When I first tried this sticky spicy BBQ chicken recipe, I knew it was a keeper. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors, wrapped around tender, juicy pieces of chicken.

The way the sauce caramelizes on the outside while keeping the inside perfectly moist is pure magic. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not a grilling expert. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Credit: bellyfull

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- Thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling.
2 teaspoons olive oil
- Keeps the chicken from sticking and adds nice moisture.
1 teaspoon salt
- Enhances the flavor of the chicken itself.
1 teaspoon black pepper
- Adds depth and a gentle heat.

For the BBQ Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter
- Gives richness to the sauce.
2 tablespoons yellow onion, finely chopped
- Adds sweetness and texture to the base.
1 clove garlic, minced
- The flavor booster!
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- Brings just the right tanginess.
¼ cup water
- Helps thin out the sauce for coating.
½ cup ketchup
- The base of the sticky BBQ flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika
- Adds a smoky undertone.
2 teaspoons sriracha
- For a punch of heat!
2 teaspoons hot chili paste, such as sambal oelek
- Brings depth to the spice.
½ tablespoon chili powder
- Adds warmth without overwhelming heat.
2 teaspoons mustard
- Adds an edge of sharpness.
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- A touch of umami for that “something extra.”

Note: This recipe serves 4 people. Adjust ingredient quantities if prepping for larger groups.

Variations

Sugar-Free: Swap the ketchup and sriracha for sugar-free versions to reduce sweetness without losing flavor.
Mild Option: Tone down the heat by using less sriracha and omitting chili paste.
Gluten-Free: Ensure your Worcestershire sauce and chili paste are gluten-free.
Sweet and Smoky Additions: Add a tablespoon of molasses for deeper sweetness and smokiness.

For a hearty meal, pair it with this chicken riggies recipe for a delicious pasta side.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Equipment You Need

Grill or Oven: For cooking the chicken to juicy perfection.
Medium saucepan: To simmer the BBQ sauce.
Basting brush: For coating the chicken with sauce.
Tongs: For flipping the chicken on the grill.
Meat thermometer: To check that the chicken is cooked through.

How to Make Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken?

Prepare the BBQ Sauce

Start by making the flavorful glue that ties this dish together. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it starts to sizzle, add the onions and cook until they’re soft and fragrant. Toss in the garlic and give it a quick stir until aromatic.

Add in the cider vinegar, water, and ketchup, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in paprika, chili powder, and mustard, followed by the sriracha and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. It’ll thicken up into a luscious sauce that’s perfect for coating the chicken.

Season and Prep the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, then sprinkle on salt and black pepper. Rub everything together so the seasoning sticks to every piece. This step ensures a good base flavor before the sauce takes over.

Cook the Chicken

For the grill, heat to medium-low (you want the chicken to cook slowly for juicy results). Place the thighs on the grill, smooth side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Coat the Chicken

Once your chicken is done, transfer it to a large bowl. Pour your warm BBQ sauce over the top, ensuring every piece is evenly coated. For an extra sticky finish, return the chicken to the grill or oven for a few more minutes.

Credit: biteswithbri

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here’s what I’ve learned after a few rounds of making this fantastic dish:

Marinate Overnight: Marinating the chicken in olive oil, salt, and pepper overnight gives an extra flavor boost.
Rest Before Serving: Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking locks in its juices.
Don’t Skimp on Sauce: Coat the chicken generously for ultimate sticky deliciousness.
Control the Heat: Adjust the spice level to your liking by tweaking the sriracha and chili paste quantities.

If you enjoy grilled chicken, you might also love this cheesy chicken recipe for a creamy twist.

How to Serve Sticky Spicy BBQ Chicken?

Presentation matters as much as flavor. Arrange the chicken on a platter and drizzle any remaining sauce on top for extra gloss. Garnish with finely chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color and crunch.

Pair this dish with sides like buttery cornbread, creamy coleslaw, or grilled corn to balance the spicy and smoky flavors.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving for this recipe:

Calories: Around 300
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 16g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Cool the chicken completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place fully cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are so many reasons to add this sticky spicy BBQ chicken recipe to your rotation:

Bold Flavors: Sweet, spicy, smoky, and tangy in every bite.
Easy to Make: Straightforward steps, even for beginners.
Versatile Cooking Options: Grill it for a smoky finish or bake if you’re short on time.
Customizable Heat: Adjust spices to suit everyone’s taste buds.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight dinners to BBQ parties, it always impresses.

From its bold flavors to its versatile cooking options, this sticky spicy BBQ chicken is more than just a meal. It’s an experience waiting to be savored. Get your ingredients ready and try it out—I promise it’ll be a hit! You can also enjoy similar chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell