Craving a delicious and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor? These Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Chicken Thighs are incredibly easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner. You’ll love this fresh take on healthy BBQ chicken recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken Thighs: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for quicker cooking, or bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor (adjust cooking time).
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Essential for the tangy flavor; do not substitute with other vinegars.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce to keep it healthy.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth; regular paprika works in a pinch.
- Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic can be used instead (about 1-2 cloves).
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1.5 – 2 lbs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup prepared BBQ sauce (low-sugar recommended)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 (varies based on BBQ sauce choice)
- Tools Needed: Large bowl, whisk, baking dish or grill
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This helps create a flavorful crust.
2. Mix the BBQ Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Whisk until all the ingredients are well blended. This forms your tangy sauce.
3. Marinate or Coat the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a large bowl or a resealable bag. Pour about half of the apple cider vinegar BBQ sauce over the chicken, tossing to coat thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor. Reserve the other half of the sauce for basting.
4. Cook the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your grill to medium-high heat. If baking, lightly grease a baking dish. If grilling, ensure your grates are clean and oiled.
5. Bake or Grill to Perfection
Arrange the chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish or on the grill. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with the reserved sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra glaze and flavor.
6. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven or grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and delicious.
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
- Herby Touch: Incorporate dried oregano or thyme into your sauce for an aromatic twist.
- Sweet and Tangy: A spoonful of honey or a splash of orange juice can enhance the sweetness.
- Grilled Pineapple: Grill pineapple slices alongside your chicken for a sweet and tropical side.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave, oven, or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make these chicken thighs ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in advance. You can also cook the chicken and reheat it later.
Are these Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Chicken Thighs truly healthy?
Yes, using lean chicken thighs and a low-sugar BBQ sauce makes this a great option for healthy BBQ chicken recipes.
What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Consider serving with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, quinoa, or brown rice for a complete meal.
Can you use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster and can dry out more easily.
How do you prevent the chicken from drying out?
Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken and let it rest after cooking. Basting with sauce also helps keep it moist.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
Marinating adds more flavor, but if you’re short on time, simply coating the chicken with the sauce before cooking will still yield delicious results.
