Crispy Smoky BBQ Chicken Bites

Crispy Smoky BBQ Chicken Bites

Discover this copycat recipe for Crispy Smoky BBQ Chicken Bites and bring the nostalgia of street food classics to your next Friday-night tailgate or backyard gathering.

🕒 (Prep, Cook, Total): Prep: 25 min, Cook: 10 min, Total: 35 min
🍽 Servings: 2 (as an appetizer)
🔥 Difficulty: Intermediate
🌎 Cuisine: American BBQ

Allergens

Contains gluten and soy if using store-bought BBQ sauce.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (preferably homemade)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Wood chips (such as hickory or mesquite)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or smoker to medium high heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to make the dry rub.
  3. Cut the chicken thighs into 1 inch cubes.
  4. Apply a generous layer of the dry rub to each chicken bite, ensuring they are well coated.
  5. Soak wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before placing them on your grill or smoker. This will add a smoky flavor to your chicken bites.
  6. Place chicken bites on skewers and cook over direct heat for 8 10 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked and slightly charred.
  7. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to achieve a glossy, sticky finish.

Chef’s Insight

To achieve that perfect char on your chicken bites, watch for the white meat to turn slightly pink and the edges to curl up.

Notes

Adjust the spiciness of your BBQ sauce to suit your taste preference.

Cultural or Historical Background

This recipe is inspired by the famous street food classic BBQ chicken found across America, with a creative twist using our smoky spice blend and grilling technique.