Welcome BBQ enthusiasts! Get ready to elevate your grilling game with our ultimate guide on how to master the art of BBQ Chicken Littles. In this blog post, we will be diving into the secrets and techniques shared by HowToBBQRight Shorts, a renowned authority in the world of barbecuing. From selecting the right cuts of chicken to marinating and grilling it to perfection, we’ll cover it all, ensuring your next barbecue session is a sizzling success. So, fire up your grills and get ready to impress your family and friends with mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Littles that will leave them longing for more. Let’s dive in!

Introduction

Barbecue chicken is a classic favorite for many grilling enthusiasts. Its rich flavors and mouthwatering aroma make it a staple at backyard cookouts and gatherings. If you’re looking to take your barbecue chicken game to the next level, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll dive into the art of making BBQ Chicken Littles – a delicious twist on traditional barbecue chicken. Let’s get started!

Gas station find: Barbecue Chicken Littles

Have you ever come across a hidden gem at a gas station? Well, one day on a road trip, I stumbled upon an amazing treat called Barbecue Chicken Littles. These tender and juicy delights instantly won my heart, and I knew I had to try and recreate them at home.

Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs

The key to creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Littles lies in using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. The dark meat of chicken thighs provides a richer flavor and retains moisture during the cooking process. It ensures that every bite is succulent and packed with smoky goodness.

Split thighs into two pieces

To make the most out of each chicken thigh, it’s best to split them into two pieces. This allows for a more even cooking and ensures that the flavors penetrate every nook and cranny of the meat.

Season with Mississippi grinds and let sit for 30 minutes

Before getting into the grilling action, it’s essential to season the chicken thighs properly. The Mississippi grinds, a flavorful blend of spices including paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder, will infuse the meat with a sensational kick. Spread the blend generously over the chicken thighs and let them sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to seep in.

Wrap each piece in half a strip of bacon and skewer

Now comes the fun part. Take half a strip of bacon and wrap it around each piece of seasoned chicken. This adds an extra layer of smoky and savory goodness. Secure the bacon in place by skewering the chicken pieces.

Coat with barbecue rub and brown sugar

To achieve a delectable crust on the BBQ Chicken Littles, coat them with a blend of barbecue rub and brown sugar. This combination adds a sweet and slightly tangy flavor profile that complements the smoky notes from the grill.

Cook on a pellet grill at 325 degrees for one hour

Fire up your pellet grill and set the temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the grill reaches the desired temperature, place the bacon-wrapped chicken skewers on the grates. Let them cook for approximately one hour, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Glaze with barbecue sauce

In the last 10 minutes of cooking, generously glaze the BBQ Chicken Littles with your favorite barbecue sauce. Whether you prefer a tangy vinegar-based sauce or a sweet and smoky Kansas City-style sauce, the choice is yours. The glaze imparts a glossy shine to the chicken and adds another layer of sticky, finger-licking goodness.

Serve with extra sauce for dipping

Once the BBQ Chicken Littles are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up. Arrange the skewers on a platter and provide extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and provides the option for guests to customize their sauce levels.

Flavor explosion: Smoked, sweet, and spicy

When you take that first bite into a perfectly cooked BBQ Chicken Little, you’ll experience a flavor explosion. The smoky undertones from the grill, the sweetness from the brown sugar, the spiciness from the Mississippi grinds, and the tanginess of the barbecue sauce all come together to create a harmonious blend of tastes that’ll leave you craving for more.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of BBQ Chicken Littles is a journey well worth embarking on. From selecting the right chicken thighs to infusing them with flavor and expertly grilling them, this culinary adventure is sure to impress your family and friends. So, fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a scrumptious feast of BBQ Chicken Littles!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?

   • While chicken thighs are recommended for their richer flavor and moisture retention, you can certainly use chicken breasts if you prefer. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts tend to dry out quicker on the grill, so be mindful of the cooking time.

2. What other seasonings can I use instead of Mississippi grinds?

   • If you’d like to experiment with different flavors, you can try using a dry rub of your choice. Popular options include Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, or a simple salt and pepper blend.

3. Can I cook BBQ Chicken Littles in the oven?

   • Absolutely! While grilling adds a smoky flavor, you can achieve similar results in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the chicken skewers for approximately 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

4. What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Littles?

   • BBQ Chicken Littles go well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

5. Can I make BBQ Chicken Littles ahead of time?

   • Sure! You can prepare the seasoned and bacon-wrapped chicken skewers ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.