When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly smoked BBQ chicken thigh. The tender meat, infused with the rich flavors of the sweet and tangy sauce, is the epitome of summer cooking. But why settle for just one flavor profile when you can try them all? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 mouth-watering smoky BBQ chicken thigh recipes that will elevate your grilling game.
From classic Honey Garlic to adventurous options like Mango Habanero and Korean BBQ-Style, each recipe has its own unique twist and flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for some inspiration for your next backyard bash, we’ve got you covered with these 18 smoky BBQ chicken thigh recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs
Satisfy your cravings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the tanginess of BBQ sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush with the honey-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sriracha BBQ Chicken Thighs
Add a spicy kick to your backyard BBQ with these mouthwatering chicken thighs smothered in a tangy Sriracha BBQ sauce. Perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush chicken with the Sriracha BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bourbon Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your barbecue game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of bourbon with the classic flavors of BBQ. These tender chicken thighs are smothered in a sticky glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with the bourbon glaze.
5. Grill or bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sticky Maple BBQ Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of barbecue sauce, creating a sticky and finger-licking good dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the sticky mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of honey, the tanginess of Dijon mustard, and the smokiness of BBQ sauce!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
5. During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush the BBQ sauce over the chicken.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Jerk-Style BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this Caribbean-inspired jerk seasoning, infusing tender chicken thighs with bold flavors. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing main course or as a snack for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice blend evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready to elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple, the tanginess of teriyaki sauce, and the smokiness of BBQ. This dish is sure to impress your friends and family!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and vegetable oil.
3. Add garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Add chicken thighs to the marinade; coat evenly.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Lime BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these smoky, tangy chicken thighs! This recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and lime juice for a unique twist on classic BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, chipotle peppers, and 1 tsp of BBQ sauce.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the lime-chipotle mixture evenly over both sides.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Brush remaining BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last 10 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Brown Sugar BBQ Chicken Thighs
This recipe brings together the richness of brown sugar and the tanginess of BBQ sauce to create a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, BBQ sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the brown sugar mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken thighs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean BBQ-Style Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) with the richness of soy sauce and brown sugar to create a mouthwatering chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Paprika BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your backyard barbecue with these smoky, tangy chicken thighs that blend the warmth of smoked paprika with the sweetness of homemade BBQ sauce. Perfect for a summer gathering or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup homemade BBQ sauce (see below)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush BBQ sauce onto the chicken.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Homemade BBQ Sauce (optional):
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container.
BBQ Ranch Chicken Thighs
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard gathering, these BBQ ranch chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser. With the tanginess of ranch dressing and the sweetness of barbecue sauce, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup ranch dressing
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the top of each thigh, followed by a drizzle of ranch dressing.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mango Habanero BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your BBQ game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the tropical flavors of mango with the heat of habanero peppers. These chicken thighs are perfect for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 habanero peppers, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mango, habanero peppers, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes per side, or bake in oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-22 minutes.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready to elevate your backyard barbecue game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of apple cider vinegar with the smokiness of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herb-Marinated BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these flavorful herb-marinated chicken thighs. The combination of aromatic herbs, tangy BBQ sauce, and tender chicken is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peach BBQ Glazed Chicken Thighs
Peach BBQ Glazed Chicken Thighs: Sweet and savory flavors come together in this deliciously easy recipe perfect for a summer evening or potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, BBQ sauce, honey, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Place chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
7. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mustard-Based BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this tangy and smoky recipe that combines the flavors of mustard, honey, and spices. Perfect for a summer cookout or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup yellow mustard
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with the mustard mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
5. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Coca-Cola BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your barbecue game with this unique recipe that combines the richness of Coca-Cola with the tender juiciness of chicken thighs. This sweet and savory twist is perfect for a summer cookout or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Coca-Cola, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 18 mouth-watering smoky BBQ chicken thigh recipes! From sweet and tangy to spicy and savory, this collection has something for every flavor profile. Try Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Thighs, Spicy Sriracha BBQ Chicken Thighs, Bourbon Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs, and many more. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or just looking for some inspiration, these recipes are sure to impress.
