If you're looking to spice up your summer cookouts, you might want to contemplate these five best chicken barbecue recipes. Whether you prefer the classic BBQ flavor or something with a bit more kick, there's a recipe here that's bound to impress your guests. Each option brings its own unique twist, making them perfect for any occasion. Curious about which recipes stand out and how to master them?
Classic BBQ Chicken
Classic BBQ chicken is a beloved dish that brings together the smoky flavors of the grill with a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce. Perfect for summertime cookouts or family gatherings, this recipe will guide you through making juicy, flavorful chicken that's sure to please a crowd.
Whether you prefer using a gas grill or charcoal, the process is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in tender chicken with a delicious caramelized crust.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, guaranteeing they're evenly coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
Once marinated, place the chicken on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, then flip and brush with barbecue sauce. Grill for an additional 10-12 minutes, basting with more sauce as desired, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and caramelized.
Extra Tips:
For best results, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before grilling to promote even cooking.
If you're using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to create both direct and indirect heat; this allows you to sear the chicken and then move it to the cooler side of the grill to finish cooking without burning.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of barbecue sauce or add your own spices to the marinade for a unique twist.
Finally, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard, resulting in a flavor-packed meal that's perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner.
The marinade not only improves the chicken's flavor but also helps to keep it moist and tender while grilling. With just a few simple ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken, consider adding fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an extra layer of taste.
Make sure to monitor the cooking time closely, as grilling times can vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. If you have leftover marinade, you can boil it for a few minutes to use as a sauce, but be sure to discard any that has come into contact with the raw chicken.
Additionally, letting the chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken.
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Thighs
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and zesty dish perfect for any barbecue gathering or a delicious weeknight dinner. The smoky heat from chipotle peppers combined with the savory richness of the chicken thighs creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.
This recipe is easy to prepare and can be grilled or baked, making it versatile for any cooking preference. Marinade the chicken in a spicy chipotle blend, and you'll have a dish that's both simple and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from the chipotle can
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, honey, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they're well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, cook the chicken thighs skin-side down for 6-8 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
If baking, place the thighs on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an even bolder flavor, consider adding lime juice to the marinade for a citrusy kick.
If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of chipotle peppers used or remove the seeds before mincing.
Pair your Spicy Chipotle Chicken Thighs with a cooling side, such as a creamy coleslaw or a reviving cucumber salad, to balance out the spice.
Don't forget to let the chicken rest after cooking for juicier and more tender meat. Enjoy your grilling!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a delightful and invigorating dish that brings a zesty twist to your barbecue menu. This recipe features succulent chicken marinated in a blend of fresh herbs, tangy lemon juice, and aromatic garlic, creating a flavorful experience that's sure to impress your family and friends.
Perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish is easy to prepare and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving with lemon wedges.
Extra Tips:
For even more depth of flavor, consider adding some grated lemon zest to the marinade for an extra citrus kick.
Make sure to let the chicken rest after grilling, as this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
If you want a smoky flavor, you can add wood chips to your grill for a delicious twist.
Pair this dish with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables to complete your meal.
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Wings
Teriyaki glazed chicken wings are a delightful twist on traditional barbecue chicken, combining sweet and savory flavors that tantalize the taste buds. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a simple weeknight dinner. The wings are marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then grilled or baked to perfection, resulting in crispy skin and tender meat. Serve them with additional sauce on the side for dipping, and enjoy the deliciousness that ensues!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the teriyaki marinade. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl, ensuring they're well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). If using the grill, cook the wings for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with extra marinade (that has been boiled to remove bacteria) until they're crispy and caramelized.
If baking, spread the wings on a lined baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Extra Tips:
For an extra punch of flavor, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or sriracha to the marinade for some heat.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can mix cornstarch with water and add it to the marinade while it simmers on the stove, allowing it to thicken before tossing the cooked wings in it.
Always be sure to cook the wings thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Finally, garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions not only improves the presentation but also adds a fresh crunch to each bite!