked potato.
📸 Tried this recipe? Tag @Smoothly_Cooking and share your BBQ masterpiece! 🔥🍗