Name: Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion; 1 clove garlic, minced; ¼ cup apple cider vinegar; ¼ cup water; ½ cup ketchup; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 teaspoons sriracha; 2 teaspoons hot chili paste (such as Sambal Oelek); ½ tablespoon chili powder; 2 teaspoons mustard; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

I love making these Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs because they deliver juicy, tender meat with a bold, smoky-sweet heat. The homemade barbecue sauce, infused with sriracha, chili paste, and tangy vinegar, transforms simple chicken thighs into a backyard favorite. Grilled low and slow, each bite is packed with flavor and perfect for any cookout. Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Why I Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe for several reasons. First, the spicy barbecue sauce is a game-changer—it’s rich, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat. Second, grilling the chicken thighs slowly over medium-low heat ensures they stay moist and tender. Lastly, it’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides, making it a go-to for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Spicy BBQ Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons finely chopped yellow onion
1 clove garlic, minced
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup water
½ cup ketchup
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons sriracha
2 teaspoons hot chili paste (such as Sambal Oelek; if unavailable, I use extra sriracha)
½ tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Directions

Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, I melt the butter and sauté the chopped onions until they’re tender. Then, I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. I stir in the remaining sauce ingredients and bring the mixture to a low simmer. I let it cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens. Once done, I remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Season the Chicken: I season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and olive oil on all sides.
Grill the Chicken: I preheat my grill to medium-low heat. Once hot, I place the chicken thighs on the grill, smooth side down. I grill them slowly, turning every 3–4 minutes, until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches between 165°F and 170°F (74°C to 77°C).
Baste with Sauce: During the last few turns on the grill, I baste the chicken thighs with the homemade spicy BBQ sauce to enhance their flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people. The preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cooking time is about 20 minutes, making the total time around 40 minutes.

Variations

Milder Heat: If I prefer a less spicy version, I reduce the amount of sriracha and chili paste or omit them entirely.
Different Cuts: Sometimes, I use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for added flavor and crispiness, adjusting the grilling time accordingly.
Oven-Baked Option: When grilling isn’t an option, I bake the seasoned chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes, basting with the sauce during the last 10 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: I store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, I microwave it on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.

FAQs

How can I make the BBQ sauce less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, I decrease or omit the sriracha and chili paste in the sauce. I can also add a bit more ketchup or a touch of honey to balance the heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, I can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, I monitor them closely while grilling, as they can dry out more quickly than thighs.

Is it necessary to baste the chicken with the sauce?

Basting adds an extra layer of flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. While it’s not strictly necessary, I find it enhances the overall taste.

Can I prepare the BBQ sauce in advance?

Absolutely. I often make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld and saves time on cooking day.

What sides pair well with this dish?

I enjoy serving these chicken thighs with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or cornbread. These accompaniments complement the smoky and spicy flavors of the chicken.

Conclusion

Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and satisfying dish that I love preparing for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of tender grilled chicken and a zesty homemade sauce makes this recipe a standout. Whether I’m hosting a barbecue or looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this dish never disappoints.