Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in bold spices and sticky barbecue sauce, grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
Main Ingredients
- 4-6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F to 450°F).
Grilling
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 7-10 minutes per side, occasionally brushing with leftover marinade, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Invest in a meat thermometer! It helps ensure perfectly cooked chicken. If flare-ups occur on the grill, move the chicken to a cooler part. Optionally, add lime or lemon juice to the marinade for a refreshing twist.