Name: Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs: A Flavor Party Awaits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (Main protein source); 2 tablespoons olive oil (For coating chicken); 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor); 1 teaspoon black pepper (Adds depth); 2 tablespoons butter (For richness); 1 medium yellow onion (Finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (Minced for even distribution); 1 cup apple cider vinegar (Balancing acidity); 1 cup water (Adjust consistency); 1 cup ketchup (Base of BBQ sauce); 1 tablespoon paprika (For smokiness); 1 tablespoon sriracha (For heat); 1 tablespoon hot chili paste (Intensifies spiciness); 1 teaspoon chili powder (Enhances flavor); 1 tablespoon mustard (Adds tanginess); 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (Deepens flavor)

“Why settle for bland when you can spice things up?” I overheard a friend exclaim at a backyard barbecue, sparking the inspiration for my Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs. Juicy, tender chicken thighs slathered in a homemade spicy barbecue sauce not only make a mouthwatering centerpiece for any gathering, but they are also easy to prepare, ensuring you can wow your guests without breaking a sweat. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe brings the flavor while keeping things simple—perfect for those sunny weekends when fast food just won’t cut it. Ready to transform your summer outdoor cookouts? Let’s dive into what makes these chicken thighs an irresistible choice!

Why Choose Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these chicken thighs offers a juicy, spicy kick that makes your taste buds dance.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, anyone can master grilling and sauce-making, perfect for beginners.
Crowd-Pleaser: Impress family and friends at your next BBQ with a meal that’s sure to be the highlight of the evening.
Versatile Pairing: Serve with grilled veggies or a refreshing coleslaw for a well-rounded feast.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the sauce in advance to enhance its flavors—easy peasy!

You’ll be excited to serve up these delicious Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs, and they’ll surely steal the show. If you’re looking for other tasty options to enhance your grill game, consider trying out Korean Spicy Chicken or a flavorful Honey Pepper Chicken.

Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs Ingredients

• Unlock the secrets to flavor!

For the Chicken

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein source, delivering unmatched flavor and tenderness.
Olive Oil – Helps keep the chicken moist and aids in seasoning adherence.
Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Black Pepper – Adds a subtle depth and mild heat, perfect for balancing flavors.

For the BBQ Sauce

Butter – Brings richness to the sauce for a velvety texture.
Yellow Onion – Sautéed for sweetness, finely chop it for a smooth sauce.
Garlic – Adds aromatic flavor; be sure to mince it finely for even distribution.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Offers acidity that beautifully balances the sauce’s sweetness.
Water – Adjusts the consistency of the sauce as needed.
Ketchup – The base of the BBQ sauce, providing sweetness and thickness.
Paprika – Infuses smokiness and vibrant color into your sauce.
Sriracha – Adds heat and tang; if you prefer a milder option, substitute with Sambal Oelek.
Hot Chili Paste – Intensifies the spicy flavor to amp up your grilling experience.
Chili Powder – Enhances the flavor profile with a warm kick.
Mustard – Incorporates tanginess to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce – Deepens the flavor of the BBQ sauce, giving it that extra oomph.

You’re just a few steps away from whipping up these delightful Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs that will transport your taste buds straight to flavor paradise! Enjoy the grilling adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Make the BBQ Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sauté 1 finely chopped yellow onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, stirring for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the remaining sauce ingredients—1 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and spices. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, allowing it to thicken. Once done, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the BBQ sauce simmers, take 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Coat the chicken generously with olive oil, then sprinkle salt and black pepper evenly over both sides. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat, aiming for a stable temperature of 300-350°F (149-177°C) to ensure even cooking without burning.

Step 3: Start Grilling
Once the grill is ready, place the chicken thighs smooth side down on the grill grates. Grill for about 6-7 minutes without moving them, allowing for nice grill marks. Make sure to keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat and ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly.

Step 4: Flip and Baste
Carefully flip the chicken thighs using tongs, and grill the other side for another 6-7 minutes. Make sure to check for juices running clear. During the last few flips, baste the chicken generously with your spicy BBQ sauce using a brush. This will create a delicious sticky glaze that enhances the flavor of your Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs.

Step 5: Check Doneness
After a total grilling time of about 15-20 minutes, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The ideal temperature should reach 165-170°F (74-77°C) for safe consumption. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once rested, plate your juicy grilled chicken thighs and drizzle a bit more of the spicy BBQ sauce on top for an extra kick. Pair with your favorite sides—grilled vegetables or coleslaw make a delightful combination. Enjoy the flavorful results of your Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs with family and friends!

Expert Tips for Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption and optimal juiciness.

Baste Wisely: Apply BBQ sauce only in the last few minutes of cooking to avoid burning and achieve the perfect glaze on your grilled spicy BBQ chicken thighs.

Adjust Grill Heat: Maintain a medium-low heat for even cooking; too high can scorch the sauce and undercook the chicken.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality chicken thighs and ingredients for the BBQ sauce to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Let Chicken Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices, ensuring every bite is as succulent as possible.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can make the spicy BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to enhance the flavors. The chicken thighs can be marinated with olive oil, salt, and pepper up to 3 days ahead, wrapped tightly to prevent drying. When you’re ready to grill, simply take the chicken out of the marinade, allow it to come to room temperature, and proceed with grilling as instructed. This approach ensures your chicken remains juicy and full of flavor, ready to impress your dinner guests!

Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs Variations

Customize your experience with a twist that tantalizes your taste buds, making each bite a new adventure!

Bone-In Thighs: Swap boneless thighs for bone-in for deeper flavor, just adjust the cooking time slightly longer.
Homemade Tomato Sauce: Replace ketchup with a homemade tomato sauce for a fresh and personalized BBQ flavor—delightful!
Chili Sauce Swap: Use a different chili sauce for varying heat levels; try a milder option for those sensitive to spice.
Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to create a richer, smokier barbecue sauce. Perfect for BBQ fanatics!
Sweet Twist: Drizzle honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweet contrast; the sweetness balances perfectly with the spicy notes.
Add Herbs: Infuse chopped fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley, during the last moments of cooking for a refreshing herbaceous flair.
Veggie Grilling: Toss some sliced bell peppers or zucchini on the grill alongside the chicken for a colorful, nutritious addition.
Spicy Rub: For extra heat, create a spice rub with chili powder and cayenne to coat the chicken before grilling, intensifying the flavor.

Feel free to explore these variations and make this scrumptious dish your own! If you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t miss out on trying the delightful Cowboy Butter Chicken or the exotic flavors of Chicken Enchiladas Comfort. Happy grilling!

What to Serve with Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Elevate your summer gathering with these irresistible chicken thighs by complementing them with delicious sides that engage all your senses.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crisp, refreshing crunch of coleslaw beautifully contrasts the spicy richness of the chicken, offering a cool palate cleanser after each bite.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, grilled corn enhances the BBQ flavor, adding a touch of summer nostalgia to your feast.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies like bell peppers and zucchini bring a savory depth and natural sweetness that pairs well with the spice.
Baked Beans: The sweetness and hearty texture of baked beans provide a comforting companion, adding a classic BBQ vibe to your meal.
Cornbread: Soft, buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up leftover sauce, delivering a warm, satisfying contrast to spicy chicken.
Potato Salad: This creamy classic rounds out the meal with a rich texture, balancing the heat of the chicken while inviting everyone back for more.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, citrusy drink that refreshes the palate and enhances the overall experience with its bright, zesty notes.

With these delightful pairings, your grilled spicy BBQ chicken thighs will shine even brighter, creating a memorable meal that brings everyone together.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Fridge: Keep any leftover grilled spicy BBQ chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Ensure they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before reheating; warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the BBQ sauce ahead of time, storing it in the fridge for up to a week, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully before grilling the chicken.

Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless skinless chicken thighs, look for ones that are plump and moist with a deep pink color. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or a slimy texture, as these may indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftovers of grilled spicy BBQ chicken thighs?
Very! Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. It’s always best to cool them completely before sealing.

Can I freeze grilled spicy BBQ chicken thighs?
Of course! To freeze, let the chicken cool down, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, with as much air removed as possible. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat grilled chicken thighs without drying them out?
Great question! For the best results, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge. When you’re ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet and cover them with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Can I make the BBQ sauce in advance?
Absolutely! I often make the BBQ sauce a day in advance. Store it in an airtight jar and keep it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making your sauce even tastier for grilling!

Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Very! If you need to consider dietary restrictions, make sure to check the labels of your ingredients. You can easily substitute the Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free version if you’re avoiding gluten, and opt for sugar-free ketchup if sugar is a concern. If you have any very specific allergies or if you’re cooking for someone else, always confirm with them before serving.