B B Q Lemon Chicken Family Favorite
Fire up the grill for this family-approved BBQ Lemon Chicken recipe that combines the tangy brightness of fresh lemon juice and zest with the smoky sweetness of classic barbecue sauce. Tender, juicy bone-in chicken thighs are marinated in a flavorful blend of garlic, honey, olive oil, and spices, then perfectly grilled or oven-roasted to golden, caramelized perfection. The homemade marinade not only infuses the chicken with layers of flavor but also doubles as a basting sauce to keep every bite moist and savory. Finished with a glossy barbecue glaze and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, this easy yet delicious dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for backyard gatherings, weeknight dinners, or special family occasions. Pair it with grilled veggies or coleslaw for an unforgettable meal that tastes just like summer! Keywords: BBQ Lemon Chicken, grilled chicken, family dinner ideas, barbecue chicken recipe, summer grilling recipes.
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Ingredients
- 8 pieces Chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 0.25 cup Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 0.5 cup Barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons Honey
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
Step 1
In a bowl, prepare the marinade by combining lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 2
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
Step 3
Preheat your grill or barbecue to medium heat (about 375°F/190°C). If using an oven, preheat to 375°F and use the broiler for finishing.
Step 4
Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Reserve the marinade for basting during cooking.
Step 5
On the grill, place the chicken skin-side down and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baste occasionally with the reserved marinade. Be careful not to use raw marinade during the last few minutes to prevent contamination.
Step 6
If using an oven, bake the chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet for 30 minutes. Turn on the broiler for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp up the skin while basting with the reserved marinade.
Step 7
During the last few minutes of cooking, brush a layer of barbecue sauce over the chicken for a caramelized glaze.
Step 8
Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.
Step 9
Remove the chicken from the grill or oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Step 10
Serve hot with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or baked potatoes for a complete family meal.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1355.2g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 2758.6 |
| Total Fat 186.9g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 52.9g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1g | |
| Cholesterol 972mg | 0% |
| Sodium 4747.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 59.1g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 1.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 45.4g | |
| Protein 217.9g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 195.1mg | 0% |
| Iron 12.4mg | 0% |
| Potassium 2584.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories