This Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken is a crowd-pleaser! With a sweet and spicy sauce, it’s perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs are my favorite because they stay juicy and flavorful. You can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster.
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought is quick and easy, but making your own gives you control over the flavor. If you want less sugar, go for a sugar-free BBQ sauce or a homemade version with tomato paste and vinegar.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both create that delicious sticky glaze. If you’re avoiding sugar, try maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for sweetness.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the heat to your liking. If you prefer mild flavors, use just a little or skip it altogether. Sriracha or a mild chili sauce can be great alternatives.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth. If you’re out, regular paprika works but won’t have that smoky flavor. You can also play around with spices like cumin or cayenne for different tastes.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked and Sticky?
The key to juicy, sticky chicken is all in the cooking technique. Make sure to preheat your grill or oven properly so the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help:
- Before cooking, pat the chicken dry – this helps the skin crisp up.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Frequent basting with the BBQ sauce as it cooks adds layers of flavor and creates that sticky coating. Just be careful to not let it burn!
- Let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute for even more juiciness.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously sticky and spicy BBQ chicken that everyone will love!
Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on recommended)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (for stickiness and sweetness)
- 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce or cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to cook, making it a total time of about 50 minutes. Most of this time is hands-off as the chicken cooks! Perfect for a quick but delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Fire up your grill or preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re grilling, make sure to set it up for indirect heat to prevent flare-ups.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. This mix will give your chicken tons of flavor!
3. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken pieces and rub it in to coat them evenly. Then sprinkle the spice mixture over the thighs, making sure to coat them fully, massaging it into the meat for great flavor.
4. Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and your chosen hot sauce (or cayenne pepper). Stir until it’s well combined and smooth—this will be your sticky glaze!
5. Start Cooking the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the grill or a baking sheet if you’re using the oven. Let them cook for about 20 minutes, until they’re nice and cooked through (but not yet crispy).
6. Glaze the Chicken:
Take the chicken off the heat for a moment and brush a generous layer of your sticky BBQ sauce over each piece. Don’t forget to flip them over and coat the other side too!
7. Finish Cooking:
Put the chicken back on the grill or return the baking sheet to the oven. Cook for another 15-20 minutes, basting with more sauce every 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, especially since the sugar in the sauce can caramelize quickly.
8. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C)), remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside!
9. Optional Garnish:
Before serving, you can sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a little fresh flavor and color.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig into your delicious Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken! It pairs wonderfully with sides such as coleslaw, rice, or grilled vegetables. Enjoy the sweet, spicy, and sticky goodness!
This recipe will help you create that beautiful, dark-glazed chicken that looks as amazing as it tastes! Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but be aware they can dry out more easily than thighs. If you choose breasts, consider marinating them for longer, or watching the cooking time closely to prevent overcooking.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Absolutely! Follow the same instructions, placing the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, basting with sauce to achieve that sticky glaze.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature to keep them juicy and flavorful.
Can I Freeze the Chicken Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the seasoned chicken with the spice rub and sauce mixture. Just place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking for the best results!
