13 BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes for Perfect Backyard Dinners – When the weather warms up and the grill comes out, there’s nothing quite like the rich, smoky flavor of BBQ chicken thighs to bring your backyard gatherings to life. Chicken thighs are the ideal cut for grilling, offering juicy, tender meat that’s full of flavor and perfectly complemented by a variety of BBQ sauces and rubs. Whether you like your chicken spicy, tangy, or sweet, these 13 BBQ chicken thigh recipes will give you plenty of delicious options to try this grilling season.
From classic BBQ glazed thighs to unique combinations like honey mustard or even beer-marinated recipes, these chicken thighs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re perfect for cookouts, casual family dinners, or even a holiday celebration in the sunshine. Each recipe is easy to follow and designed to make your BBQ chicken thighs tender and flavorful, ensuring every bite is a true delight. So fire up the grill, grab your favorite seasonings, and get ready to serve up some of the best BBQ chicken thighs you’ve ever tasted!
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki glazed chicken thighs bring a sweet and savory twist to your backyard BBQ. This dish is packed with flavor, featuring a delightful blend of soy sauce, ginger, and honey. The glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a sticky finish that’s hard to resist.
It’s an easy recipe that even beginners can tackle. With minimal preparation and cooking time, you can have these delicious chicken thighs on your dinner table in no time. Let’s get into the details!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Add the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Thighs: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Glaze the Chicken: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush additional marinade onto the chicken to create a sticky glaze.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Spicy Garlic and Lime Chicken Thighs
Spicy Garlic and Lime Chicken Thighs are a delicious way to elevate your backyard dinner. With a zesty combination of lime juice and garlic, these chicken thighs pack a punch in flavor while remaining juicy and tender. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough to wow your guests.
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a family gathering or just looking for a tasty weeknight meal, these chicken thighs will become a go-to favorite. The bright lime flavor, paired with the kick of spice, creates a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure your coals are glowing and ready.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
Smoky Honey BBQ Chicken Thighs
Smoky Honey BBQ Chicken Thighs are a delightful addition to any backyard gathering. The blend of sweet honey and smoky BBQ flavors creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. These chicken thighs are easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
The tender, juicy meat absorbs the rich flavors beautifully, resulting in a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a comforting feel to your dinner table. Pair these thighs with your favorite sides for a memorable meal!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix together honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken thighs with the marinade, making sure they’re well-covered. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Flip the chicken and brush with additional BBQ sauce. Grill for another 7-10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, before serving.
BBQ Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Salsa
If you’re looking for a dish that screams summer and brings a burst of flavor to your backyard dinners, BBQ chicken thighs with pineapple salsa are the way to go. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, topped with a refreshing pineapple salsa that highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Not only is this recipe simple to make, but it also offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. The grilled chicken gets a lovely char, while the salsa adds a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the dish. It’s a crowd-pleaser and perfect for summer gatherings!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for grilling
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brush BBQ sauce over both sides of the thighs.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the pineapple salsa by combining diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Top with the pineapple salsa before serving.
Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken Thighs
Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken Thighs bring a delightful twist to your backyard gatherings. The sweet and tangy sauce perfectly complements the juicy, tender chicken, creating a mouthwatering dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, this recipe is easy to whip up, making it perfect for those relaxed summer evenings with friends and family.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious marinade that infuses the chicken thighs with flavor. Grilling enhances the sweetness of the sauce, giving the dish a nice caramelized finish. It’s a great option for anyone looking to impress their guests without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about another 6-8 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with your favorite sides.
Mediterranean Chicken Thighs with Olives
This recipe for Mediterranean chicken thighs is a simple, yet flavorful dish that brings the tastes of the Mediterranean right to your backyard. With juicy, marinated chicken thighs and the briny goodness of olives, each bite bursts with flavor. The combination of herbs, lemon, and olives adds a fresh, tangy twist that everyone will love.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare! Simply marinate the chicken, throw it on the grill, and you have a delicious meal ready in no time. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, these chicken thighs are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Place the thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Add Olives: During the last few minutes of cooking, sprinkle the olives over the chicken on the grill to warm them through.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Chipotle Barbecue Chicken Thighs
Chipotle barbecue chicken thighs bring a smoky, spicy kick to your backyard dinner. The combination of tender chicken and zesty chipotle sauce creates a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for any casual gathering.
This dish is perfect for grilling, as the high heat caramelizes the sauce, giving the chicken a beautiful glaze. You’ll love how the smoky chipotle flavor enhances the juicy chicken, making each bite a taste sensation.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup chipotle barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture over the chicken thighs.
- Marinate: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to absorb the flavors.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, brushing with chipotle barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Serve: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Herb and Citrus Marinated Chicken Thighs
Herb and citrus marinated chicken thighs bring a refreshing twist to your backyard BBQ. The bright flavors of citrus combined with fragrant herbs create a delightful and juicy chicken that’s sure to impress your guests. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it perfect for anyone looking to enhance their grilling game without too much effort.
The marinade infuses the chicken with a zesty kick, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it only takes a few ingredients, making it easy to whip up right before your dinner. Pair these thighs with a fresh salad or grilled veggies for a complete meal that celebrates the tastes of summer!
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 oranges
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic 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.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken Thighs
Lemon Pepper Grilled Chicken Thighs are a delightful option for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. The tangy lemon complements the savory pepper, creating a bright and zesty flavor that elevates the juicy chicken. This recipe is super simple to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
The combination of fresh lemon juice and cracked black pepper not only adds a burst of flavor but also keeps the chicken moist on the grill. Serve these thighs with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated in the marinade. Cover and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals for direct grilling.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it skin-side down on the grill. Grill for about 7-8 minutes before flipping. Cook for an additional 7-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Beer-Braised BBQ Chicken Thighs
Beer-braised BBQ chicken thighs are a fantastic addition to your backyard dinners. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with the rich flavors of beer and barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience for your taste buds. The beer not only adds depth but also helps to keep the chicken moist, making it perfectly succulent.
Simple to prepare, these chicken thighs can be marinated ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can impress your guests with delicious, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for grilling season.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 cup of your favorite beer
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the beer, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, then flip them over and brush with more barbecue sauce. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Thighs
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Thighs bring a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors to your summer cookouts. The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a glaze that perfectly complements the juicy chicken, making each bite a delicious treat. This recipe is not only tasty but also straightforward, making it perfect for a laid-back backyard dinner.
Grilling chicken thighs is simple, and with this marinade, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a grilling novice, these thighs are easy to prepare and cook to perfection. Let’s get to the recipe!
Ingredients
- 4-6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place them skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 7-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Cajun Spiced BBQ Chicken Thighs
Cajun spiced BBQ chicken thighs are a fantastic way to bring a taste of the South to your backyard gatherings. This dish is bursting with bold flavors from the Cajun seasoning, which combines spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic, making each bite a delightful experience. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the marinade beautifully, ensuring they stay moist and tender while grilling.
Not only is this recipe simple to whip up, but it also brings a bit of kick that everyone will enjoy. Perfect for those warm evenings outside, these chicken thighs will surely become a go-to favorite for your summer cookouts.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and place them in a large bowl.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate: Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Thighs: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, brushing with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes of cooking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Cajun-spiced BBQ chicken thighs with your favorite sides!
Balsamic Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs
Balsamic glazed BBQ chicken thighs are a delicious and easy way to elevate your outdoor cooking. With a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, these chicken thighs are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, they’re simple to make, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your backyard gathering.
The balsamic glaze adds a lovely depth to the grilled chicken, creating a caramelized crust that seals in the juiciness. This dish is ideal for those warm summer evenings when you want something tasty without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix balsamic vinegar, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the chicken and grill for another 6-7 minutes until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Glaze the Chicken: Brush additional barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor and a sticky glaze.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Conclusion
These 13 BBQ Chicken Thigh Recipes for Perfect Backyard Dinners are your go-to guide for making mouthwatering grilled chicken that will elevate your next cookout. With a variety of flavors and techniques, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your backyard BBQs exciting and flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned grilling pro or just starting out, these recipes will make your chicken thighs the star of the show. So, next time you’re planning a gathering, these BBQ chicken thigh recipes are guaranteed to deliver a perfect, juicy, and smoky dish that everyone will enjoy!