Summer is finally here, which means it’s time to fire up the grill and get ready for a season filled with delicious BBQ flavors. And what better way to kick things off than with some spicy chicken BBQ recipes? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering ideas that are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
From classic backyard favorites like honey garlic BBQ chicken skewers and smoky bourbon BBQ chicken thighs, to more adventurous options like Korean gochujang BBQ chicken and spicy BBQ chicken tacos with slaw, there’s something on this list for everyone. So whether you’re a BBQ newbie or a seasoned pro, keep reading to discover the perfect recipe to spice up your summer grilling game.
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these sweet and savory skewers, perfect for a backyard barbecue or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and BBQ sauce.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until well coated with the glaze.
4. Thread 2-3 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush both sides of the skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sriracha BBQ Chicken Wings
Get ready to level up your wing game with this addictive recipe that combines the sweetness of BBQ sauce with the spicy kick of Sriracha.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange chicken wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Smoky Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with these smoky, bourbon-infused BBQ chicken thighs that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With a depth of flavor from the bourbon and a tangy kick from the BBQ sauce, these thighs will be the star of any backyard bash or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup wood chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush with BBQ sauce.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tangy Pineapple BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Get ready to elevate your backyard BBQ game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken drumsticks!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken drumsticks to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange drumsticks in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Chicken Legs
Elevate your backyard barbecue with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of honey and brown sugar with the tanginess of BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, brown sugar, and BBQ sauce until well combined.
3. Season the chicken legs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Brush the sweet and sticky mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken legs.
5. Grill or bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chipotle Lime BBQ Chicken Breast
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this flavorful and aromatic Chipotle Lime BBQ Chicken Breast recipe, perfect for a summer evening or any time you crave a tangy twist on classic BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the lime-chipotle mixture on both sides.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce (if using) during the last minute of grilling.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these sweet and tangy chicken sandwiches, featuring a maple mustard BBQ sauce that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk-Style BBQ Chicken with Mango Salsa
Add a Caribbean twist to your backyard barbecue with this flavorful jerk-style BBQ chicken paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa. Perfect for a summer gathering or casual dinner.
Ingredients:
For the Jerk-Style BBQ Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve grilled chicken with Mango Salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Gochujang BBQ Chicken
Korean Gochujang BBQ Chicken Recipe
A sweet and spicy twist on traditional BBQ chicken, this recipe combines the bold flavors of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with the richness of soy sauce and brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup gochujang
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ground ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush with additional gochujang mixture during last minute of grilling.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Chicken Pizza with Red Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this savory and sweet combination of BBQ chicken, red onions, and melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken breast (BBQ style)
– 1/4 cup caramelized red onion slices
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped BBQ chicken breast and caramelized red onion slices.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders
Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Chicken Sliders Recipe
Summary: This recipe is a twist on classic pulled chicken sliders, with the added convenience of slow cooking and a tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 8 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw and pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve the pulled chicken on hamburger buns with coleslaw and pickles (if desired).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the smokiness of grilled chicken and BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, BBQ sauce, olive oil, onion, garlic, and salt & pepper to taste.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, slice the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
5. Stuff each pepper with grilled chicken mixture and top with cooked rice.
6. Cover grill and cook peppers for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Bacon Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering BBQ chicken and bacon quesadillas, packed with savory flavors and crispy textures.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Divide the BBQ sauce among the four tortillas, spreading it evenly on half of each tortilla.
4. Add shredded cheese to the BBQ sauce, then top with the chicken-bacon mixture.
5. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Peach Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs
Peach Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs Recipe
Get ready to savor the sweetness of summer with this mouthwatering Peach Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a show-stopping main course for your next outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup peach preserves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh peaches, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the peach glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush with BBQ sauce.
6. Serve hot with additional sliced peaches, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Peach Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs!
BBQ Chicken Salad with Avocado Dressing
Satisfy your cravings with this refreshing BBQ chicken salad, topped with a creamy avocado dressing and crunchy croutons.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon BBQ sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mashed avocado, lime juice, and BBQ sauce until smooth.
3. Add diced chicken to the salad bowl and toss to combine.
4. Drizzle the avocado dressing over the top of the salad and toss gently to coat.
5. Sprinkle croutons over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy BBQ Chicken Tacos with Slaw
Transform your taco Tuesday into a flavor fiesta with these spicy BBQ chicken tacos, topped with a tangy slaw that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw ingredients:
+ 1 head of cabbage, shredded
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
+ 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and hot sauce. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the slaw by combining shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.
5. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips. Assemble tacos by placing chicken onto tortillas, topped with slaw.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to fall in love with this innovative twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky flavor of BBQ chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, diced green onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until soft.
3. Meanwhile, grill chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and toss with BBQ sauce.
5. Split baked sweet potatoes in half lengthwise.
6. Stuff each sweet potato with BBQ chicken, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, top with shredded cheese, cilantro, or green onions.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Get ready to grill up some mouthwatering kabobs with a twist! This recipe combines the classic flavors of garlic butter, tangy BBQ sauce, and tender chicken for a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Thread chicken, garlic butter mixture, and cherry tomatoes (optional) onto skewers.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush with BBQ sauce.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese Bake
A comforting twist on classic mac and cheese, this recipe combines the creamy pasta dish with the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and BBQ sauce. Mix well.
4. Add diced chicken breast and olive oil to the pasta mixture. Toss until combined.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked BBQ Chicken with Alabama White Sauce
Get ready to elevate your backyard barbecue game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines tender smoked chicken with a tangy and creamy Alabama white sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Smoked BBQ Rub (available at most grocery stores or online)
– 1 cup wood chips for smoking (such as hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Alabama White Sauce (recipe below)
Smoked BBQ Chicken:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Smoked BBQ Rub and buttermilk to create a paste.
3. Apply the paste evenly to both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place chicken in the smoker, closing the lid to maintain heat and smoke.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Alabama White Sauce:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add buttermilk and whisk until smooth.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Assembly:
1. Slice smoked chicken into thin strips.
2. Drizzle Alabama White Sauce over the top of the chicken.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Summary
Get ready to heat up your summer grilling game with these mouth-watering spicy chicken BBQ recipes! From classic wings and thighs to innovative skewers and stuffed peppers, there’s something for everyone. Try Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers, Spicy Sriracha BBQ Chicken Wings, or Smoky Bourbon BBQ Chicken Thighs. Or, take it up a notch with Chipotle Lime BBQ Chicken Breast or Jerk-Style BBQ Chicken with Mango Salsa. Whatever your taste buds crave, these 20 recipes will ensure a sizzlin’ summer of flavor!