BBQ Chicken Bites: Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Thighs Seasoned with Savory BBQ Rub for Ultimate Flavor
How to Make BBQ Chicken Littles: A Delicious Recipe
Are you ready to elevate your BBQ game? Look no further! This BBQ Chicken Littles recipe features succulent bacon-wrapped chicken thighs, coated with a mouthwatering BBQ rub and brown sugar, then smoked to perfection on a pellet grill. It’s an easy dinner idea that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work best for this recipe.
- Bacon: Smoked bacon adds a rich flavor.
- BBQ Rub: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ rub.
- Brown Sugar: For that sweet caramelized finish.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that suits your taste, whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy.
Optional Ingredients:
- Wood Pellets: Hickory or apple wood pellets enhance the smoker’s flavor.
- Garlic Powder: For an extra kick.
- Black Pepper: To enhance the seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your pellet grill to about 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Season the Thighs: Rub each chicken thigh generously with your BBQ rub, followed by a sprinkle of brown sugar. This combination will create a delicious crust.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each seasoned chicken thigh. You can secure it with a toothpick if needed.
2. Smoke the Chicken
Once your grill is heated:
- Place the Thighs on the Grill: Arrange the chicken on the grill grates, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly.
- Time to Smoke: Let the chicken thighs smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Add BBQ Sauce
In the final 30 minutes of cooking:
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken thighs. This will create a sticky, flavorful layer that amps up the taste.
- Finish Cooking: Allow the chicken to finish cooking, letting the sauce caramelize slightly.
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Littles
- Experiment with Rubs: Try different BBQ rubs to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Monitor the Temperature: Using a meat thermometer helps ensure perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let It Rest: After removing from the grill, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving to retain its juices.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ Chicken Littles can be served:
- As Sliders: Slice the chicken and serve on small buns with extra BBQ sauce.
- With Sides: Pair them with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete meal.
- For Parties: These bite-sized delights make excellent appetizers for gatherings!
Key Takeaways
- Bacon-Wrapped Goodness: The bacon not only adds flavor but keeps the chicken moist.
- Versatile Recipe: Play around with different BBQ sauces and rubs to suit your palate.
- Smoked to Perfection: Low-temperature smoking on a pellet grill brings out the best flavors.
In conclusion, BBQ Chicken Littles are not just easy to make; they are packed with flavor and sure to be a hit at your next cookout or family dinner. Enjoy exploring the delicious world of BBQ with this incredible recipe!
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