15 BBQ Chicken Recipes for Your Next Cookout

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Hey there, grill masters and chicken lovers! Craving some smoky, tangy goodness? You’re in luck because we’re about to sizzle up some mouthwatering BBQ chicken recipes that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

Get ready to fire up that grill and impress your friends and family with these finger-lickin’ good dishes. From classic flavors to unique twists, we’ve got something for everyone.

So grab your apron, and let’s turn up the heat on your backyard cookout game!

1. Classic BBQ Chicken

There’s something magical about Classic BBQ Chicken, isn’t there? Picture yourself enjoying a sunny afternoon, the tantalizing aroma of barbecue sauce wafting through the air, and that perfect bite of juicy, flavorful chicken. This recipe brings together the quintessential smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of a traditional barbecue, making it a crowd-pleaser at any cookout.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken breasts.
  3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Brush BBQ sauce generously on the chicken and cook for another 20 minutes, basting and turning frequently until fully cooked and charred in spots.
  5. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Coleslaw and cornbread
Drink with: Iced tea or a cold lager

2. Honey BBQ Chicken

Honey BBQ Chicken is where sweet meets savory in a delightful dance of flavors. The sticky honey glaze perfectly complements the smoky barbecue sauce, creating a juicy, finger-licking good dish that’s bound to be a hit at your next family gathering.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Mix BBQ sauce and honey in a bowl.
  3. Season chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  4. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  5. Brush the honey BBQ sauce on the chicken and continue grilling for another 15 minutes, basting frequently.
  6. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Grilled vegetables and potato salad
Drink with: Lemonade or a crisp white wine

3. Spicy Grilled BBQ Chicken

For those who crave a little heat, Spicy Grilled BBQ Chicken is the ultimate treat. With a kick of spice from hot sauce and cayenne pepper, this recipe turns up the flavor dial, creating a fiery and flavorful dish that’s perfect for adventurous palates.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and place on the grill.
  4. Cook for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  5. Brush the spicy BBQ sauce on the chicken and grill for another 10 minutes, basting frequently.
  6. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Jalapeño cornbread and coleslaw
Drink with: A cold beer or margarita

4. BBQ Chicken Wings

BBQ Chicken Wings are the ultimate finger food for any gathering. Coated in a rich, flavorful barbecue sauce, these wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill or oven, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place wings on the grill or in the oven and cook for 20 minutes.
  4. Brush BBQ sauce on the wings and cook for another 10 minutes, basting frequently.
  5. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side.

Serve with: Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing
Drink with: Cold beer or soda

5. Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken brings a bold, smoky flavor to your barbecue lineup. The chipotle peppers add a depth of flavor that’s both spicy and savory, creating a dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp chipotle in adobo sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Mix BBQ sauce with chipotle in adobo sauce.
  3. Season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Grill chicken for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  5. Brush the chipotle BBQ sauce on the chicken and grill for another 20 minutes, basting frequently.
  6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Grilled corn on the cob and coleslaw
Drink with: Craft beer or iced tea

6. BBQ Chicken Pizza

BBQ Chicken Pizza combines the best of both worlds: the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce and the cheesy goodness of pizza. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, this pizza is always a hit.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Oven, Baking sheet or pizza stone
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 1 pizza dough
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
  2. Roll out the pizza dough and place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
  3. Spread BBQ sauce over the dough.
  4. Top with shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, and red onion.
  5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Serve with: A side salad
Drink with: Root beer or a light red wine

7. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a classic choice for any barbecue. They’re easy to eat, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. The secret is in the sauce, which caramelizes beautifully as the drumsticks cook.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 8 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Season drumsticks with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Place drumsticks on the grill and cook for 25 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Brush BBQ sauce on the drumsticks and grill for another 10 minutes, basting frequently.
  5. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Baked beans and potato salad
Drink with: Lemonade or beer

8. Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken

Sweet and Tangy BBQ Chicken offers a delightful balance of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. The sweetness of the honey and brown sugar pairs perfectly with the tanginess of vinegar and mustard, creating a mouthwatering dish.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp mustard
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Mix BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  3. Grill chicken breasts for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Brush the sweet and tangy BBQ sauce on the chicken and grill for another 15 minutes, basting frequently.
  5. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Grilled vegetables and coleslaw
Drink with: Iced tea or a fruity beer

9. BBQ Chicken Tacos

BBQ Chicken Tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, fresh toppings, and a soft tortilla creates a delicious, handheld meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Equipment: Grill, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 8 small tortillas
  • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill chicken breasts for 15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  3. Brush BBQ sauce on the chicken and grill for another 5 minutes.
  4. Slice the grilled chicken and assemble tacos with tortillas, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
  5. Serve with lime wedges.

Serve with: Mexican rice and black beans
Drink with: Margarita or a cold beer

10. Pineapple BBQ Chicken Skewers

Pineapple BBQ Chicken Skewers are a tropical delight that brings a burst of sweet and smoky flavors. The combination of juicy chicken and caramelized pineapple chunks makes these skewers a hit at any summer gathering.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Skewers
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Thread chicken and pineapple chunks onto skewers.
  3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. Grill skewers for 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
  5. Brush with BBQ sauce and grill for another 5 minutes.
  6. Serve hot off the grill.

Serve with: Rice pilaf and a green salad
Drink with: Pina colada or iced tea

11. Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs

Sticky BBQ Chicken Thighs are packed with flavor and oh-so-tender. The sticky BBQ glaze clings to the chicken, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a big family feast.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Season chicken thighs with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill chicken for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Brush with a mixture of BBQ sauce and honey, and grill for another 15 minutes, basting frequently.
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Mashed potatoes and green beans
Drink with: Sweet tea or a red ale

12. BBQ Chicken Sandwiches

BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food. Piled high with shredded BBQ chicken and topped with coleslaw, these sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill or slow cooker
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 1 cup coleslaw
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or use a slow cooker.
  2. Season chicken breasts with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill for 20 minutes or cook in the slow cooker for 4 hours on low.
  4. Shred the chicken and mix with BBQ sauce.
  5. Assemble sandwiches with shredded BBQ chicken and coleslaw on hamburger buns.

Serve with: Potato chips and pickles
Drink with: Soda or iced tea

13. Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken

Maple Bourbon BBQ Chicken is a sophisticated take on a barbecue favorite. The rich, smoky flavors of bourbon and the sweetness of maple syrup create a decadent glaze that turns simple chicken into a gourmet delight.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp bourbon
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Mix BBQ sauce, maple syrup, bourbon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill chicken breasts for 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Brush with maple bourbon BBQ sauce and grill for another 15 minutes, basting frequently.
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli
Drink with: Bourbon cocktail or a glass of white wine

14. Asian BBQ Chicken

Asian BBQ Chicken combines the best of barbecue with the bold flavors of Asian cuisine. The marinade features soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, creating a savory and slightly sweet dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-American
Equipment: Grill, Basting brush, Tongs
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Mix soy sauce, BBQ sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Marinate chicken thighs in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Grill chicken for 25 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the marinade.
  5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serve with: Jasmine rice and steamed vegetables
Drink with: Green tea or a light beer

15. BBQ Chicken Salad

BBQ Chicken Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Packed with colorful veggies and topped with juicy BBQ chicken, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill chicken for 15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Brush with BBQ sauce and grill for another 5 minutes.
  5. Slice the grilled chicken and assemble the salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, red onion, shredded cheese, and ranch dressing.
  6. Top with sliced BBQ chicken.

Serve with: Crusty bread
Drink with: Iced tea or lemonade

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