There’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma of barbecued chicken wafting through the air on a warm summer evening. The flavors of smoky char and sweet barbecue sauce meld together to create a dish that’s perfect for gatherings with family and friends. This recipe for “Best BBQ Chicken” is a simple yet delicious take on the classic dish, guaranteed to be a hit at your next cookout!
**Best BBQ Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Grill:** Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect char on the outside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up nicely on the grill. Season the chicken all over with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. **Oil the Grill Grates:** Using tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in oil, lightly grease the grill grates. This prevents the chicken from sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
4. **Grill the Chicken:** Once the grill is hot, place the chicken pieces skin-side down on the grill. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This initial sear creates a nice crust and locks in the juices.
5. **Flip and Baste:** Carefully flip the chicken pieces using tongs. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the cooked side of the chicken. Close the grill lid and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
6. **Monitor and Rotate:** Keep an eye on the chicken to prevent burning. Rotate the pieces as needed for even cooking. Baste the chicken with more barbecue sauce every time you flip it.
7. **Check for Doneness:** To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) for chicken to be safe to eat.
8. **Rest and Serve:** Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a clean platter and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
9. **Enjoy Your BBQ Chicken:** Serve your delicious barbecue chicken hot off the grill alongside your favorite sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or potato salad. It’s the perfect dish for a casual backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner.
Get ready to impress your guests with this easy and flavorful BBQ chicken recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your summertime cooking repertoire. Happy grilling!
