Grilled chicken was the first thing I ever learned to cook on my own. I was twelve, standing on a step stool next to my daddy at the grill, completely terrified of the flames. Now it’s second nature, and this sticky BBQ version is what I make when I want something that feels like home. My kids fight over the crispy bits every single time.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (or 2 lbs drumsticks)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
Instructions
- Season chicken: Pat dry, rub with oil, season with salt, garlic, paprika, pepper.
- Preheat grill: Medium-high heat (400°F). Oil grates well.
- Grill: Place chicken skin-side down. Grill 6-7 min per side until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Glaze: Last 5 minutes, brush generously with BBQ sauce, flip and repeat.
- Rest: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve: With extra sauce on the side!
Pro Tips
- Don’t sauce too early — sugar burns!
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
- Let chicken come to room temp before grilling
