Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe

If you are craving a dish that bursts with zesty brightness and smoky goodness, look no further than this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe. Juicy, tender chicken thighs are perfectly kissed by the grill’s flames, infused with fragrant herbs and spices, and finished off with a sticky, tangy barbecue glaze that makes every bite irresistible. This recipe is a celebration of summer grilling simplicity that will have you excited to fire up the grill again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward, essential ingredients that combine to create incredible depth of flavor. Each element plays a vital role—from the citrusy brightness of lemon juice that tenderizes, to a balanced herb and spice blend that adds warmth and character, and that luscious barbecue sauce that ties everything together with sticky-sweet charm.

• 4 pounds bone-in chicken thighs: Perfect for juicy, flavorful grilling with skin that crisps beautifully.
• Juice of 1 lemon: Adds zest and helps tenderize the meat for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 3 tablespoons olive oil: Ensures each piece is well coated and aids in the grilling process.
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the spices.
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard: Offers a subtle tang that complements the lemon and barbecue sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings savory depth and aroma to every bite.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky sweetness and a beautiful color to the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a gentle kick and complexity without overpowering the dish.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Introduces mellow, savory undertones.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Brings earthy herbal notes that marry well with lemon.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Lends a classic Mediterranean touch to the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of heat and sharpness.
• ¾ cup barbecue sauce: The crowning glory, providing sticky-sweet tang and caramelized goodness.

How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your bone-in chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better and promotes that gorgeous crispy skin on the grill. Place the thighs in a large baking dish—aluminum or ceramic works perfectly.

Step 2: Add Lemon Juice

Squeeze the fresh lemon juice evenly over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat both front and back. The lemon juice not only adds flavor but also begins the tenderizing process. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to soak in the citrusy goodness.

Step 3: Coat with Olive Oil

Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, rubbing it in thoroughly to coat both sides. The oil helps the skin crisp up on the grill and ensures your spices cling beautifully for even flavor throughout.

Step 4: Mix the Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, and black pepper. Stir to blend these aromatic spices lovingly into a single mix that will elevate every bite.

Step 5: Season the Chicken

Pour the spice blend over the chicken thighs and rub it in carefully, coating both sides evenly. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This rest allows those spices to fully penetrate the meat, creating layers of flavor you’ll adore.

Step 6: Preheat Your Grill

When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Heat one side of your grill to high heat—aim for 400 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit—while leaving the other side off. This two-zone setup lets you sear and then finish cooking gently.

Step 7: Sear the Chicken

Place each chicken thigh skin side up with the bone side down on the hot side of the grill. Cook for about 4 minutes with the lid closed to get a nice sear. Flip the thighs and cook for another 4 minutes with the lid down, allowing the skin to crisp and develop beautiful grill marks.

Step 8: Finish Cooking Slowly

Transfer the chicken to the cooler side of the grill, bone side down, and close the lid. Let it cook gently for 2 to 3 more minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches around 160 degrees Fahrenheit with an instant-read thermometer for safe and juicy results.

Step 9: Slather with Barbecue Sauce

Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over one side of the chicken thighs, then flip to coat the other side. Continue flipping and basting until all the sauce is used. This gives you that sticky, caramelized exterior that’s impossible to resist.

Step 10: Final Grill and Serve

Return the thighs to the hot side of the grill and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This final step ensures fully cooked, succulent chicken with that perfect balance of smoky char and tangy barbecue glaze.

How to Serve Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro make a lovely, vibrant garnish. A few lemon wedges on the side add a zesty option for those who want to squeeze a little extra brightness over their chicken before digging in. Sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving can amp up the flavor punch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with bright, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or grilled vegetables tossed in olive oil and sea salt. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread make comforting companions that soak up every bit of that barbecue sauce. For a lighter option, try a tangy coleslaw or a vibrant quinoa salad with fresh herbs and citrus.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the grilled chicken thighs over a bed of fluffy rice or nestled alongside grilled corn on the cob for a true summer feast feel. For a fun twist, chop the cooked chicken and toss it into wraps or tacos with a bit of fresh slaw and extra sauce. The Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe is versatile enough to wow guests at a casual backyard party or a festive family dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure the chicken has completely cooled before sealing to preserve the best texture and flavor. Leftover chicken is just as delicious cold or lightly reheated.

Freezing

If you want to keep the goodness longer, freeze the chicken thighs in a sealed freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. For the best results, freeze the chicken without the barbecue sauce, adding fresh sauce when reheating to keep its bright flavor intact.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, covered loosely with foil, for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if you can to keep the skin crisp and maintain the smoky grilled flavor. You can also reheat on the grill briefly to regain that fresh-off-the-grill magic.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs will cook faster, so reduce grilling time accordingly and watch the internal temperature closely to avoid drying out. The flavor remains just as delicious and tender with boneless cuts.

What type of barbecue sauce should I use?

Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce whether it’s sweet, spicy, tangy, or smoky. Each sauce will add a slightly different twist, so experiment to find your perfect match for the Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavor, making the thighs even more tender and flavorful. Just make sure to keep it covered and refrigerated during the marinating process.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest and most reliable method is using an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally. This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.

Can I make this recipe on a charcoal grill?

Definitely! A charcoal grill adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that complements the grilled lemon and barbecue sauce perfectly. Just manage the heat zones the same way as with a gas grill for optimal cooking.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats gathering around the grill and savoring the lively flavors of this Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe. It’s a simple yet show-stopping dish that brings sunshine to your plate and smiles to your table. I can’t wait for you to make it part of your summer grilling traditions and enjoy every delicious bite with friends and family.

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