Description

Get ready to fire up the grill with this zesty and smoky 4th July Lemon BBQ Grilled Chicken! This dish is all about celebrating freedom, flavor, and good company. Tender chicken is marinated in a tangy lemon-infused BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection for a juicy, caramelized bite every time. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a cozy family cookout, this recipe is your ticket to a memorable Independence Day feast.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder

For the Lemon BBQ Marinade:

½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
Juice of 2 lemons
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
2 cloves garlic, minced

For Garnish & Serving:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Grilled corn, coleslaw, or potato salad (optional sides)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces with paper towels.
Rub them with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Set aside while preparing the marinade.

Step 2: Make the Lemon BBQ Marinade
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, and minced garlic.
5. Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade for basting later.
6. Pour the rest over the chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl.
7. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken
8. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
9. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
10. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
11. Grill chicken skin-side down for 6-8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes.
12. Use the reserved marinade to baste the chicken during the last few minutes for extra flavor and a glossy finish.
13. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve
14. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling.
15. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
16. Serve hot with your favorite sides like grilled corn, coleslaw, or potato salad.

Notes

Marinate Long Enough – At least 1 hour helps the flavors soak in; overnight is even better.
Use a Thermometer – Avoid guesswork and ensure your chicken is fully cooked.
Keep the Grill Clean – Prevent flare-ups and sticking by starting with a clean grill grate.
Baste Carefully – Only use reserved marinade to avoid cross-contamination.
Let it Rest – Resting allows the juices to redistribute for tender, juicy bites.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American