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Avatar photoJohnson Maya

Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

Crispy-skinned, juicy grilled bbq chicken thighs with smoky rub and sticky sauce—American BBQ perfection that's foolproof and crowd-pleasing. Bone-in thighs stay moist on the grill, delivering bold flavors in under 45 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 295
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • FOR THE CHICKEN:
  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • FOR SAUCING:
  • 2 cups BBQ sauce

Equipment

  • Grill (gas or charcoal)
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. grilled bbq chicken thighs recipeCard1
  2. Step 1: Pat chicken thighs dry, rub with oil and mixed spices (salt, paprika, garlic/onion powders, pepper). Rest 15-30 min. Step 2: Preheat two-zone grill to 375-450°F. Grill skin-down direct 6-8 min until golden. Step 3: Flip, cook indirect to 175°F (total 25-30 min). Sauce last 5 min over direct, flipping once. Rest 5 min.

Nutrition

Calories: 295 | Carbohydrates: 12 | Protein: 25 | Fat: 16 | Sugar: 10

Notes

STORAGE: Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze unsauced 3 months. Reheat oven 350°F to 165°F.
MAKE AHEAD: Rub chicken up to 4 hours ahead.
SUBSTITUTIONS: Skinless thighs for lower fat; low-sugar BBQ sauce.
PRO TIPS: Pat dry for crisp skin; two-zone prevents burning; thermometer ensures juicy grilled bbq chicken thighs.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: With coleslaw, cornbread, or salads. Chop for tacos.
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