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BBQ Chicken

BBQ Chicken


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including marinating; overnight recommended)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Easy BBQ Chicken delivers irresistible smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors with juicy tenderness. This simple yet versatile recipe uses straightforward ingredients and natural grilling techniques to produce perfectly moist chicken that pleases any crowd, ideal for casual dinners, weekend gatherings, or festive family meals.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts – about 3 pounds

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (such as pectin or agar)

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder for spicy kick
  • 1/4 cup grape juice (natural) for enhanced sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary or thyme, chopped for herb-infused flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked salt or 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (natural) for smoky depth

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder (natural), onion powder (natural), salt, black pepper, and natural gelling agent until fully combined. This flavorful marinade is the secret to tender, flavorful chicken.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate and the marinade to cling perfectly.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high for a hot surface that sears the chicken and locks in juices. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and create perfect grill marks.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste occasionally with reserved marinade to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices. Serve warm with your favorite sides and garnishes for a complete family meal.

Notes

  • Choose bone-in thighs for best moisture retention and flavor.
  • The longer you marinate, the more intense and tender the chicken.
  • Keep grill grates lightly oiled to prevent sticking and create caramelized grill marks.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
  • Rest chicken before serving to lock in juices and improve texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 3-4 oz cooked chicken)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: BBQ chicken, grilled chicken, easy barbecue recipe, family meal, smoky chicken, gluten free BBQ, plant-based marinade