Savor the smoky, tangy delight of North Carolina-Style BBQ Chicken, a recipe that brings the irresistible flavors of the South straight to your grill. This mouthwatering dish features tender, juicy chicken thighs and drumsticks coated in a simple spice rub of paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper, then grilled to perfection. The star of the recipe is a zesty vinegar-based barbecue sauce, enriched with apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes and hot sauce. Brushed over the chicken as it cooks, the bold flavors seep into every bite, creating a beautifully caramelized glaze. Perfect for summer cookouts or cozy family dinners, this BBQ chicken pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like coleslaw or cornbread. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser for every barbecue lover.
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs and drumsticks. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
In a medium saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, ketchup, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside. This will be your North Carolina-style BBQ sauce.
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F to 375°F). Brush the grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Place the chicken pieces skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the skin is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Flip the chicken and continue to cook over indirect heat, occasionally brushing it with the prepared BBQ sauce.
Cook the chicken for an additional 35-40 minutes, flipping every 10 minutes and basting generously with sauce, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the chicken with additional BBQ sauce on the side and your favorite Southern sides like coleslaw or cornbread.
Calories |
2644 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 192.2 g | 246% | |
| Saturated Fat | 50.5 g | 252% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 16.8 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 846 mg | 282% | |
| Sodium | 3710 mg | 161% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 34.3 g | 12% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 9% | |
| Total Sugars | 24.8 g | ||
| Protein | 181.5 g | 363% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 179 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 11.3 mg | 63% | |
| Potassium | 2492 mg | 53% | |
*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.