Bring bold flavors to your table with this Low Sodium Classic Chicken BBQ recipe, perfect for health-conscious barbecue lovers who crave smoky, sweet, and spicy chicken without the extra salt. Tender chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant blend of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, no-salt-added tomato paste, and a medley of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, with a touch of liquid smoke for that authentic backyard BBQ taste. Grilled to juicy perfection, this low-sodium dish is ready in under 45 minutes and pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a fresh side salad. Whether you're hosting a cookout or preparing a family dinner, this heart-healthy recipe delivers all the flavor with none of the guilt!
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, no-salt-added tomato paste, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and liquid smoke to form a marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a dish, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off before placing it on the hot grill.
Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Occasionally brush the chicken with remaining marinade during grilling for added flavor and moisture, but stop doing so during the last few minutes to avoid cross-contamination.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs of choice or a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Calories |
1720 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 94.7 g | 121% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.6 g | 118% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 564 mg | 188% | |
| Sodium | 524 mg | 23% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 53.6 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.5 g | 16% | |
| Total Sugars | 43.4 g | ||
| Protein | 160.1 g | 320% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 112 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 2111 mg | 45% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.