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–+ servings

Best BBQ Chicken: A Flavorful Classic for Every Occasion

The Best BBQ Chicken is a juicy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Brined for tenderness, coated in a smoky spice rub, and finished with tangy BBQ sauce, this recipe delivers bold flavors in every bite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Brine:

  • 2 quarts water
  • 3 tablespoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed

For the Chicken:

  • 4 –5 lbs mixed chicken pieces breasts, thighs, drumsticks, wings
  • For the Spice Rub:
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground paprika
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup BBQ sauce or more to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Brine: Combine water, salt, brown sugar, and crushed garlic in a large container. Stir until dissolved. Submerge the chicken in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for 2–4 hours.
  • Make the Spice Rub: Mix brown sugar, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
  • Remove and Dry the Chicken: Take the chicken out of the brine, discard the brine, and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  • Season the Chicken: Rub the spice mix generously over all sides of the chicken pieces.
  • Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium heat (350–375°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  • Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on the grill and cook over indirect heat for 20–25 minutes, flipping occasionally. Brush BBQ sauce onto the chicken during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking. Move to direct heat briefly to caramelize the sauce.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature:
  • Breasts: 165°F. Thighs/Drumsticks: 175°F. Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal
Keyword Best BBQ Chicken
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