BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

Get ready for flavor fireworks—these BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs are about to become the hero of your next cookout! Juicy, boldly spiced, and lacquered with sticky-sweet BBQ sauce, they’re exactly what summer evenings (and backyard grills) were made for.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few trusty ingredients, you’ll unlock the hallmark flavor and juicy texture of classic BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs. Each element brings something important to the party, working together to create that perfect mouthwatering bite you crave.

• Bone-in Chicken Thighs (1 lb.): These are the star—tender, flavorful, and forgiving on the grill, they soak up spices and BBQ sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Powder (2 teaspoons): Adds deep, savory undertones for that classic BBQ vibe.
• Chipotle Powder (1/4 teaspoon): A little smoky heat brings irresistible depth—don’t skip it if you love a subtle kick!
• Chili Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor profile with mild heat and earthy, peppery notes.
• Paprika (1/8 teaspoon): Delivers mild sweetness and that gorgeous, rosy glow on the grill.
• Ground Black Pepper (1/8 teaspoon): Freshly cracked is best, giving a gentle, peppery finish.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances every other ingredient and ensures your chicken is ultra-flavorful through and through.
• BBQ Sauce (1/4 – 1/3 cup): Your favorite brand or homemade—tailor the flavor to your mood, whether you like classic sweet, tangy, or spicy-hot.

Variations

One of the joys of BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs is just how easily you can tweak the recipe to suit your personal cravings or whatever’s in your pantry. Feel free to mix it up and make it your own—these are suggestions to get you started!

• Boneless Thighs: Swap bone-in for boneless-skinless thighs for a quicker cook and easy slicing for salads or sandwiches.
• Different BBQ Sauces: Try chipotle, honey-mustard, Alabama white sauce, or even a spicy Korean-style BBQ glaze for an international twist.
• Low-Sugar or Keto: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and check seasoning blends to create a lower-carb, keto-friendly version.
• Spice Swap: Amp up the heat with cayenne or smoked hot paprika, or go herb-forward with rosemary or thyme for a different spin.

How to Make BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prep and Pat Dry

Start by taking your chicken thighs out of the packaging and patting each one dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture is key—it helps the spices stick and encourages crispy, golden skin (instead of steaming on the grill).

Step 2: Mix and Apply the Spices

In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, chipotle powder, chili powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Sprinkle this aromatic mixture evenly over the chicken, then rub it in with your hands—you want every nook and cranny coated for mega flavor.

Step 3: Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Let your spiced chicken thighs rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. If you have the time, an hour or even overnight in the fridge is even better—this “marinating” lets the seasonings penetrate and juiciness develop.

Step 4: Fire Up the Grill

Set your grill to 400ºF and create two cooking zones: one for direct heat and one for indirect (simply leave one area of burners off, or push coals to one side). This gives you both searing power and gentle heat to finish cooking through.

Step 5: Sear and Flip

Place the chicken thighs skin side-down over direct heat. Grill for 4–5 minutes to crisp the skin, then flip and cook the other side for another 4–5 minutes until you see gorgeous grill marks and juicy sizzle.

Step 6: Caramelize with BBQ Sauce

Move the chicken to the indirect-heat side of the grill, skin side up. Generously brush each thigh with BBQ sauce—about a tablespoon per piece. Close the lid and let the sauce bubble and caramelize for 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye so it never burns.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Take the chicken off the grill and give it at least 5 minutes to rest. This simple pause locks in juices and makes slicing clean and easy. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and dig in!

How to Serve BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

Scatter freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or even a handful of scallions over your BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs right after grilling. The burst of green not only looks gorgeous but brings a fresh, herbal balance to all that deep, smoky goodness. For a pop of zing, a touch of finely grated lemon or lime zest works wonders.

Side Dishes

Pair your chicken thighs with classic BBQ companions—think grilled corn, creamy slaw, buttered cornbread, or a tangy potato salad. Or brighten up the plate with a crisp cucumber-tomato salad or juicy watermelon wedges for a cool, summery contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs on a platter with grilled lemon halves or serve them “deconstructed” in tacos with crunchy slaw and spicy mayo. For parties, slice the thighs and skewer with pickles or charred peppers for a fun, shareable appetizer tray.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate—they’ll keep perfectly for up to four days, ready for grab-and-go lunches or quick weeknight meals.

Freezing

Freeze completely cooled chicken thighs (whole or sliced) tightly wrapped or in freezer bags. They’ll be delicious for up to three months—just remember to label and date the package for an easy future dinner win!

Reheating

To reheat, cover the chicken with foil and warm in a 325ºF oven until heated through (about 15–20 minutes). For extra “just grilled” flavor, a quick stint on a hot grill or pan will revive the caramelized sauce and crispy edges.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Whether you fire up the grill for a crowd or simply want to treat yourself to irresistible, messy-good BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs, this recipe brings all the smoky, saucy joy you’re after. Give it a try—and don’t forget plenty of napkins (and maybe seconds!).

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