Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a flavor-packed culinary adventure! This Juicy BBQ Chicken recipe is not just another chicken dish - it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. With a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, these tender chicken thighs are about to become your new go-to recipe for grilling or oven-baking success.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). If using a grill, make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- While the grill is heating, pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a nice sear and crispy skin.
- In a large mixing bowl, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure that the oil and seasoning are evenly distributed.
- Once the chicken is seasoned, place the thighs on the preheated grill or in a baking dish if using the oven. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving them to allow for a good sear.
- After 5-7 minutes, flip the chicken thighs over and brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on the cooked side. Continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken again and brush more BBQ sauce on the second side. Close the grill lid or oven door and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last few minutes of cooking, you can brush on more BBQ sauce if you prefer a thicker glaze. Be careful not to let the sauce burn.
- Once cooked through, remove the chicken thighs from the grill or oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.
- Serve the juicy BBQ chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy exterior and maximum flavor absorption.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don't rush the cooking process - allow time for the BBQ sauce to caramelize and create a delicious glaze.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep the meat juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the BBQ sauce for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
- If using a grill, create a two-zone heating method to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauce varieties to find your perfect flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 355kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg