🍗 Best BBQ Chicken Recipe (Simple, Juicy & Full of Flavor!)

Looking for the best BBQ chicken recipe? Juicy, flavorful, and easy to make, you’ve landed in the right spot! Whether you’re grilling, baking, or broiling, this simple recipe will give you tender, delicious chicken every single time. Plus, I’ll share a homemade BBQ sauce that takes this dish to a whole new level!

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor!
  • Juicy and Tender: Perfectly cooked every time.
  • Versatile: Great for grilling, oven baking, or even air frying.
  • Homemade BBQ Sauce: Sweet, smoky, and customizable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • Chicken thighs, drumsticks, or breasts
  • BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper

👉 Scroll down for full measurements and instructions!

How to Make BBQ Chicken

  1. Season the Chicken:
    Pat your chicken dry and season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Optional Sear:
    For extra flavor, quickly sear your chicken in a hot skillet with a little olive oil.
  3. Add the BBQ Sauce:
    Brush your chicken all over with your favorite BBQ sauce.
  4. Bake or Grill:
    • Oven: Bake at 375°F for 30–45 minutes (depending on cut and size).
    • Grill: Grill over medium heat, turning and basting with more BBQ sauce, until cooked through.
  5. Broil for Perfection:
    Finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes to get that caramelized, sticky goodness.

Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

Want to make your own? Here’s a quick BBQ sauce recipe you’ll love:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Spices: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne

Instructions:
Mix everything in a saucepan, simmer for 10–15 minutes, and you’re done!

Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken

  • Always use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach 165°F.
  • Don’t skimp on the sauce — baste multiple times for layers of flavor.
  • Let your chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices.

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken

  • Cornbread
  • Corn
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Grilled veggies
  • Mac and cheese
  • Coleslaw
  • Potato salad

This easy BBQ chicken recipe is perfect for family dinners, summer cookouts, or a quick weeknight meal. Once you try it with the homemade sauce, you’ll never go back to store-bought! 🧡

Don’t forget to share this recipe and pin it for later if you love it!

Leave a Comment