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BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

Easy Home Cooking
These BBQ grilled chicken thighs are smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor thanks to a bold dry rub and sticky barbecue glaze. Perfect for weekend cookouts, backyard dinners, or game day gatherings!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3½ to 4 pounds bone-in skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks

Dry Rub:

  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp black pepper

BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions
 

  • Pat chicken dry and let sit at room temperature.
  • Mix dry rub and coat chicken thoroughly.
  • Preheat grill for two-zone heat.
  • Grill chicken over indirect heat, flipping every 10 min for 30–35 min.
  • Brush with BBQ sauce and grill until chicken reaches 175°F.
  • Rest and serve with extra sauce.
  • See full steps with tips & photos → https://wimpysdiner.net/bbq-grilled-chicken-thighs/

Notes

  • Two-Zone Setup: This method helps you avoid burning the sauce while ensuring tender meat inside.
  • Make It Spicier: Add cayenne to the rub or use a spicy BBQ sauce for extra heat.
  • No Grill? Bake at 400°F for 40–45 minutes, basting with sauce in the last 10 minutes.