12 BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes That Taste Like Backyard Perfection bring you the best of summer grilling, where smoky flavors, tender meat, and the perfect balance of sweet and tangy sauces come together in a way that will transport your taste buds straight to a backyard BBQ. Chicken thighs, with their rich flavor and juicy texture, are a grilling favorite for good reason—they stay moist, even under high heat, and absorb marinades and seasonings like no other cut of chicken.
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout, a family gathering, or just a casual dinner, these BBQ chicken thigh recipes will make your meal feel like a special occasion. From sweet honey BBQ to spicy chipotle, these recipes offer a variety of flavors that will please everyone at the table. You don’t need to be a grilling expert to make these chicken thighs a hit; each recipe is designed to deliver bold, satisfying flavors without complicated techniques.
Get ready to unlock the secret to juicy, flavorful BBQ chicken thighs that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you prefer a smoky, tangy glaze or a bold, spicy rub, there’s something for every BBQ lover in this collection.
Buttermilk Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
Buttermilk marinated grilled chicken thighs are a fantastic way to bring backyard flavors to your dinner table. This recipe features juicy, tender chicken thighs soaked in a creamy buttermilk marinade, which adds a delightful tanginess and ensures the meat stays moist while grilling. It’s an easy and straightforward dish that will impress your guests without a lot of fuss.
The magic happens as the buttermilk works to tenderize the chicken, infusing it with flavor. Add your favorite spices and herbs to the marinade, and you’re set for a deliciously seasoned meal. Perfect for barbecues or weeknight dinners, these chicken thighs are bound to become a family favorite!
Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken Thighs
Honey garlic glazed chicken thighs bring a delightful combination of sweetness and savory flavors that make for an irresistible dish. This recipe is simple and perfect for any backyard BBQ gathering.
With juicy chicken thighs coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze, each bite is a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and cook, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl, pour the marinade over them, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge for more flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Glaze and Serve: Brush additional marinade over the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling. Remove from the grill, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.
Cajun Spiced Chicken Thighs
Cajun spiced chicken thighs are a mouthwatering delight that brings the essence of the South right to your grill. With a blend of spices that packs a punch, these thighs are juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for any backyard gathering or weeknight dinner.
This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to get that smoky, charred flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, you’ll find this dish easy to whip up and hard to resist!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice crispy skin.
- Season the Thighs: In a bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well coated.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes, then flip and grill for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the thighs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken Thighs
Sweet and smoky BBQ chicken thighs are the perfect dish for any backyard gathering. With their tender, juicy meat and a glaze that marries the flavors of sweetness and smokiness, these thighs will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner.
This recipe features chicken thighs marinated in a homemade BBQ sauce that combines tangy, sweet, and smoky elements. The marinade infuses the chicken with incredible flavor while it cooks, resulting in a dish that’s finger-licking good. Let’s get right into the ingredients and how to make these crowd-pleasers!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to soak in.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Thighs
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken Thighs are a must-try for anyone who loves a kick in their barbecue. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers and sweet BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that makes these thighs juicy and full of flavor. Plus, they are simple to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.
These chicken thighs are grilled to perfection, resulting in crispy skin that seals in the delicious juices. Ideal for serving at backyard gatherings or family meals, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite. Get ready to enjoy a burst of spicy, tangy goodness!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 1/4 cup chipotle BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the chipotle BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more intense flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, garnish with fresh cilantro, and enjoy your spicy chipotle BBQ chicken thighs!
Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs
Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken Thighs are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that make for a winning dish at any summer gathering. This recipe is not only mouthwatering but also simple to whip up, making it perfect for both experienced cooks and novices alike.
The marinade of maple syrup and mustard caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a rich flavor and appealing glaze. Pair these thighs with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill the thighs skin-side down for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until cooked through and the juices run clear.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Lemon Herb Marinade Chicken Thighs
Lemon Herb Marinade Chicken Thighs provide a bright and refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any BBQ. The zesty lemon combined with fragrant herbs creates a mouthwatering marinade that not only enhances the chicken’s natural taste but also keeps it juicy and tender. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners or weekend grilling sessions.
This recipe is all about balancing simplicity and flavor. Just marinate the chicken thighs for a few hours, and then toss them on the grill for a beautiful char. The result is a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 7-10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with extra lemon wedges and enjoy!
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki grilled chicken thighs are a mouthwatering treat that combines the juicy richness of chicken with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it perfect for any backyard BBQ.
The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful taste that perfectly balances sweetness and umami. Grilling the thighs adds a smoky depth that complements the sauce beautifully. Serve them alongside some grilled vegetables or fluffy rice to round out the meal!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the marinade.
- Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
- Once done, remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Thighs
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Thighs deliver a delightful burst of flavor that makes them a favorite at summer cookouts. The savory garlic pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters alike.
This dish is all about bringing out the natural juiciness of chicken thighs while infusing them with zesty garlic and a cheesy crust. It’s a fantastic addition to any BBQ spread and pairs wonderfully with sides like coleslaw or grilled vegetables.
Mango Habanero BBQ Chicken Thighs
Get ready for a burst of tropical flavor with these Mango Habanero BBQ Chicken Thighs! The sweet mango pairs beautifully with the heat of the habanero, creating a dish that’s both sweet and spicy. This recipe is simple to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
The chicken thighs stay juicy and tender as they soak up the tangy marinade, and grilling gives them a delightful char. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a meal that impresses both family and friends!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1 habanero pepper, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, blend the diced mango, chopped habanero, BBQ sauce, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mango Habanero BBQ Chicken Thighs!
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Thighs
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Thighs are the perfect blend of smoky and spicy flavors that will elevate your backyard gatherings. These juicy thighs are slathered in a zesty buffalo sauce that adds a nice kick, making them irresistible to anyone who loves a bit of heat. Plus, they are simple to whip up, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the outdoors rather than in the kitchen!
This recipe is all about bold flavors and satisfying textures. Pairing tender chicken with the tangy notes of buffalo sauce creates a dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or casual weeknight dinners. Serve them with a side of creamy ranch dressing and fresh celery sticks for a classic touch!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.
- Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip the chicken and brush the buffalo sauce generously on the top. Close the grill lid and cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with additional buffalo sauce and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Herbed Citrus Chicken Thighs
Herbed Citrus Chicken Thighs are a delightful addition to any BBQ spread. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty citrus creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s perfect for summer grilling. Not only do these thighs taste great, but they are also super easy to prepare, making them a great choice for a casual cookout or a weeknight dinner.
The bright flavors of lemon and lime blend beautifully with the herbs, creating a refreshing dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled veggies or a light salad, these chicken thighs are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, garlic, parsley, cilantro, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add the chicken thighs, making sure they are well-coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
Conclusion
After exploring these 12 BBQ chicken thigh recipes, you’ll have the perfect lineup for your next cookout or family dinner. Chicken thighs offer endless possibilities when it comes to flavoring, and each recipe in this list is packed with mouthwatering combinations that will have you reaching for seconds.
Grilling season is all about enjoying good food, good company, and the great outdoors. These BBQ chicken thighs will become a staple at your next backyard party or weekday dinner, offering easy-to-make yet unforgettable flavors that everyone will love. So fire up that grill, get your hands on some chicken thighs, and enjoy the smoky, savory goodness that comes with the perfect BBQ feast!
