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Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

These sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs deliver bold smoky flavor in every juicy bite. The chicken is marinated in a mix of honey soy sauce and spicy BBQ then grilled to perfection for a crispy charred finish. It is a dish that works equally well for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer cookout with friends. Serve it with your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a satisfying meal everyone will love. The sweetness from the honey balances the heat and gives that irresistible sticky texture on the outside.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Fri, 04 Jul 2025 15:34:03 GMT
A plate of BBQ chicken thighs with sauce. Bookmark
A plate of BBQ chicken thighs with sauce. | ioanacooks.com

Get ready for a delicious dinner with these sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs. Juicy and tender with bold smoky flavor these are perfect for weeknights or grilling season. The marinade packs in flavor while the grilling gives them a caramelized char that is irresistible. These are always a hit at my family gatherings.

I first made this for a Sunday barbecue with friends and it quickly became our go-to. The kids love the sticky glaze and the grown-ups go for seconds every time.

Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs: These stay juicy and flavorful on the grill. I prefer skin-on bone-in for best results but boneless works in a pinch
  • Spicy BBQ sauce: This gives the chicken its signature bold kick. You can use store-bought or mix ketchup and spices if needed
  • Honey: This helps create that sticky glossy finish and balances the spice beautifully
  • Soy sauce: Adds depth and umami to the marinade
  • Apple cider vinegar: Lends a tang that cuts through the richness
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: Essential aromatics that boost the savory notes
  • Smoked paprika: Enhances the grilled smoky flavor
  • Cayenne pepper: Brings the heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance
  • Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to round everything out
  • Fresh parsley: For garnish and a pop of color on the plate

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl combine BBQ sauce honey soy sauce vinegar garlic and onion powders smoked paprika cayenne salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and consistent throughout
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or resealable bag and pour the marinade over. Ensure each piece is coated well. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for deeper flavor
Grill the Chicken:
Preheat the grill to medium high. Shake off excess marinade and grill skin side down for 5 to 7 minutes. Flip and cook another 5 to 7 minutes basting occasionally until the chicken is charred and reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit internally
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the chicken rest a few minutes after grilling. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a perfect summer meal
Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs. Bookmark
Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken Thighs. | ioanacooks.com

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet to keep the texture juicy. You can also freeze cooked portions for up to three months and thaw overnight before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have apple cider vinegar use lemon juice or white vinegar in equal amounts. No BBQ sauce No problem. Mix ketchup with hot sauce and a touch of molasses or Worcestershire for a great substitute. Maple syrup can also replace honey if you want a different flavor profile

Serving Suggestions

These go great with fluffy white rice or a fresh crunchy coleslaw. For a complete barbecue plate add baked beans or grilled corn on the cob. I also love slicing leftovers into wraps or salads for a quick lunch

Sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs. Bookmark
Sticky spicy BBQ chicken thighs. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Note

BBQ chicken has roots in many traditions across the southern US where sweet and spicy glazes are staples at cookouts. This version brings a modern spicy twist that still honors that smoky heritage

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead?

Yes boneless thighs cook faster so grill them for about four to six minutes per side. Be careful not to overcook as they can dry out more quickly than bone in thighs.

→ What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?

You can mix equal parts of ketchup and hot sauce for a quick substitute. Add in some spices like Worcestershire sauce or molasses to mimic the depth of traditional BBQ sauce.

→ How should I store leftover chicken thighs?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a skillet to retain their juiciness. You can also freeze them for up to three months.

→ Can I bake instead of grill the chicken?

Yes bake the marinated chicken in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty five to thirty minutes. Baste midway through for extra flavor and a caramelized finish.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results marinate the chicken for at least two hours or overnight. This helps the flavors fully soak in for a more flavorful and tender result.

Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken

Juicy chicken thighs grilled in sticky spicy glaze with bold flavor

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Time
45 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Medium Difficulty

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 4 How Many It Serves (8 grilled chicken thighs)

Dietary Preferences: Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Chicken

Ingredient 01 8 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in

→ Marinade

Ingredient 02 1 cup spicy BBQ sauce
Ingredient 03 2 tablespoons honey
Ingredient 04 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Ingredient 05 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Ingredient 06 2 teaspoons garlic powder
Ingredient 07 2 teaspoons onion powder
Ingredient 08 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Ingredient 09 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Ingredient 10 Salt and pepper to taste

→ Garnish

Ingredient 11 Fresh chopped parsley

Steps to Follow

Step 01

In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 02

Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl, pour marinade over them, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Step 03

Set grill to medium-high heat or prepare a two-zone setup if using charcoal.

Step 04

Remove chicken from marinade and grill skin-side down for 5 to 7 minutes per side, basting with reserved marinade until cooked through and charred.

Step 05

Remove chicken from grill, rest for a few minutes, and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. Bring chicken to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
  2. Marinating overnight enhances flavor depth and tenderness.
  3. Use two-zone grilling to manage heat and prevent flare-ups.

Tools You'll Need

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Resealable bag or container
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains soy from soy sauce

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 390
  • Total Fat: 24 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 14 grams
  • Protein Amount: 28 grams