Barbecue chicken is a summer grilling classic that never gets old. Juicy, smoky, and slathered in sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time. This recipe gives you tender, flavorful chicken with a simple marinade and a bold BBQ sauce basting for that perfect char. It’s easy, quick, and full of flavor! Let’s dive into the details.

Why You’ll Love This Barbecue Chicken Recipe

This BBQ chicken recipe is all about the marinade. Made with a mix of olive oil (or avocado oil if you prefer), apple cider vinegar (or even apple juice for a sweeter kick), and a blend of spices like paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper, it adds deep, zesty flavors that soak into the chicken. The honey brings a little sweetness to balance it all out, while garlic and onion keep things savory.

The chicken is grilled to perfection, with that mouth-watering char from the barbecue sauce, giving it a smoky, caramelized crust while staying juicy inside. Whether you’re using chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, this method works every time.

How to Make Barbecue Chicken

Step 1: Marinade Magic

Start by mixing up your marinade right in a ziploc bag. Throw in ½ cup of olive oil (or avocado oil if you’re feeling fancy), 1 cup apple cider vinegar or apple juice, finely chopped onion, garlic, honey, and spices like paprika, cumin, and optional cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Add your chicken—whether it’s breasts, thighs, or any pieces you like—and seal the bag tight. Turn it a few times to coat the chicken, and then let it hang out in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes. The longer, the better for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to about 400°F. You want it hot enough to get a good sear without drying out the meat.

Step 3: Grill & Baste

Once your chicken is ready, remove it from the marinade and toss the bag. Place the chicken on the grill and baste it with your favorite BBQ sauce. Grill each side for 5-6 minutes, brushing on more sauce before flipping, and then again after flipping. Keep an eye on it—you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165-170°F for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.

Step 4: Rest & Serve

Once your chicken is off the grill, let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Brush on a little more barbecue sauce if you’re feeling saucy, and serve with extra sauce on the side.

Pro Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: If you have time, let the chicken marinate longer. Overnight would be amazing if you’re prepping ahead!
• Check the Temp: Use an instant-read thermometer to make sure your chicken is cooked through without drying it out.
• Sauce it Up: Don’t be shy with the BBQ sauce—layer it on as you grill to get that sticky, flavorful crust.

Variations to Try

• Spicy BBQ: Love a kick? Add more cayenne pepper to your marinade or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
• Sweet & Tangy: Swap apple cider vinegar for apple juice in the marinade for a slightly sweeter taste.
• Herby Twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for a fragrant twist.

This BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or a light summer salad. It’s an easy go-to for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep for the week.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up that grill and get ready to enjoy some mouth-watering BBQ chicken!

Sides to Serve With Barbecue Chicken

• Smoked (or baked) Macaroni and Cheese — My Most Requested Recipe
• Maple Cinnamon Sweet Potatoes, Apples and Pears
• Easy Southern-Style Collared Greens Recipe
• Spicy Smoked Mashed Potatoes: Bacon-Infused Ghost Pepper Mash

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