If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying dish that’s both flavorful and keto-friendly, look no further than Low-Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs. This recipe is a perfect blend of smoky barbecue flavor with tender, juicy chicken thighs that are grilled to perfection. Growing up, I always associated BBQ chicken with summer cookouts and family gatherings. However, as I started following a keto lifestyle, I needed a low-carb version that didn't compromise on taste.
These Low-Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs became a favorite of mine because they’re not only low in carbs but also incredibly juicy and full of flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, this recipe will definitely be a hit at your table.
Why You’ll Love Low-Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs
- Keto-Friendly: No sugars or carbs from traditional BBQ sauce, this recipe uses a sugar-free version.
- Juicy and Tender: Chicken thighs stay moist and tender, thanks to the higher fat content compared to chicken breasts.
- Quick & Easy: Prep and cook time are minimal, making this recipe a great option for a busy weeknight meal.
- Versatile: These BBQ chicken thighs can be served with a variety of low-carb sides such as roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a simple salad.
- Grill or Oven-Friendly: Whether you prefer grilling outdoors or using the oven, this recipe works well with both methods.
This Low-Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe combines tender chicken thighs with a homemade sugar-free BBQ sauce. It's a low-carb and keto-friendly dish that's perfect for anyone looking to indulge in BBQ flavors without breaking their diet. Whether you're grilling them outside or cooking them in the oven, these chicken thighs cook to perfection, offering a delicious, smoky flavor in every bite. You can enjoy them with your favorite low-carb sides for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: Keto, Low-Carb, BBQ
Ingredients List
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Grill or Oven:
- If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- If using the oven, preheat to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Drizzle with olive oil and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the spices evenly over the chicken thighs for full flavor. - Grill the Chicken:
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- If baking, place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Apply the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the sugar-free BBQ sauce over the chicken thighs, coating them generously. Allow the sauce to caramelize slightly by cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes. - Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
Storage Options
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the grill.
Cooking Times & Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 270 per serving
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Net Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
These Low-Carb BBQ Chicken Thighs are a great way to enjoy all the smoky, tangy flavors of BBQ while sticking to your keto lifestyle. The tender chicken thighs paired with a sugar-free BBQ sauce will quickly become a family favorite. I’d love for you to try this recipe, and if you do, please leave a review and share your results! If you enjoyed this recipe, follow me on social media for more low-carb and keto-friendly ideas. Share the love, and don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!