Southern BBQ chicken is a staple in many households, especially during the warmer months when grilling becomes a popular cooking method. This classic dish is a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors that are sure to please any palate. Whether you're a BBQ novice or a seasoned pro, this simple recipe will have you grilling up delicious chicken in no time.
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For this recipe, you will need chicken thighs or breasts with the skin on. The skin helps to seal in the moisture and adds extra flavor to the meat.
Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it's store-bought or homemade. If using a store-bought sauce, you can jazz it up by adding some honey or molasses to give it a touch of sweetness.
A good BBQ rub is essential for Southern BBQ chicken. You can make your own with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, you can use a pre-made rub from your local grocery store.
1. Start by preheating your grill to medium heat (around 375-400 degrees F).
2. In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for your BBQ rub and generously coat both sides of the chicken pieces.
3. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down, and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and slightly charred.
4. Flip the chicken and continue to cook for another 5-6 minutes on the other side.
5. Once the chicken is almost fully cooked, brush on a generous amount of BBQ sauce on both sides.
6. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping occasionally and adding more sauce as desired.
7. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
8. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This will help prevent overcooking and dry chicken.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.
Southern BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with classic sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, and baked beans. These sides add a hearty and delicious touch to your meal.
Now that you have the perfect Southern BBQ chicken recipe, it's time to fire up the grill and impress your friends and family with your grilling skills. Enjoy!
Ingredients
