There is something about the smell of chicken on the grill that just signals summer. I make BBQ chicken more than almost anything else during the warmer months — it is fast, the whole family eats it, and the cleanup is minimal. Think sticky BBQ chicken thighs, juicy grilled chicken breast, smoky drumsticks, and loaded BBQ chicken sandwiches — the kind of recipes that work just as well for a quick weeknight dinner as they do for a backyard cookout or summer gathering.
This roundup covers the best BBQ chicken recipes for every occasion — from easy family dinners and casual cookouts to crowd-pleasing spreads that make the most of a hot grill and good weather.
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Grilled Whole Chicken
A whole chicken seasoned and grilled until the skin is golden and crispy and the meat is juicy and tender. A classic BBQ chicken recipe that always delivers.
Recipe: Grilled Whole Chicken
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated and grilled until golden with a light char. An easy, reliable BBQ chicken recipe that feeds a crowd without any fuss.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs
Beer Can Chicken
A whole chicken cooked upright over a can of beer until juicy, tender, and perfectly golden. One of the most fun and impressive ways to cook a whole BBQ chicken.
Recipe: Beer Can Chicken
Grilled Chicken Breast
Simple, juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned and cooked over high heat until perfectly golden. A versatile BBQ chicken recipe that pairs well with just about any side on the table.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Breast
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Spicy shredded buffalo chicken, creamy ranch, and melted cheese baked inside soft slider buns. A crowd-pleasing BBQ chicken recipe perfect for game day or any gathering.
Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Crispy-skinned chicken drumsticks seasoned and grilled until perfectly golden and juicy. An easy, budget-friendly BBQ chicken recipe the whole family will love.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Juicy chicken marinated in a sweet, savory teriyaki sauce and grilled until perfectly caramelized. A bold, flavor-packed BBQ chicken recipe with an Asian-inspired twist.
Recipe: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
Juicy chicken leg quarters seasoned and grilled low and slow until perfectly cooked with crispy, golden skin. A hearty, satisfying BBQ chicken recipe perfect for feeding a crowd.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Leg Quarters
0-400 Chicken Wings
Chicken wings started low and slow then cranked to 400°F for a perfectly crispy finish. One of the easiest and most popular BBQ chicken wing methods around.
Recipe: 0-400 Chicken Wings
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Juicy marinated chicken threaded onto skewers and grilled until golden with a light char. Simple, fresh, and perfect for feeding a crowd off the grill.
Recipe: Grilled Chicken Skewers
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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