Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering culinary adventure with this irresistible Chili Rubbed Chicken with Barbecue! Imagine tender, juicy chicken thighs with a perfectly crispy exterior, packed with bold, spicy flavors that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds. This recipe isn't just a meal; it's a flavor journey that combines the smoky depth of chili rub with the sweet and tangy notes of barbecue sauce, creating a dish that's both simple to prepare and incredibly impressive.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons chili rub
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- In a small bowl, mix chili rub with salt and pepper, creating a uniform seasoning blend.
- Generously coat each chicken thigh with the chili rub mixture, ensuring all surfaces are evenly covered.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and is hot.
- Place seasoned chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot pan, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust for about 6-7 minutes.
- Flip chicken thighs and cook the other side for an additional 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 3 minutes of cooking, brush chicken with barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Serve hot, with additional barbecue sauce on the side for dipping if desired.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Pat your chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels to achieve that coveted golden-brown crust.
- Even Seasoning is Key: Mix your chili rub thoroughly and coat the chicken generously, making sure every inch is covered for maximum flavor.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For the best sear and most even cooking, a cast-iron skillet is your best friend in this recipe.
- Don't Rush the Caramelization: When adding barbecue sauce, let it slightly caramelize to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Rest Your Meat: Always let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices and ensure maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 329kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 27g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 93mg
