Grilled BBQ Chicken

Juicy, smoky, and perfectly charred, this Grilled BBQ Chicken is a backyard BBQ classic. Slathered in a rich, tangy barbecue sauce, the chicken leg quarters are seasoned with a bold spice blend and grilled to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a summer cookout or a casual family dinner, this recipe delivers delicious, tender chicken with incredible flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky & Flavorful – A perfect blend of spices and BBQ sauce for a rich, smoky taste.
• Juicy & Tender – Cooking on the grill locks in moisture for a juicy bite every time.
• Easy to Make – Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this an effortless meal.
• Perfect for BBQ Season – A great addition to any cookout or backyard gathering.
• Customizable Heat – Adjust the spice level with more or less cayenne pepper.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 chicken leg quarters
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat Grill – Heat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F–400°F). If using an oven, preheat to 400°F.
2. Season the Chicken – In a small bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken leg quarters.
3. Grill the Chicken – Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down, and cook for about 10-12 minutes until crispy. Flip and cook for another 10-12 minutes.
4. Add BBQ Sauce – Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on both sides, then cook for another 5-7 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest & Serve – Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Chicken – Increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
• Sweet & Smoky – Mix in a tablespoon of brown sugar to the spice rub for a hint of sweetness.
• Oven-Baked Option – Bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes.
• Boneless Alternative – Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for quicker cooking.
• Extra Smoky Flavor – Add wood chips to the grill for a deeper smoky taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage – Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating – Warm in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing – Freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of leg quarters?

Yes! Adjust cooking time to 6-7 minutes per side since breasts cook faster.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Cooking over medium heat and brushing with BBQ sauce helps keep the chicken moist.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best, but use any favorite brand or homemade sauce.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! Season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Should I grill with the lid open or closed?

Keep the lid closed while grilling to maintain even heat.

Can I cook this chicken on a gas or charcoal grill?

Yes! Both work well. Charcoal grills provide a smokier flavor, while gas grills offer better heat control.

How do I prevent the BBQ sauce from burning?

Brush it on in the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to prevent burning.

What side dishes go well with BBQ chicken?

Coleslaw, cornbread, potato salad, mac and cheese, or grilled vegetables are great options.

Can I marinate the chicken before grilling?

Yes! Marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce and seasonings for up to 12 hours for extra flavor.

Conclusion

This Grilled BBQ Chicken is a smoky, juicy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any backyard BBQ. With a simple spice rub and a generous coating of barbecue sauce, this recipe creates tender, caramelized chicken that will be a hit at any gathering. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a classic summer favorite!