BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe

Craving juicy, flavor-packed BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs that are tender inside and irresistibly charred outside? This is my go-to recipe for everything you love about smoky, saucy grilled chicken—bold spices, a simple technique, and flawless results every time. Whether it’s weeknight dinner or a backyard bash, these BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs win hearts (and empty plates) fast.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t you just love a short ingredient list that delivers big flavor? Each of these ingredients plays a starring role in making your BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs downright addictive—from smoky spices to a tangy-sweet sauce finish.

• Bone-in chicken thighs (1 lb.): Keeps the meat juicy and flavorful through grilling; skin-on gives you those crispy, golden bits everyone fights for.
• Garlic powder (2 tsp): Lends robust, savory undertones to the spice rub.
• Chipotle powder (1/4 tsp): Brings smoky heat—use more if you like it fiery!
• Chili powder (1/4 tsp): Adds gentle warmth and classic BBQ flavor.
• Paprika (1/8 tsp): Gives beautiful color and a subtle sweetness.
• Ground black pepper (1/8 tsp): Brightens and sharpens the spice mix, so your chicken never tastes flat.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): Pulls everything together and ensures juicy, well-seasoned bites.
• Your favorite BBQ sauce (1/4 – 1/3 cup): Whether you go smoky, sweet, or spicy, this is what makes the thighs glossy and irresistibly sticky.

Variations

One of my favorite things about these BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs is how adaptable the recipe is! Whether you need to accommodate dietary preferences or you’re just in the mood to mix things up, there’s a delicious option for everyone.

• Swap the Protein: Use boneless thighs, drumsticks, or even chicken breasts (just adjust cooking time and watch for doneness).
• Try a Different Sauce: Mix up the flavors by glazing with honey mustard, Korean gochujang BBQ sauce, or a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
• Crank Up the Heat: Add more chipotle, a sprinkle of cayenne, or serve with pickled jalapeños on the side for spicy BBQ fans.
• Make It Smokier: Toss in a little smoked paprika or grill over wood chips to give your BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs extra campfire flavor.

How to Make BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This simple step helps remove extra moisture so the skin gets gorgeously crisp on the grill. Trust me, it’s worth a few extra moments for that golden, crackly finish!

Step 2: Make the Spice Blend

Grab a small bowl and mix together the garlic powder, chipotle powder, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Combining the spices first guarantees every bite is bursting with layers of flavor and heat—no bland bites allowed!

Step 3: Season and Marinate

Sprinkle the spice blend over the chicken thighs and use your hands to give each piece a good massage, making sure every nook and cranny is coated. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes—longer is even better! This wait works magic on the flavor and keeps the thighs juicy.

Step 4: Preheat & Set Up Your Grill

While your chicken is marinating, fire up your grill to 400ºF. If you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, set up zones for both direct and indirect heat. This way, you can caramelize the skin and then finish cooking without burning.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Once the chicken is ready, lay the thighs skin side-down over direct heat for 4–5 minutes to crisp up the skin. Then, move them to indirect heat, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce, and let them finish cooking for another 8–10 minutes. Keep basting and flipping until everything is sticky, glossy, and cooked through (a thermometer should read 175°F close to the bone).

How to Serve BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

Garnishes

Sprinkle your BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs with fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or a scatter of very thinly sliced green onions right before serving. A little squeeze of lemon or lime brings out all the smoky, spicy layers.

Side Dishes

These thighs are ready for all your favorite sides—think classic coleslaw, grilled corn on the cob, creamy potato salad, or even crisp pickles. For something fresh, a juicy summer salad or grilled veggies balance the BBQ richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Make a platter for sharing at your next cookout, pile the thighs onto soft buns for over-the-top BBQ chicken sandwiches, or slice them for loaded salads and wraps. Skewer the thighs for a playful party twist and serve with extra sauce for dunking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs should be cooled, then tucked into an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours. They’ll stay moist and flavorful for up to four days—perfect for meal prep or next-day snacking!

Freezing

These BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, wrap individually for easy thawing and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a 300ºF oven, covered with foil, until thoroughly warmed. You can also use the microwave for a quick meal, but add a splash of chicken broth or extra BBQ sauce to keep everything deliciously juicy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s just something special about gathering around the grill with a platter of BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs—the aroma, the sticky fingers, the laughter. If you’re looking to spark big flavors and smiles at your table, you truly can’t go wrong with this tried-and-true favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to let me know how it turns out for you!

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