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Savory Grilled BBQ Chicken Recipe with Perfectly Charred Glaze Made Easy

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This savory grilled BBQ chicken features a perfectly charred, sticky-sweet glaze that locks in juiciness and smoky flavor. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights or cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably thick and smoky, e.g., Stubb’s Original)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional garnish: fresh chopped parsley or green onions

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken thighs (about 2 lbs). Lightly coat with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  2. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Rub evenly over all sides of the chicken.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Place chicken skin-side down on the grill. Grill for 6–8 minutes without moving to get grill marks and crispy skin. Flip carefully using tongs.
  6. Brush the first layer of glaze onto the cooked side. Grill for another 6–8 minutes. Flip again and baste the other side. Repeat basting and flipping 2–3 times every 4–5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and glaze is sticky and slightly charred.
  7. If flare-ups occur, move chicken to a cooler part of the grill to avoid burning.
  8. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  9. Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions over the top just before serving.

Notes

Patience is key to achieving the perfect charred glaze—baste multiple thin layers during grilling rather than applying all at once to avoid burning. Use indirect heat if flare-ups occur. Rest chicken after grilling for juiciness. For oven method, broil on a lined baking sheet, turning and glazing every 5 minutes until cooked through.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken, grilled chicken, charred glaze, smoky chicken, easy BBQ recipe, summer grilling, chicken thighs

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/savory-grilled-bbq-chicken-recipe-with-perfectly-charred-glaze-made-easy/