BBQ chicken thighs

Here’s a classic BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe — juicy, flavorful, and perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying. Chicken thighs are ideal for BBQ because they stay moist and absorb flavor beautifully.

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🍗 BBQ Chicken Thighs

🍽️ Serves: 4–6

🕐 Cook Time:

• Grill: 25–30 minutes

• Oven: 35–45 minutes

• Air Fryer: 20–25 minutes

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🧂 Ingredients:

• 2.5–3 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

🔥 Dry Rub (optional but recommended):

• 1 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

🍯 BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite store-bought or homemade)

• Optional: Mix with 1 tbsp honey or apple cider vinegar for added sweetness or tang

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🔥 Cooking Methods:

1. Grilled BBQ Chicken Thighs:

1. Pat chicken dry. Rub with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and dry rub.

2. Preheat grill to medium heat (375–400°F / 190–200°C).

3. Grill thighs skin-side down for 5–6 minutes to sear.

4. Flip and cook another 15–20 minutes, covered, turning occasionally.

5. Brush with BBQ sauce in the last 5–10 minutes, flipping and brushing again.

6. Cook to an internal temp of 175–185°F for juicy thighs.

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2. Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Thighs:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Rub chicken with oil, seasoning, and dry rub.

3. Place on a baking rack over a foil-lined tray.

4. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until internal temp hits 165°F.

5. Brush with BBQ sauce and bake another 10 minutes, or broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize.

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3. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Thighs:

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. Season chicken and place in basket skin-side down (don’t overcrowd).

3. Cook for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 8–10 minutes.

4. Brush with BBQ sauce and air fry 3–4 more minutes until caramelized.

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🧊 Tips:

• Bone-in, skin-on thighs give best flavor and moisture.

• Use thermometer: aim for 175°F internal temp for thighs (they’re best a little above 165°F).

• Add a little smoked paprika or liquid smoke to BBQ sauce for extra smoky flavor.

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🍽️ What to Serve With:

• Cornbread or grilled corn

• Coleslaw or potato salad

• Mac & cheese

• Baked beans

• Pickles or pickled onions for a tangy contrast