This Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken is a treat! It’s juicy, sweet, and has just the right kick that makes every bite exciting. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up!
I love serving this dish at backyard barbecues or family dinners. It’s always a hit, and people can’t resist licking their fingers clean—trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one piece! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy during cooking. If you prefer breast meat, use boneless chicken breasts, but watch the cooking time closely as they cook faster.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce or make your own. If you want a healthier option, opt for a low-sugar sauce or make a homemade one with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Honey adds a lovely sweetness and stickiness, but brown sugar works well too. For a lower-calorie version, try agave syrup or maple syrup. They bring a different flavor but work great in marinades.
Hot Sauce: Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance. Sriracha or any chili sauce can be substituted if you want a different kick!
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Chicken?
To keep your chicken juicy, it’s crucial to pat them dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick better. Also, using bone-in thighs rather than breasts really makes a difference since the fat in the skin keeps the meat moist.
- Rub the chicken with spices thoroughly to create a flavorful crust.
- Grill or bake on medium heat to allow even cooking. Avoid high heat, as it may dry out the chicken.
- Don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking! This helps redistribute the juices inside, making each bite tender.
Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the BBQ Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spice Mix:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and around 30-35 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and delicious option. You’ll enjoy a flavorful, sticky barbecue chicken that’s perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Cooking Surface:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F) or your oven to 400°F if you prefer baking the chicken. This ensures a nice sear and helps the chicken cook evenly.
2. Prepare the BBQ Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey (or brown sugar), hot sauce, and olive oil. Stir thoroughly to create a sticky and spicy glaze that will coat the chicken perfectly.
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. This spice blend adds depth and flavor to the chicken!
4. Season the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels to help the spice mix stick better. Then, rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the chicken pieces. Make sure every bit is covered!
5. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill or a baking sheet if baking. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Add the BBQ Glaze:
With 10 minutes left to cook, generously brush the chicken with the sticky BBQ glaze every 3-4 minutes. This will create a deliciously thick, sticky coating on your chicken.
7. Check for Doneness:
Continue grilling or baking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the sauce has caramelized into a lovely sticky glaze, which should take around 30-35 minutes total.
8. Let it Rest:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside and makes the chicken even juicier when you cut into it.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot and sticky BBQ chicken with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a crisp salad. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be aware that they cook faster than thighs. Adjust the cooking time to around 20-25 minutes total, checking for an internal temperature of 165°F to avoid drying them out.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper or omit them entirely. You can also use a sweet barbecue sauce without additional hot sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken in the spice rub and glaze for a few hours or overnight in the fridge for more intense flavors. Just remember to let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm them gently in the oven until heated through. You might want to add a touch of BBQ sauce to keep them moist while reheating!
