Grilled Chicken Thighs with Carolina BBQ Sauce

Name: Grilled Chicken Thighs with Carolina BBQ Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 pieces chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 cup yellow mustard; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste); 1 teaspoon garlic powder

55 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Juicy grilled chicken thighs coated in a tangy Carolina-style barbecue sauce.

Prep

15 min

Cook

30 min

Total

55 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Grilled chicken thighs are a staple of summer barbecues, offering the perfect balance of juicy meat and crispy skin. In this recipe, we take it up a notch by pairing them with a zesty Carolina-style barbecue sauce. Carolina BBQ sauce is known for its tangy and slightly spicy mustard base, which complements the rich flavour of grilled chicken. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a go-to for any BBQ enthusiast.

Instructions

Prepare the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 200°C (400°F). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Pro tip: Oil the grates using a paper towel soaked in oil.

Season the chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub them with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.

Pro tip: Drying the chicken skin helps it become crispy.

Prepare the sauce

In a saucepan, combine mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and set aside.

Pro tip: Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference.

Grill the chicken

Place chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

Baste with sauce

During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken thighs with the Carolina BBQ sauce. Turn occasionally to prevent burning.

Pro tip: Reserve some sauce for serving.

Rest and serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute.

💡

Tips & Tricks

For best results, marinate the chicken overnight.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest before serving for juicier meat.
Adjust the spiciness of the sauce to your preference.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best recipe for chicken thighs on the BBQ?

Grilled chicken thighs with Carolina-style BBQ sauce offer a perfect balance of tangy and spicy flavours, making this recipe a top choice.

How long should you grill chicken thighs?

Grill chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What temperature should chicken thighs be cooked to on the BBQ?

Chicken thighs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Should I marinate the chicken before grilling?

While not necessary, marinating the chicken can enhance flavour and tenderness. It's recommended to marinate overnight.

How do I prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?

Clean and oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled chicken thighs pair wonderfully with a fresh coleslaw or roasted corn on the cob. For a complete meal, serve them alongside mashed potatoes or a light garden salad. If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.

Nutrition per serving

350

Calories

25g

Protein

20g

Fat

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