BBQ Chicken

An easy BBQ Chicken recipe is the perfect dish for summer gatherings and family dinners. This five-ingredient delight results in juicy, charred chicken that pairs beautifully with your favorite sides. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving something delicious, this BBQ Chicken will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only five ingredients, you can whip up this BBQ Chicken in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of seasoning salt, garlic powder, and BBQ sauce creates a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as the main dish at any occasion or serve it alongside salads and sides for a complete meal.
• Perfectly Grilled: Achieve that beautiful char while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside.
• Customizable: Use your favorite BBQ sauce or mustard to tailor the flavors to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Outdoor grill
• Mixing bowl
• Grill brush
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Outdoor grill: Essential for achieving that smoky flavor and perfect grill marks on your chicken.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like BBQ sauce and mustard smoothly.
• Grill brush: Keeps your grates clean, ensuring even cooking without sticking.
• Basting brush: Perfect for applying the BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken while grilling.

Ingredients

An easy, 5-ingredient BBQ Chicken recipe comes out juicy, beautifully charred, and perfect for summer dinner!

Main Ingredients

• 8 chicken drumsticks (skin on, or off)
• 1 teaspoon seasoning salt (such as Lawry’s, or adobo seasoning)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 tablespoons BBQ sauce (homemade or store bought)
• 3 teaspoons yellow mustard

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Season chicken with seasoning salt and garlic powder.
2. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or as long as overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, mustard, and about 2 tablespoons of water to thin it out.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat.
2. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Reduce heat to low after preheating.
2. Grill the chicken covered, turning often so they don’t burn. Cook until golden brown and cooked through in the center (about 18 to 20 minutes).

Step 5: Add Final Touches

1. Brush the BBQ sauce mixture evenly over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Continue grilling, turning occasionally until golden (about 2 more minutes).

How to Serve BBQ Chicken

Serving BBQ Chicken can elevate any summer gathering. With its smoky flavor and juicy texture, this dish pairs well with various sides and beverages.

Fresh Salads

• Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw complements the richness of the chicken.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a refreshing touch.
• Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad balances the grilled flavors perfectly.

Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers – Tossed in olive oil and grilled for a smoky addition.
• Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn grilled to perfection is a classic summer pairing.

Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch is great for dipping chicken or veggies.
• Hot Sauce – For those who love an extra kick, hot sauce adds heat and flavor.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken

To achieve the perfect BBQ Chicken, consider these essential tips.

• Marinate Well – Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Preheat the Grill – A hot grill ensures even cooking and nice char marks.
• Use Oil on Grates – Oiling prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Turn Frequently – Regularly turning the chicken prevents burning while ensuring even cooking.
• Check Internal Temperature – Ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing the chicken to rest helps juices redistribute for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken

When serving BBQ Chicken, selecting the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread – A slightly sweet bread that pairs beautifully with savory flavors.
2. Baked Beans – Rich and hearty beans add a comforting element to your plate.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a fresh crunch that balances the meal.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese is always a favorite at summer gatherings.
5. Fruit Salad – A medley of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
6. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover BBQ sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BBQ Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow at least one hour for the seasoning to penetrate.

• Using High Heat: Grilling on high heat can cause the outside to burn while leaving the inside undercooked. Stick to medium heat for even cooking.

• Neglecting Basting: Not basting your chicken with BBQ sauce can result in a dry texture. Brush the sauce on during the last few minutes of cooking for added moisture and flavor.

• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many chicken pieces on the grill at once can trap steam and prevent proper browning. Give each piece space to cook evenly.

• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking without checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Chicken

• Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel and heat in short intervals until warm, about 2-3 minutes.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce, then add chicken. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about BBQ Chicken that may help you further understand this tasty dish.

Can I use other cuts of chicken for BBQ Chicken?

Yes, you can use other cuts like thighs or breasts, but adjust cooking times accordingly since they vary in thickness.

What’s the best type of BBQ sauce to use?

The best BBQ sauce depends on personal preference. You can choose between sweet, smoky, or spicy sauces based on your taste.

How do I know when my BBQ Chicken is done?

BBQ Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is a great tool for this.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance and grill it when ready. This enhances the flavor further.

Final Thoughts

This easy BBQ Chicken recipe is perfect for summer dinners and gatherings. Its simplicity allows room for customization; feel free to experiment with different spices and sauces! Enjoy juicy, flavorful drumsticks that everyone will love at your next barbecue!