Imagine the sizzling sound of BBQ chicken and sausages dancing over an open flame, their smoky aroma wafting through the air, promising a flavor explosion that makes your taste buds tingle with excitement. With every bite, the tender chicken melts in your mouth while the juicy sausages burst with savory goodness, creating a symphony of flavors that beckons you to indulge.
There’s something magical about gathering around the grill on a sunny afternoon, laughter filling the air as friends and family come together to savor this delightful feast. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy picnic, BBQ chicken and sausages elevate any occasion, turning ordinary moments into unforgettable memories filled with joy and deliciousness.
Why Will You Keep Making BBQ chicken and sausages?
Irresistible flavor comes from the perfect blend of juicy chicken thighs and savory sausages, making every bite a delight. Quick prep time of just 15 minutes means you can whip this up any day of the week. Grill-friendly cooking in only 30 minutes allows for easy outdoor entertaining. Versatile options let you customize with your favorite sausage flavors, catering to all taste buds. Plus, crowd-pleasing appeal ensures your gatherings will be a hit!
Ingredients for BBQ chicken and sausages
- For the Meat
4 pieces Chicken thighs (Bone-in, skin-on) – These juicy thighs will absorb all the flavors, making your BBQ chicken and sausages irresistibly delicious.
4 links Sausages (Your choice of flavor) – Choose your favorite sausage variety to complement the smoky BBQ goodness.
- For the BBQ Sauce
1 cup BBQ sauce (For marinating and basting) – A rich BBQ sauce enhances the savory flavors and keeps the meat tender and moist during grilling.
Step-by-Step BBQ chicken and sausages
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Ensure your grill is nice and hot, around 400°F (200°C), to get those beautiful grill marks on your chicken thighs and sausages.
2. Marinate the chicken thighs in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes.
Coat the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs thoroughly in 1 cup of BBQ sauce, allowing them to absorb that smoky flavor while you prepare the sausages.
3. Prepare the sausages by pricking them with a fork.
Gently prick each of the 4 sausage links a few times; this helps prevent them from bursting on the grill while allowing their delicious juices to escape.
4. Cook the marinated chicken thighs on the grill for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
Place the chicken thighs skin-side down first for that crispy texture, turning them every few minutes until they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add the sausages to the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning until evenly browned.
Once the chicken is well on its way, place your sausage links alongside them, turning frequently to achieve that perfect golden-brown color all around.
Optional: Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Chicken Thighs Choice: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for juiciness; they hold moisture well during grilling compared to boneless options.
- Marination Time: Allow at least 30 minutes for marinating in BBQ sauce; this enhances flavor and tenderness. Longer marination yields even better results!
- Prick the Sausages: Remember to prick sausages with a fork before grilling; this prevents them from bursting and ensures even cooking throughout.
- Grill Temperature Check: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat; too low can lead to dry chicken and undercooked sausages.
- Turning Technique: Turn the chicken thighs every 5-7 minutes for even browning, avoiding sticking; this will help achieve that perfect BBQ chicken and sausages experience.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ chicken and sausages
- Fridge: Store leftover BBQ chicken and sausages in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the BBQ chicken and sausages tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes, ensuring they stay juicy.
BBQ chicken and sausages Your Way
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this dish to perfectly suit your family’s taste buds!
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for an extra layer of heat. This fiery twist will elevate the flavor profile, making each bite exciting and bold.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh chopped rosemary or thyme with the BBQ sauce to bring a lovely aromatic touch. These herbs will add freshness, enhancing the overall grilling experience.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked sausage varieties instead of regular ones for a deeper, richer taste. The smoky essence will complement the chicken beautifully, offering a delightful barbecue aroma that fills the air.
- Sweet & Tangy: Incorporate honey or maple syrup into the BBQ sauce for a sweet contrast to the savory meats. This will create a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
- Zesty Citrus: Squeeze some fresh lemon or lime juice into the BBQ sauce for a burst of brightness. The citrus notes will cut through the richness, adding a refreshing twist to each bite.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken thighs with portobello mushrooms and use plant-based sausages for a hearty alternative. Grill them just like you would with meat, allowing all those delicious flavors to develop.
- Asian Fusion: Replace regular BBQ sauce with teriyaki or hoisin sauce for an Asian-inspired twist. This variation will introduce unique umami flavors that pair wonderfully with grilled chicken and sausages.
- Mediterranean Touch: Marinate your meat in olive oil, garlic, and oregano before grilling for an Italian flair. The herbs will infuse lovely Mediterranean notes that make this dish truly unforgettable.
Make Ahead Options
This BBQ chicken and sausages recipe is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor mouthwatering flavors without the last-minute hustle. You can marinate the chicken thighs in BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak up all that delicious goodness. Additionally, you can prepare the sausages by pricking them with a fork ahead of time, making your grilling day smoother. On the day of grilling, simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat, place the marinated chicken on the grill for 20-25 minutes while turning occasionally, and add the sausages for the last 10-15 minutes until they are perfectly browned. This way, you can enjoy your BBQ chicken and sausages with minimal effort on busy days while maintaining their juicy quality!
BBQ chicken and sausages Recipe FAQs
What type of BBQ sauce works best for marinating?
Choosing a BBQ sauce can greatly influence the flavor of your dish. For a sweet and smoky flavor, look for sauces that contain ingredients like brown sugar or honey. If you prefer a tangy bite, opt for vinegar-based sauces. Feel free to experiment with homemade options, too! Just make sure to marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors sink in.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster than bone-in ones. If you choose boneless, aim for a grill time of about 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The juicy nature of thighs will still keep your BBQ chicken tender and flavorful!
How should I store leftovers from this BBQ chicken and sausages recipe?
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the grill when you’re ready to enjoy again. This is perfect for quick meals throughout the week!
Is it possible to freeze the cooked BBQ chicken and sausages?
Yes, you can freeze both the cooked chicken thighs and sausages! Ensure they are cooled down, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain quality in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat!
What should I serve with my BBQ chicken and sausages?
These grilled delights pair wonderfully with classic sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. For something lighter, consider serving with a fresh garden salad or corn on the cob. Each side complements those smoky flavors beautifully!
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 4 hearty servings—perfect for a family gathering or a cozy weekend barbecue! With about 350 calories per serving, you’ll have satisfied bellies without overindulging. Enjoy sharing this delicious feast!
BBQ Chicken and Sausages
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Marinate the chicken thighs in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the sausages by pricking them with a fork.
- Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Add the sausages to the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning until evenly browned.
