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Crispy Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs with Smoky Glaze

crispy grilled BBQ chicken thighs - featured image
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This recipe delivers crispy grilled chicken thighs with a smoky, slightly sweet glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings, it combines bold flavors with an irresistible crispy skin.

Ingredients

  • Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • Olive oil
  • Smoked paprika
  • Brown sugar
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Chili powder
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Rub each piece with a thin coat of olive oil.
  2. Season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder, making sure to get under the skin where possible.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and honey until smooth and combined. Adjust thickness with a splash of water if needed.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 7-8 minutes without moving to develop a crispy crust.
  6. Flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes on the other side.
  7. Brush the smoky glaze onto the chicken thighs. Flip and glaze the other side. Continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes, flipping and glazing every couple of minutes to build a sticky, caramelized coating. Watch for flare-ups.
  8. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). If needed, move to indirect heat and cook gently until done.
  9. Remove from grill and rest on a wire rack or plate for 5 minutes to let juices redistribute and keep skin crisp.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure crispy skin. Apply glaze multiple times toward the end of grilling to build a sticky coating. Watch for flare-ups caused by dripping fat. If glaze thickens too much, thin with apple cider vinegar or water. Rest chicken after grilling to keep juices locked in. For gluten-free, use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or tamari. For vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup and use plant-based chicken alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken thighs, grilled chicken, smoky glaze, crispy chicken skin, backyard BBQ, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/crispy-grilled-bbq-chicken-thighs-recipe-perfect-smoky-glaze-guide/