Grilled BBQ Chicken with a Smoky Glaze

Nothing says summer like the smell of BBQ chicken sizzling on the grill. This recipe is perfect for those lazy afternoons when you want to impress friends and family with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken that’s been marinated in a smoky barbecue sauce and grilled to perfection. The combination of charred edges and sweet, tangy sauce will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare, allowing you to enjoy the sunshine while your grill does the work.

Preparation Steps for Grilled BBQ Chicken

To begin the journey of creating flavorful grilled BBQ chicken, it’s essential to start with the marinade. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with rich flavors.

Combine barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mixture will create a savory glaze that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. Once mixed, add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes; for deeper flavors, consider marinating it overnight.

Setting the Grill

While the chicken absorbs the flavors, it’s time to prepare the grill. Preheating is vital for achieving that perfect char and juicy interior.

Set your grill to medium-high heat and ensure the grates are clean. A well-oiled grill surface will prevent the chicken from sticking, allowing it to cook evenly. This preparation will set the stage for a delightful grilling experience.

Grilling Process and Techniques

With the grill heated and chicken marinated, it’s time to get cooking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill, ensuring there’s enough space between each piece for proper heat circulation.

Close the lid and let the chicken cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning it occasionally to achieve even cooking. During the last five minutes, brush the chicken with additional barbecue sauce for a glossy finish that enhances flavor and presentation.

Checking for Doneness

After grilling, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked is essential for both safety and taste. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink. Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, which will help retain its juices.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Presentation adds to the enjoyment of a meal, especially when serving grilled BBQ chicken. Arrange the chicken on a wooden platter for a rustic look that complements the smoky flavors.

Pair the chicken with grilled corn on the cob and a fresh green salad. The sweet corn and crisp salad provide a beautiful contrast, both in texture and color, making the dish visually appealing and inviting.

Enjoying Your Grilled BBQ Chicken

Once everything is plated, gather your friends or family around the table to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The combination of smoky chicken, sweet corn, and fresh salad will surely delight everyone’s palate.

This dish is not only a meal but an experience that brings people together. Each bite of tender chicken, enhanced with smoky and tangy flavors, will create lasting memories of summer gatherings. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of grilled BBQ chicken.

The Ultimate Grilled BBQ Chicken Recipe

This grilled BBQ chicken is a mouthwatering dish featuring succulent chicken pieces glazed with a rich and tangy barbecue sauce. The chicken is marinated for maximum flavor, cooked on the grill until perfectly charred, and served with your favorite sides.

The taste is a delightful mix of sweet and smoky sensations, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any summer meal or backyard barbecue.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
2. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Brush with additional barbecue sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
4. Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your grilled BBQ chicken with your favorite sides!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g