Backyard BBQ Grill Chicken
Juicy, smoky barbecue chicken is marinated in a savoury sauce for maximum tenderness and finished on the grill with a sticky, caramelised glaze. Perfect for outdoor cookouts or family dinners, it delivers bold flavour and is ideal for meal prep throughout the week.
Method
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In a large bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, oil, garlic, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
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Transfer around 60ml (1/4 cup) of the marinade to a separate bowl and refrigerate. This will be used later for basting.
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Add the chicken pieces to the remaining marinade, turning to coat every piece evenly.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavour.
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Preheat your barbecue or grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the cooking grates.
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Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook, turning every few minutes to prevent burning.
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During the final stages of cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce each time you turn it to build a sticky, caramelised glaze.
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Continue grilling until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part.
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Remove from the grill and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Marinate the chicken overnight for the best flavour and juiciness.
Use your favourite BBQ sauce to change up the flavour profile—try smoky, sweet, or mustard-based varieties.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge up to 4 days, and can be frozen for 3 months.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 360kcal |
| Total Fat | 19g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Protein | 34g |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of bone-in chicken?
Yes. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs also work, but they'll cook faster. Just watch the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 2 hours is recommended, but marinating overnight gives the best flavour and tenderness.
Why reserve some of the marinade?
The reserved marinade never touches raw chicken, so it's safe to use for basting and gives the chicken a glossy, caramelised finish on the grill.
Can I cook this BBQ chicken in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes. Bake at 200°C for 35–45 minutes, brushing with the reserved BBQ sauce in the last 10 minutes. Check for doneness at 74°C (165°F) internal temperature.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Cool the chicken completely and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or microwave until hot throughout.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Use regular paprika plus a pinch of ground cumin or a dash of liquid smoke to add a smoky note.
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