Description
A simple and flavorful BBQ Chicken recipe combining juicy chicken pieces with a vibrant, smoky, and tangy sauce enhanced by natural gelling agents and plant-based twists. Perfectly suited for grilling, baking, or slow cooking, it provides a tender, juicy meal that brings family and friends together with easy preparation and versatile variations.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4–6 chicken pieces (thighs or breasts)
Marinade and Sauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (natural)
- 3 tbsp tomato paste (natural)
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp natural gelling agent
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or cilantro), chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine apple cider vinegar (natural), brown sugar (natural), tomato paste (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, smoked paprika, and olive oil. Whisk until smooth, then stir in the natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken and coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat and Cook: For grilling, preheat to medium-high heat. Cook chicken 6-7 minutes per side, brushing occasionally with extra sauce. For baking, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), place chicken in baking dish, and bake 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze and Finish: During last 5 minutes of cooking, brush an additional thick layer of the sauce onto the chicken for a shiny, sticky finish.
- Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to seal in juices. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken long enough to maximize flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust paprika and spices to control the heat level to your preference.
- Dissolve the natural gelling agent in a little warm water before mixing for a smooth sauce texture.
- Do not overcrowd the grill or pan to ensure even cooking and a good char.
- Rest the chicken after cooking to redistribute juices for juicier results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken piece with sauce
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: BBQ chicken, baked chicken, grilled chicken, smoky chicken, plant-based BBQ sauce, gluten free BBQ