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cookout recipes - A platter of grilled BBQ chicken thighs with charred marks and a glossy sauce coating.

Ultimate Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs

Succulent, smoky, and perfectly glazed chicken thighs that are the highlight of any summer menu. Easy to prepare and full of classic barbecue flavor.

  • Total Time: PT45M
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup high-quality BBQ sauce
Cooking oil for the grill grates

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, creating a two-zone setup with direct and indirect heating areas.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dry rub.
Step 3: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and apply the dry rub generously to all sides of the meat.
Step 4: Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Place the chicken skin-side down over direct heat and sear for 5-6 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
Step 6: Flip the chicken and move it to the indirect heat side of the grill.
Step 7: Close the lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 8: Brush the BBQ sauce onto the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
Step 9: Remove from the grill and let the meat rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165 degrees without drying out.

  • Prep Time: PT20M
  • Cook Time: PT25M
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 thigh
  • Calories: 345
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: cookout recipes, grilled chicken, BBQ thighs, summer grilling, backyard BBQ

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