Ultimate Chicken Breast Recipe on BBQ
If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a delicious and satisfying dish, look no further than ultimate barbecue chicken on the grill. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs and drumsticks with a flavorful dry rub and a tangy homemade barbecue sauce. The bone-in, skin-on chicken ensures maximum juiciness and taste. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving some finger-licking good chicken, this recipe will not disappoint. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients You Need
Before we get started with the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather the ingredients required to make this delectable barbecue chicken:
- Chicken Thighs & Drumsticks (Bone-in, skin-on, for juiciness)
- Dry Rub:
- Kosher salt
- Garlic powder
- Smoked paprika
- Chili powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- BBQ Sauce:
- Tomato sauce
- Apple cider vinegar
- Molasses
- Spices
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to fire up the grill and start cooking! Follow these simple steps to make the ultimate barbecue chicken:
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat and set it up for indirect cooking. This means placing the coals or burners on one side of the grill, leaving the other side without direct heat. This setup will allow the chicken to cook evenly without burning.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat dry the chicken thighs and drumsticks with paper towels to ensure better adhesion of the seasoning. Now, generously sprinkle the dry rub mixture over the chicken pieces. The combination of kosher salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper will create a perfect blend of flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the BBQ Sauce
While the chicken is absorbing the flavors of the dry rub, let’s whip up the homemade barbecue sauce. In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, molasses, and your favorite spices. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and let it thicken slightly.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken pieces on the side of the grill without direct heat. Close the lid and let the chicken cook for about 20 minutes. After that, flip the chicken and baste it with the prepared barbecue sauce.
Step 5: Baste and Repeat
As the chicken continues to cook, baste it with the barbecue sauce every few minutes to enhance the flavor and moisture. Continue this process until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 170-175°F.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Now that your ultimate barbecue chicken is ready, serve it hot and enjoy the succulent and flavorful goodness. This dish pairs perfectly with coleslaw, cornbread, or a fresh garden salad. Your guests will be impressed by the mouthwatering flavors and tender texture of the chicken.
BBQ CHICKEN | ultimate barbecue chicken on the grill!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? A: While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks are recommended for juiciness, you can use boneless chicken if you prefer. Keep in mind that boneless cuts may cook faster.
- Q: How long does it take to grill the chicken? A: The grilling time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. On average, it takes about 20-25 minutes per side for bone-in, skin-on chicken.
- Q: Can I make the barbecue sauce in advance? A: Absolutely! The barbecue sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to a week. Just reheat it before using it to baste the chicken.
- Q: Can I cook this recipe in the oven if I don’t have a grill? A: Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F, place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until fully cooked.
- Q: Can I adjust the spice level in the dry rub? A: Of course! Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder and black pepper in the dry rub according to your heat preference.
- Q: Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce instead of homemade? A: Absolutely! While homemade barbecue sauce adds a personal touch, you can use your favorite store-bought sauce if you’re short on time.
There you have it—the ultimate barbecue chicken on the grill recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The combination of juicy chicken, a flavorful dry rub, and tangy barbecue sauce creates a harmonious and delightful taste experience. Remember to use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks for the best results. Whether it’s a weekend barbecue with friends or a weeknight family dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite. So, fire up your grill and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering barbecue delight!
