Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs

Grilling up a batch of chicken thighs can send mouthwatering aromas wafting through the backyard, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the grill. This recipe for Grilled Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs takes just 30 minutes of hands-on time, delivering tender, juicy chicken with a fiery kick. It’s the homemade barbecue sauce that elevates this dish, making it the star of any summer barbecue.

Perfect for family gatherings, weekend barbecues, or any occasion where you’re craving bold flavors, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. You can make the barbecue sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator, saving time on the day of your feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken thighs stay juicy and tender thanks to slow grilling.
• Homemade barbecue sauce adds a unique flavor with a kick.
• Quick to prepare, making it easy for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable heat level to suit your taste preferences.

What You’ll Need

Gather everything for your homemade spicy BBQ chicken thighs!

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 tsp sriracha
• 2 tsp hot chili paste (sambal olek, or sub sriracha)
• 1/2 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp worcestershire sauce

For a milder version, reduce the hot chili paste.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use olive oil or avocado oil.
• Substitute chicken thighs with breasts.
• Apple cider vinegar can be replaced with white vinegar.
• Sriracha can be swapped for your favorite hot sauce.

How to Make It

Let’s get grilling!

Prepare the sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, add butter and onions. Cook until onions are tender. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add remaining ingredients and bring to a low simmer. Let cook for about 15 minutes or until sauce thickens up, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside for later use.

Season the chicken

Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and oil on all sides.

Grill the chicken

Heat your grill to medium-low heat. Once the grill is nice and hot, place the chicken thighs on their smooth side down. The key to juicy and tender chicken is to grill them low and slow.

Flip the chicken

Turn the chicken thighs over every 3-4 minutes. Continue this process until chicken juices run clear and the internal temperature is between 165-170 degrees.

Baste with sauce

Baste the chicken thighs with the homemade spicy BBQ sauce during the last few turns.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.

Tips for Best Results

• Always preheat the grill for even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
• Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Experiment with spices in the sauce for unique flavor variations.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with coleslaw for a classic BBQ touch.
• Enjoy with cornbread for a hearty side.