Description
Sizzling spicy BBQ chicken thighs bring smoky flavor and bold heat to summer gatherings. Marinated in zesty spices and grilled to perfection, this dish promises a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 4–6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
Marinade Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquid and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Craft a zesty marinade by whisking together BBQ sauce, hot sauce, olive oil, and spice blend of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Immerse chicken thighs completely in the marinade, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Seal the container and refrigerate for minimum 1 hour, preferably overnight to maximize flavor infusion.
- Heat outdoor grill to medium-high temperature around 400°F. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Position chicken skin-side down on grill grates.
- Grill chicken thighs approximately 5-7 minutes per side, carefully monitoring for even caramelization. Periodically baste with remaining marinade during final cooking minutes.
- Verify internal meat temperature reaches 165°F using meat thermometer to ensure complete cooking. Look for deep golden-brown exterior with crispy edges indicating perfect doneness.
- Transfer grilled chicken from grates and allow to rest 5 minutes, enabling juices to redistribute throughout meat. This step guarantees maximum tenderness and moisture retention.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for vibrant color contrast. Serve immediately with additional BBQ sauce on side for enhanced flavor experience.
Notes
- Swap hot sauce for milder versions like sweet chili or sriracha to adjust spice levels for sensitive palates.
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a leaner option that cooks faster and reduces overall fat content.
- Create a gluten-free version by selecting a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce and checking ingredient labels carefully.
- Enhance marinade depth by adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or honey for balanced sweet-tangy complexity.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg