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Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.3 from 84 reviews

Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs feature tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs seasoned and cooked low and slow on the grill. They are basted with a homemade spicy barbecue sauce made from butter, onions, garlic, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, sriracha, and other flavorful spices that create a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and heat. This recipe yields juicy, flavorful chicken ideal for casual BBQ gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken

  • 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

For the Spicy BBQ Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp sriracha
  • 2 tsp hot chili paste (sambal oelek, or substitute sriracha)
  • 1/2 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spicy BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped onions. Cook until the onions become tender and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Then add apple cider vinegar, water, ketchup, paprika, sriracha, hot chili paste, chili powder, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a low simmer. Let it cook gently for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside for basting later.
  2. Season the Chicken Thighs: Pat the chicken thighs dry. Rub olive oil all over the chicken and season evenly with salt and black pepper on all sides to enhance flavor and promote even grilling.
  3. Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-low heat. This lower temperature will allow for a slow, even cook that ensures juicy and tender chicken rather than drying it out.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill smooth side down first. Grill the chicken slowly, turning every 3 to 4 minutes. Continue this process for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches between 165-170°F and the juices run clear, indicating doneness.
  5. Baste with Spicy BBQ Sauce: During the last few turns of grilling, generously baste the chicken thighs with the homemade spicy BBQ sauce. This adds layers of flavor and creates a beautiful glaze on the surface of the chicken.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked through and nicely glazed, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices. Serve warm with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

Notes

  • You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs offer more moisture and flavor.
  • Adjust the amount of sriracha and chili paste to control the spice level according to your taste preference.
  • The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • For charcoal grilling, maintain low and even heat for best results.
  • Always use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature.

Keywords: BBQ chicken thighs, grilled chicken, spicy BBQ sauce, summer grilling, boneless chicken, backyard barbecue

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/grilled-spicy-bbq-chicken-thighs-recipe/