BBQ Chicken
There’s something incredibly comforting about a plate of BBQ Chicken sizzling on the grill. I can still remember the smell wafting through the backyard on summer evenings, where family and friends gathered under the warm glow of the setting sun. The anticipation built as we waited for those juicy chicken drumsticks to caramelize, the BBQ sauce glistening like a promise of flavor. Our outdoor grill became the soul of our summer barbecues, creating not just meals but cherished memories. Each bite of that smoky, tangy chicken was a reminder of the laughter and stories shared. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or hosting a backyard gathering, BBQ Chicken never fails to bring everyone together.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Easy
300 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Grater, Mixing Bowl
What We Adore About This BBQ Chicken
It’s the Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser
Whenever I whip up BBQ Chicken, the excitement in the room is palpable. It’s simply irresistible! The combination of juicy chicken and a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze makes it a dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re feeding a small family or a party of guests, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
Healthy Yet Indulgent
Many might think that BBQ means unhealthy, but with BBQ Chicken, you can indulge without guilt. By choosing skin-on chicken drumsticks, you keep that delicious fat that ensures flavor without overdoing it. You can easily control the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, allowing you to create a healthier version that still satisfies cravings.
Perfect for Any Occasion
From summer barbecues to cozy family dinners, BBQ Chicken fits seamlessly into any occasion. It’s versatile, making it perfect for any season or event. You can easily serve it with a refreshing salad for lighter meals or hearty sides for a more filling feast.
Easy to Prepare
The prep for BBQ Chicken is a breeze. A simple marination process brings out the best flavors, and you can set it to marinate while you attend to other tasks. This allows you to enjoy the day without feeling tied to the kitchen.
Memories with Every Bite
Cooking BBQ Chicken is not just about the meal; it’s a way to create lasting memories. With each piece you grill, you’re crafting a moment to cherish with friends and family. The simple act of sharing a meal becomes something more profound.
What to Gather for BBQ Chicken
To create a stellar BBQ Chicken, you need to gather some key ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving that perfect blend of flavors. Let’s explore the essential players in this savory symphony.
- 8 chicken drumsticks – The stars of the dish, juicy and flavorful, they soak up the marinade beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt – A must-have seasoning that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds depth and a hint of sweetness, complementing the BBQ sauce.
- 4 tablespoons BBQ sauce – The heart of the dish, providing that iconic tangy flavor.
- 3 teaspoons yellow mustard – A secret ingredient that balances the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
How to Cook BBQ Chicken
Cooking BBQ Chicken is not just a task; it’s an experience! The process involves marinating, grilling, and serving up a plate of joy. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly cooked chicken filled with tantalizing flavors.
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken drumsticks with seasoning salt and garlic powder. Make sure to coat them evenly. Cover and marinate them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for the best flavor. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they become!
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, yellow mustard, and about 2 tablespoons of water. Mix this until smooth. This mixture will not only flavor the chicken but also create a beautiful glaze.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat. This is crucial for achieving that perfect sear on the chicken while keeping it juicy.
- Oil the Grates: Before placing the chicken on the grill, oil the grates carefully. This prevents sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Grill the Chicken: Reduce the grill heat to low, then place the marinated chicken drumsticks on the grill. Cover and cook, turning often, until they are golden brown and cooked through in the center. This should take around 18 to 20 minutes. Look for that beautiful golden color!
- Brush with Sauce: Once the chicken is nearly done, brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken. Continue cooking for about 2 more minutes, turning a few times to avoid burning. You want that glaze to caramelize and shine!
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating: Marinating the chicken is essential for enhancing flavor. It allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, making it juicy and tender.
- Grill Temperature: Maintaining a medium to low heat prevents the chicken from burning while allowing it to cook evenly inside.
- Basting: Basting the chicken with the sauce during the last minutes of cooking not only adds flavor but also helps to form a nice glaze.
- Resting: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after taking it off the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
Ways to Customize
If you want to put a personal twist on BBQ Chicken, there are many ways to customize this classic dish. Here are some great ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Sweetness Variation: Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce and yellow mustard to fit your sweetness preference.
- Grilling Method: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Use a charcoal grill for a smoky flavor or try air frying for a crispier finish.
- Side Pairings: Serve BBQ Chicken with your favorite sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled veggies for a complete meal.
- Marinade Variations: Mix in herbs like rosemary or thyme in your marinade for additional flavors.
What to Serve Alongside BBQ Chicken
- Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy coleslaw pairs perfectly with the warm, smoky flavors of BBQ Chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn are excellent grilled alongside the chicken for a complete meal.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the tangy BBQ sauce beautifully.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve with fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the extra sauce.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can balance the bold flavors and provide a comforting side.
- Refreshing Drinks: Pair with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing complement to your summer BBQ meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of BBQ Chicken lies in its ability to bring people together, creating delicious memories with each bite. I encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re grilling in the summer sun or baking it in the oven during winter, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds. Don’t wait—grab your ingredients and get cooking tonight!
BBQ Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the chicken with seasoning salt and garlic powder. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or as long as overnight.
- In a small bowl combine the BBQ sauce, mustard, and about 2 tablespoons water to thin it out.
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat.
- Oil the grates and reduce heat to low. Grill the chicken, covered, turning often so they don’t burn, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through in the center, about 18 to 20 minutes.
- Brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken and cook, turning a few times until golden, careful not to burn, about 2 more minutes.
Notes
- To Air Fry: Oil the basket and air fry the chicken, turning halfway until golden brown and cooked through, about 20 to 22 minutes. Brush with BBQ sauce and cook for 1 to 2 more minutes.
- To bake drumsticks in oven: Bake at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 180°F for juiciest results.
