Summer is finally upon us, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill and celebrate the sunshine with juicy, flavorful BBQ marinated chicken. This mouthwatering recipe brings together a delightful blend of ingredients that create tender and succulent chicken, perfect for summer gatherings, family barbecues, or simply enjoying a meal outdoors. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow guide on how to grill the perfect BBQ marinated chicken!

Why This Grill The Perfect BBQ Marinated Chicken Summer Is Here! Stands Out

This recipe stands out because it combines simplicity with bold flavors. The marinade is not just a mix of random ingredients; it’s a well-balanced combination that enhances the natural taste of the chicken while adding a delightful sweetness and tanginess. The inclusion of honey provides a touch of sweetness, while the mustard and capers bring in a savory element that makes every bite a flavor explosion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the lovely summer weather and less time in the kitchen.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this BBQ marinated chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 ounce honey – Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken on the grill.
3 tablespoons mayonnaise – Offers creaminess and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.
1 tablespoon French mustard – Brings a tangy kick to the marinade.
1 tablespoon capers – Adds a salty, briny flavor that enhances the overall taste.
1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped – Provides freshness and a pop of color.
1 lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
2 garlic, minced – Infuses the marinade with aromatic goodness.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps to keep the chicken moist while grilling.
3 pounds chicken, cut into pieces – The star of the show; choose your favorite cuts!

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Grill – A gas or charcoal grill works perfectly for this recipe.
Mixing bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
Whisk or fork – To mix the marinade thoroughly.
Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
Grilling tongs – For easy flipping and handling of the chicken on the grill.

Stepwise Method: Grill The Perfect BBQ Marinated Chicken Summer Is Here!

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, mayonnaise, French mustard, capers, chopped parsley, lemon juice, minced garlic, and olive oil. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing and covered with ash.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down if using skin-on pieces. Grill for about 5-7 minutes, then flip and continue to grill for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy bite. Serve your BBQ marinated chicken with your favorite summer sides and enjoy!

Holiday-Friendly Variations

Looking to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations to try:

Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers: Cut chicken into cubes and thread onto skewers for fun, bite-sized pieces.
Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Chicken: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a fresh twist.
Grilled Chicken Salad: After grilling, slice the chicken and toss it on a bed of mixed greens with your favorite salad toppings.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

When grilling chicken, it’s essential to keep a close eye on the grill temperature. Too high heat can lead to burnt outsides and raw insides, while too low will prevent that delicious charred flavor. Don’t be afraid to adjust the heat as needed and use a meat thermometer to ensure you achieve the perfect doneness.

For even more flavor, consider adding citrus zest from the lemon into the marinade.
If you have leftover marinade, you can use it as a basting sauce while grilling – just make sure to set aside some before adding it to the raw chicken.
Feel free to pair the chicken with grilled veggies for a complete meal!

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you have leftover grilled chicken (which is rare, but can happen), here are some storing tips:

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
To reheat, place the chicken in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or heat it gently on the grill.

Quick Questions

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs will work perfectly. Just adjust the cooking time, as they may cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more. Just be careful not to marinate too long as the acid from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much.

What sides pair well with BBQ chicken?

Grilled corn on the cob, coleslaw, and potato salad are classic choices. You can also serve with a fresh garden salad or baked beans for a complete meal.

Can I use the marinade for other meats?

Yes! This marinade is versatile and can also be used for pork or turkey, giving them a delicious flavor boost as well.

Healthy-ish Favorites

Make It Tonight

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge to grill the perfect BBQ marinated chicken, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients and equipment, and enjoy a delightful summer evening filled with great flavors and even better company. Don’t forget to snap some photos of your delicious creation to share with family and friends. Happy grilling!

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