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Easy Juicy BBQ Chicken

Easy BBQ chicken with smoky, caramelized BBQ sauce glaze and tender juicy chicken from indirect grilling. Seasoned chicken gets basted during the final minutes for a sticky, flavorful finish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken pieces
  • 4 lb chicken pieces legs, thighs, breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 salt and pepper to taste
BBQ sauce glaze
  • 2 cup BBQ sauce your favorite
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Equipment

  • 1 grill

Method
 

Season the chicken
  1. Pat the chicken dry, then rub with olive oil and season evenly with salt and pepper.
  2. Place the seasoned chicken aside while you prepare the BBQ glaze.
Make the BBQ glaze
  1. Mix BBQ sauce with apple cider vinegar and smoked paprika until smooth and evenly combined.
Grill over indirect heat
  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat (350-400°F).
  2. Grill the chicken over indirect heat for 30-35 minutes, turning every 10 minutes for even cooking.
Glaze, caramelize, and finish
  1. During the last 10 minutes, brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce and move it to direct heat.
  2. Continue grilling and basting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the sauce is caramelized.
Rest and serve
  1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

Notes

For maximum juiciness, avoid piercing the chicken while turning; use a thermometer and pull right at 165°F for tender results. Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days (freezing: yes, up to 2 months). For a lighter option, use a no-sugar-added BBQ sauce if desired.