Get ready to fire up the grill because the "Ultimate BBQ Chicken" is about to become your go-to recipe for backyard cookouts and weeknight dinners. Featuring tender, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, this recipe bursts with bold flavors from a smoky spice rub and a perfectly balanced BBQ glaze made with honey and apple cider vinegar. Each piece is grilled to juicy perfection, boasting a crispy, caramelized exterior thanks to repeated basting that locks in sweet and tangy goodness. With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple steps, this crowd-pleaser is as easy as it is irresistible. Serve it up with classic sides like coleslaw or grilled corn for a meal that screams summertime BBQ at its best. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and earn rave reviews!
Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F/190°C). If using a charcoal grill, light the coals and let them burn until they are covered in gray ash.
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a simple seasoning rub.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Brush each piece with olive oil and rub evenly with the prepared spice mixture.
Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Close the lid and cook for 15 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
While the chicken is grilling, combine BBQ sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Mix well to make your glaze.
After 15 minutes, brush the chicken with the glaze and turn the pieces over. Repeat glazing and turning every 5 minutes for an additional 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is recommended for accuracy.
Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Serve hot with additional BBQ sauce on the side, alongside your favorite sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled corn.
Calories |
3443 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 234.8 g | 301% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.2 g | 316% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 972 mg | 324% | |
| Sodium | 4079 mg | 177% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 105.5 g | 38% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.6 g | 31% | |
| Total Sugars | 92.8 g | ||
| Protein | 224.6 g | 449% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 300 mg | 23% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 3308 mg | 70% | |
*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.