Get ready for some juicy chicken thighs that shine with a sticky and spicy BBQ sauce! The chicken is marinated to soak up all that flavor and grilled to perfection for a smoky taste.
I love how this dish brings the heat without being too overwhelming. Serve it with some rice or coleslaw, and you’re in for a treat! Who can resist finger-licking goodness? 🍗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Skin-on, bone-in thighs provide great flavor and moisture. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out quicker. Thighs are definitely my favorite for grilling!
BBQ Sauce: Spicy BBQ sauce is ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find it, a regular BBQ sauce with added hot sauce works too. You can even make your own by mixing ketchup with spices.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze. Maple syrup can be a good substitute if you’re looking for a different flavor or a vegan option.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as substitutes. Just keep the amounts similar.
Cayenne Pepper: Adjust the amount to your spice preference! If you want less heat, use paprika or leave it out. You can also use chili powder for a different kind of kick.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into your chicken. Follow these steps for fantastic results:
- Mix your marinade ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
- Place your chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl, then pour the marinade over them. Make sure they’re thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate. The longer it marinates, the better—aim for at least 2 hours or overnight if you can manage it!
Don’t forget: always remove the chicken from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to let it come to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly!
How to Make Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 8 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably spicy)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 2 hours for marinating. When you add grilling time, plan for around 30 minutes total for cooking. So overall, you’ll need at least 2 hours and 45 minutes to have these delicious sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a bowl and mixing together the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until it’s blended into a nice, smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put your chicken thighs into a large resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is covered completely. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with a lid. Now, it’s time for the magic—put it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours, or if you can, let it sit overnight for even more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to start grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for two-zone cooking. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any extra liquid drip off (you can keep the leftover marinade for basting). Now, place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, then flip them over to the other side and grill for another 5-7 minutes, occasionally basting with the reserved marinade. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken has a nice char to it.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This gives the juices a chance to settle back in. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely touch. Pair your sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so keep an eye on them—grill for about 4-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Just be cautious, as they can dry out more quickly than bone-in thighs.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of ketchup and hot sauce. For added flavor, blend in some spices like Worcestershire sauce or molasses. This will give you that sweet and spicy flavor profile similar to BBQ sauce!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or in a skillet to keep that juiciness intact. If you want to store for longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Can I Bake These Chicken Thighs Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the marinated thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, basting halfway through, until they reach the desired internal temperature and get a nice caramelization on the skin.
