Get ready to fire up your grill because this Easy BBQ Chicken recipe is a surefire way to make your summer cookouts a hit! With just five simple ingredients, juicy chicken, and a smoky-sweet barbecue sauce, this dish is just as delightful for family dinners as it is for backyard parties. Let’s dive into making this finger-licking chicken that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Budget Information
The total cost for this Easy BBQ Chicken recipe is approximately $10.75, which breaks down to about $2.69 per serving if you’re feeding four people. Here’s how the costs pile up:
- 8 chicken drumsticks: $6.00
- BBQ sauce: $2.00
- Yellow mustard: $0.50
- Seasoning salt: $0.50
- Garlic powder: $0.50
Why This Recipe Works
This BBQ Chicken recipe shines in its simplicity! Using only five ingredients makes it super accessible and perfect for those busy weeknights. The method is flexible too—you can grill, bake, or air-fry the chicken to suit your kitchen setup or how you’re feeling. Plus, it’s a big hit with kids and adults alike, making it the perfect choice for family gatherings. Just think juicy, tender chicken coated in your favorite BBQ sauce, finished on the grill—can you smell the deliciousness already?
Ingredients + Optional Substitutions
Gather these ingredients to prepare your Easy BBQ Chicken:
- Chicken Drumsticks: 8 pieces ($6.00) – feel free to swap for thighs or even breast if you prefer.
- Seasoning Salt: 1 tablespoon ($0.50) – you can also use adobo for an extra kick.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon ($0.50) – enhances the flavor; you could use fresh garlic if you have it!
- BBQ Sauce: 1 cup ($2.00) – use your favorite kind. You can also make a homemade version if you prefer a less sugary option.
- Yellow Mustard: 2 tablespoons ($0.50) – adds tanginess; this can be omitted if you’re not a fan.
- Water: 2 tablespoons (free) – to thin the sauce for better coating.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Begin by sprinkling the chicken drumsticks with the seasoning salt and garlic powder. For more intense flavor, gently rub some seasoning underneath the skin—this is where the magic happens! Once seasoned, cover your chicken with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour. If you have the time, overnight is even better, allowing those flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Step 2: While the chicken is soaking up those spices, let’s whip up the BBQ sauce. In a small mixing bowl, combine your chosen BBQ sauce, yellow mustard, and about 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until it’s well blended and easy to pour. We want this sauce to be the star of the show, after all!
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium heat, making sure it’s clean before you start. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking—nobody wants their delicious chicken stuck to the grill! Once it’s hot, reduce the heat to low and we’re ready to grill.
Step 4: Place the marinated drumsticks onto the grill and cover it. Turn the chicken every few minutes to ensure it browns evenly and doesn’t burn. You’re aiming for that beautiful golden brown color. This will take about 18 to 20 minutes; make sure to use a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked.
Step 5: In the final two minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ sauce mixture generously over the chicken, turning them a few times to caramelize that sauce. This gives the chicken a sticky, sweet glaze that you simply cannot resist. Remove them from the grill when they look irresistible and enjoy every moment!
Nutritional Facts
Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving (2 drumsticks):
- Calories: 267 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Carbohydrates: 7.5 g
- Total Fats: 13.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 357 mg
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftover BBQ Chicken (which I recommend you try not to!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or on the grill for that fresh-cooked taste. Just brush on a little more BBQ sauce to keep it juicy!
Serving Suggestions
This BBQ Chicken is a star on its own, but why stop there? Serve it with classic sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob for that perfect summer vibe. If you’re feeling adventurous, make BBQ chicken sandwiches, or slice the chicken and toss it in a salad with grilled veggies. The possibilities are endless!
Reader Tips or Helpful Notes
Here’s a little pro-tip: consider marinating your chicken overnight for extra flavor! Not a fan of drumsticks? You can absolutely use thighs or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. And if grilling isn’t your thing, don’t hesitate to bake or air-fry your chicken! Just ensure you pay attention to the cooking times, so everything comes out beautifully cooked and crave-worthy!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use skinless chicken; just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might cook a bit faster.
What BBQ sauce should I use?
Go with a BBQ sauce you love—sweet, spicy, or tangy! You can even make your own for a personalized touch.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Your chicken is ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend in this case!
Can I prep this chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can season and marinate the chicken a day in advance; just store it in the fridge. It’ll be packed with flavor when you’re ready to cook.
Can I use this recipe for a whole chicken?
You bet! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, and make sure all parts reach that safe internal temperature. Enjoy cooking!
