Description
These BBQ chicken thighs are the gold standard for easy, flavorful outdoor cooking. By utilizing bone-in, skin-on dark meat, this recipe guarantees a succulent and tender result every time. A savory dry rub of smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder creates a delicious base, while a final glaze of your favorite alcohol-free BBQ sauce provides the perfect caramelized finish. Ideal for backyard gatherings or simple weeknight dinners, this foolproof two-stage grilling method ensures the interior stays juicy while the skin becomes irresistibly crispy.
Ingredients
8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup high-quality BBQ sauce (alcohol-free)
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season evenly on both sides with the dry rub.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat for direct searing.
Place chicken skin-side down on the grill and sear for 3-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
Move the chicken to an area of indirect heat and close the grill lid, cooking for about 20-25 minutes.
Brush the BBQ sauce generously over the chicken during the final 5 minutes of cooking.
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing from the grill.
Notes
Ensure you use a BBQ sauce that does not contain alcohol or high-fructose corn syrup to avoid burning during the final glazing stage. For boneless thighs, reduce total cooking time by approximately 10 minutes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Chicken Recipes
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 chicken thighs
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 145mg