Barbecue chicken is a classic dish loved by many for its smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. This recipe takes the traditional barbecue chicken and adds a homemade barbecue sauce that will elevate the dish to a whole new level. It’s perfect for a summer cookout or a simple weeknight dinner. The key to great barbecue chicken is to cook it low and slow, allowing the flavors to develop and the chicken to become tender and juicy.
Ingredients for Barbecue Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
How to Make Barbecue Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
- Season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper.
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Place the chicken thighs and drumsticks on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices run clear.
- During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the barbecue sauce onto the chicken, turning occasionally to coat evenly. Continue to cook until the sauce caramelizes and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
About the Main Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs and drumsticks: These cuts of chicken are perfect for barbecue because they stay moist and tender when cooked low and slow.
- Barbecue sauce: The homemade barbecue sauce in this recipe is sweet, tangy, and smoky, with a hint of spice. It’s made with ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a blend of spices.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the sauce ingredients and add a subtle richness to the barbecue sauce.
- Ketchup: Provides the base for the barbecue sauce and adds sweetness and tanginess.
- Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor and a savory richness to the sauce.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that complements the grilled chicken.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Add depth of flavor and enhance the overall savory profile of the sauce.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a hint of heat to the sauce. Adjust the amount to suit your preference.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the barbecue chicken hot off the grill, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs well with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad. Enjoy the delicious smoky flavor and tender, juicy chicken with family and friends!
