Easy BBQ Chicken Thighs on the Grill – 5-Star Flavor with Minimal Effort
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BBQ Chicken Thighs
When summer calls, nothing answers quite like grilled BBQ chicken thighs. This recipe brings you tender, juicy meat wrapped in layers of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor—all with minimal ingredients and just a bit of grill time.
Unlike chicken breasts, chicken thighs stay moist, even over high heat, and they soak up flavor like a sponge. This is the perfect dish for backyard BBQs, camping trips, or quick weekday meals. Whether you’re a grill master or just starting out, you’ll love how to make BBQ chicken thighs on the grill without stress or mess.
Let’s fire it up!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Thighs
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs | 6 pieces |
| Salt | 1½ tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Your favorite BBQ sauce | ½ cup (plus more for basting) |
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Thigh)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 23 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Step-by-Step Instructions of BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and gives you a better sear on the grill. - Season Well
In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub the mixture evenly all over the chicken thighs, then drizzle with olive oil and massage it in. - Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 375–400°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. - Grill the Thighs (Skin Side Down First)
Place the chicken skin-side down directly over the heat. Grill for 5–6 minutes until the skin is crisp and golden brown. - Flip and Baste
Flip the chicken and start brushing with BBQ sauce. Continue grilling for another 5–7 minutes, basting every couple of minutes and flipping as needed to avoid burning. - Finish Over Indirect Heat
Move the chicken to indirect heat (cooler side of the grill), cover, and cook for another 10–15 minutes until the internal temperature hits 175°F. Thighs need a bit more heat to break down and become super tender. - Rest and Serve
Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side!
Tips, Substitutes, & Serving Ideas
- Cooking Time: Total ~25–30 minutes.
- Temperature Tip: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs are best at 175°F for max tenderness.
- No Grill? You can bake them in the oven at 400°F for 35–40 minutes and broil at the end for crispiness.
- Boneless Option: Use boneless thighs to reduce cook time, but keep an eye on moisture.
- BBQ Sauce Ideas:
- Classic smoky BBQ
- Honey chipotle for heat
- Carolina-style vinegar BBQ
- Great Sides:
- Corn on the cob with butter and chili
- Creamy coleslaw
- Baked potatoes or grilled veggies
- Mac and cheese for comfort heaven
FAQs of BBQ Chicken Thighs
Q: Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?
Yes! Marinate in olive oil, spices, and BBQ sauce for up to 12 hours in the fridge. This adds even more flavor.
Q: What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?
Any kind you love! Whether it’s store-bought or homemade, go for bold flavors. Sweet and smoky varieties work best with grilled chicken.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Let the chicken cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Q: Can I freeze grilled BBQ chicken?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Q: Should I grill with the lid open or closed?
Grill uncovered while searing and flipping, then close the lid when finishing over indirect heat to lock in flavor and even cooking.
Why This Recipe Works
What makes these BBQ Chicken Thighs special is the balance between simplicity and flavor. You get:
- Crispy skin with a smoky char
- Juicy, flavorful meat inside
- That sticky-sweet BBQ glaze
- A foolproof process that even beginners can master
Plus, using chicken thighs means you won’t deal with dry meat—ever. It’s one of the most forgiving cuts and ideal for grilling. Whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, this dish guarantees clean plates and full bellies.
Try It and Share the Love!
This deliciously easy recipe for grilled BBQ chicken thighs is one of our go-tos on DailyMeatRecipe. It’s quick, cost-effective, and endlessly crowd-pleasing. Perfect for summer, weeknights, or whenever you crave bold flavor with minimal effort.
👉 Fire up the grill and give it a go! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and let us know how yours turned out!
