BBQ chicken thighs are a popular and delicious grilling option that offers a perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The rich, smoky barbecue sauce coats the juicy chicken thighs, creating a mouthwatering dish that is sure to satisfy any craving.
Why Choose Chicken Thighs?
Chicken thighs are a great choice for grilling because they are naturally more flavorful and moist than chicken breasts. They contain a higher amount of dark meat, which is richer in flavor and fat, resulting in a juicier and more tender piece of meat.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup your favorite barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Make the marinade: In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them on the preheated grill, skin-side down. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste and finish cooking: Brush the chicken thighs with the remaining marinade and grill for another 2-3 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ chicken thighs can be served with a variety of side dishes, such as:
- Grilled vegetables: Grilled corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers are delicious accompaniments to BBQ chicken thighs.
- Potato salad: A creamy potato salad is a classic side dish that pairs well with grilled chicken.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a tangy and crunchy element to the meal.
- Baked beans: Sweet or savory baked beans are a hearty and flavorful side dish.
Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Marinate overnight: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate the thighs overnight in the refrigerator.
- Don’t overcook: Chicken thighs can dry out if cooked for too long. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
- Experiment with different barbecue sauces: There are countless varieties of barbecue sauce available, so feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your favorite.
- Serve with a side of bread: A warm loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious barbecue sauce.
BBQ chicken thighs are a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
