Elevate your backyard barbecue with this delectable Sugar-Free Classic Chicken BBQ recipe, where bold flavor meets guilt-free indulgence. Perfectly seasoned boneless chicken thighs are marinated in a rich blend of tangy apple cider vinegar, smoky liquid smoke, vibrant spices, and a hint of heat from cayenne pepper (optional), all without a trace of refined sugar. This wholesome marinade infuses every bite with a smoky-sweet barbecue essence, while grilling locks in juiciness and delivers irresistible charred perfection. Ready in under an hour, this recipe is a healthy twist on the classic chicken BBQ, ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or entertaining guests. Pair with sugar-free sides for a satisfying low-carb feast thatβs big on taste and light on excess calories.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
Whisk the ingredients together until well combined and smooth.
Add olive oil, water, and liquid smoke into the mixture and continue whisking until you achieve a consistent marinade.
Place the chicken thighs into a large re-sealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for better flavor absorption.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Once heated, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off.
Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165Β°F (75Β°C).
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Serve the chicken warm with your favorite sugar-free side dishes.
Calories |
1313 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 74.0 g | 95% | |
| Saturated Fat | 16.7 g | 84% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 500 mg | 167% | |
| Sodium | 2872 mg | 125% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 45.0 g | 16% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.6 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.3 g | ||
| Protein | 113.2 g | 226% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 192 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 11.7 mg | 65% | |
| Potassium | 2692 mg | 57% | |
*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.