Classic BBQ Chicken
Enjoy the timeless taste of tender chicken pieces glazed in a rich, caramelized barbecue sauce. This recipe delivers that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that defines a backyard summer feast.
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: Medium
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces
- 1 cup high-quality barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the chicken pieces with olive oil and then coat thoroughly with the dry spice mixture.
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 350 degrees F.
- Place chicken on the grill, skin side down, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 15 minutes.
- Brush the chicken generously with barbecue sauce and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
- Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain consistent heat.
- Apply the barbecue sauce only during the last 10 minutes to prevent the sugar in the sauce from burning.
- Use an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless chicken breasts?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time significantly as they cook much faster than bone-in pieces.
How do I prevent flare-ups?
Keep the grill clean and trim excess fat from the chicken before seasoning.
Can I bake this in the oven instead?
Yes, bake at 375 degrees F for 45 to 50 minutes, brushing with sauce at the end.