This Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! The chicken gets coated in a sweet and spicy sauce, making it super flavorful and perfect for any grilling occasion.
Don’t be surprised if your fingers get sticky—just go with it! I love to serve this with some crunchy veggies on the side. It’s simple, fun, and always a hit at my gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe. They stay juicy and flavorful while grilling. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster. Thighs are my favorite for that tender bite.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a smoky flavored BBQ sauce for extra depth. If you like homemade, blend ketchup with Worcestershire sauce and a splash of liquid smoke. You could also try teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both provide sweetness, but honey gives a nice glaze. If you need a sugar-free option, use a sugar substitute like agave nectar or maple syrup. Just keep in mind the flavor may vary slightly.
Hot Sauce: Adjust based on your heat preference. If you like milder, choose a sweeter hot sauce, like sriracha. For more heat, consider a hotter variety like Tabasco or even some chili paste.
How Do I Get That BBQ Chicken Crispy and Sticky?
A great grill technique helps ensure your BBQ chicken turns out delicious. Here’s how to achieve that crispy skin and sticky glaze:
- Start with a preheated grill for even cooking. Medium-high is key—too hot will burn the outside before the inside cooks.
- After seasoning, oil the chicken to help prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.
- Grill skin-side down first for 6-8 minutes. This allows the skin to crisp up nicely.
- Apply the BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to keep it from burning while still allowing that sticky glaze to form.
- Make sure to flip and baste while cooking to build layers of flavor and enhance that sticky texture.
Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 to 4 pounds)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably smoky flavored)
- 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sticky spicy BBQ chicken takes about 20 minutes of prep time and around 30-40 minutes for grilling. You’ll spend some time mixing the sauce and getting everything ready, and then just let the grill do its magic. It’s quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheating the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 375-400°F (190-200°C). If you prefer, you can also use the oven; just preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
2. Making the BBQ Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey (or brown sugar), hot sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to create a deliciously sticky and spicy BBQ sauce.
3. Preparing the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
4. Oiling the Chicken:
Brush the chicken thighs with vegetable or olive oil. This will help prevent them from sticking to the grill and ensure a beautiful golden color.
5. Grilling the Chicken:
Carefully place the chicken thighs on the grill skin side down. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the skin starts to get crispy. Then, gently flip them over.
6. Adding the Sauce:
Now, take some of your delicious BBQ sauce and brush it generously on the grilled side of the chicken. Keep grilling for another 5-7 minutes.
7. Basting and Finishing:
Flip the chicken again and coat the other side with more BBQ sauce. At this point, you may want to reduce the grill heat to medium, or move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill to cook through without burning the sauce. Grill for about 10-15 minutes longer, basting occasionally for extra flavor.
8. Checking for Doneness:
Your chicken is ready to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce looks sticky and caramelized.
9. Resting the Chicken:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken tender.
10. Serving:
Serve your sticky spicy BBQ chicken hot with your favorite sides, like coleslaw or corn on the cob. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
This recipe will make you and your guests love the tender meat with that irresistible sticky BBQ glaze! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out quicker than thighs. If using breasts, consider marinating them longer for added moisture and flavor. Adjust grilling time to 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
To reduce the heat, simply decrease the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper in the recipe. You can also use a milder barbecue sauce, which may naturally have a sweeter flavor without added heat.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This Chicken?
Some great sides include coleslaw, corn on the cob, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. For a heartier option, you might also try serving it with baked beans or potato salad.
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a bit of water to keep it from drying out. Enjoy it warm or shred it for use in salads or sandwiches!
