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BBQ Chicken

BBQ Chicken

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy BBQ Chicken recipe delivers bold, smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors with minimal prep. Using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it yields juicy, flavorful chicken perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Whether grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop, the natural BBQ sauce coats tender chicken thighs or drumsticks for a crowd-pleasing dish that can be customized to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks (about 2 pounds)

BBQ Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent

For Cooking & Seasoning

  • Olive oil, for coating and searing
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions
  • Cayenne pepper or chopped fresh chili peppers (for spicy kick)
  • Molasses (for sweet and smoky flavor)
  • Fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano (herb-infused)
  • Chopped pineapple or mango (for tropical flair)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tomato paste (natural), brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, olive oil, and a small amount of natural gelling agent until smooth. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
  2. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to help them crisp up when cooked. Lightly coat the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a grill or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces skin-side down until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook the other side for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add the BBQ Sauce: Brush a generous layer of the prepared BBQ sauce over each chicken piece. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan or close the grill lid, and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. Baste once or twice with more sauce to build up flavor and moisture.
  5. Finish and Rest: Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), remove it from the heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy and tender.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken in a little BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked and safe.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to allow even cooking and proper caramelization.
  • Keep the BBQ sauce warm before applying to help it spread evenly and stick well.
  • Rest the chicken after cooking to redistribute juices and maximize moisture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh or drumstick with sauce
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken, barbecue chicken, grilled chicken, baked chicken, smoky chicken, easy chicken recipe, family dinner, crowd-pleaser, plant-based sauce

Find it online: https://tastysoulkitchen.com/bbq-chicken/