How to Make the Perfect The Ultimate Grilled BBQ Chicken That’s Juicy and Flavor-Packed
American BBQ · Easy · 45 minutes min · 4 servings

This grilled BBQ chicken recipe is marinated to perfection and packed with layers of flavor for a summer feast.
Why this recipe works
This The Ultimate Grilled BBQ Chicken That’s Juicy and Flavor-Packed recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 400 calories with 38g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 14 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 pieces chicken thighs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 lime for garnish
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine buttermilk, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add chicken, cover, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat Grill
Heat grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, brushing with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes.
Step 4: Check for Doneness
Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before garnishing with cilantro and lime. Serve warm.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- chicken thighs → chicken breasts
- buttermilk → plain yogurt
- BBQ sauce → homemade marinade
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not marinating long enough for flavor.
- Flipping the chicken too often while grilling.
- Not letting the chicken rest before serving.
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 400 calories, 38g protein, 10g carbs, 24g fat, 1g fiber.
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