Christmas is all about flavor, fun, and a little bit of wow factor. While turkey might be the classic holiday star, Christmas BBQ chicken brings a smoky, savory twist that will have your guests asking for seconds. Sweet, tangy, and perfectly charred, this chicken recipe is a delightful surprise for any holiday gathering. Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide that will make your BBQ chicken the talk of the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before firing up the grill, gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- 4–6 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional garnish: fresh rosemary or parsley
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin crisps up beautifully on the grill. Combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated.
Tip: For deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for 30 minutes to an hour in the fridge. If you’re short on time, even a quick rub before grilling works wonders.
Step 2: Heat Up the Grill
Preheat your BBQ grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, make sure the coals are glowing with a hint of ash. For a gas grill, let it heat up for 10–15 minutes with the lid closed.
Pro tip: Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Step 3: Grill with Love
Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down first. Cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce mixed with honey or maple syrup. Close the lid to let the sauce caramelize slightly.
Tips for perfection:
- Turn the chicken only once to keep it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 165°F (74°C) is ideal.
- Keep a spray bottle of water nearby in case of flare-ups.
Step 4: Serve with Holiday Flair
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This locks in the juices and keeps every bite tender. Arrange on a festive platter with rosemary sprigs, sliced citrus, or pomegranate seeds for a Christmas-worthy presentation.
Serve alongside:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Cranberry relish or tangy slaw
Step 5: Tips to Wow Your Guests
- Sweet & Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your BBQ sauce for a subtle kick.
- Smoky Flavor: Toss in a few wood chips on a charcoal grill for that authentic smoky aroma.
- Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before to save time and enhance flavor.
- Glaze Again: Serve extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Final Thoughts
Christmas BBQ chicken is a delicious departure from the usual holiday fare. Juicy, flavorful, and beautifully caramelized, it’s perfect for a festive gathering or a casual family dinner. Your friends and family will be impressed—and asking for your secret recipe.
Save this recipe for later and make your holiday BBQ unforgettable!
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