Imagine a summer evening, the sweet aroma of BBQ chicken and sausages sizzling on the grill, wafting through the air like an irresistible invitation to gather around. Each bite promises a symphony of smoky flavors complemented by juicy tenderness, making it impossible to resist reaching for just one more piece.
I still remember those backyard barbecues as a kid, where laughter mixed with the savory scents of grilled goodness, creating memories that linger like the taste of perfectly charred meat. Whether it’s a casual weekend hangout or a festive celebration, this mouthwatering duo transforms any occasion into a flavor-packed adventure that leaves everyone craving more.
Why Does Everyone Love BBQ chicken and sausages?
Juicy chicken thighs and savory sausages create a mouthwatering combo that’s hard to resist. Quick prep time of just 15 minutes means you can get straight to grilling! Rich, smoky flavors from your favorite BBQ sauce elevate every bite, making it a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for summer cookouts or family gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different sausage varieties. Plus, with a total cook time of only 30 minutes, you’ll have more time to enjoy the company of friends and family!
BBQ chicken and sausages Ingredients
- For the Chicken
- 4 pieces Chicken thighs – Bone-in, skin-on is preferred for juicy, flavorful meat that stands up well to grilling.
- For the Sausages
- 4 pieces Sausages – Choose any variety you enjoy, from spicy to mild, for a fantastic flavor complement.
- For the BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce – Use your favorite brand to enhance the smoky, sweet taste of the BBQ chicken and sausages.
Step-by-Step BBQ chicken and sausages
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Get your grill nice and hot, ideally around 375°F to 450°F, to achieve that perfect char on your BBQ chicken and sausages.
2. Coat the chicken and sausages with BBQ sauce.
Generously slather 4 pieces of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and 4 sausages with your favorite BBQ sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
3. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
With the grill sizzling, lay down those chicken thighs, turning them every few minutes until they are beautifully caramelized and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Add the sausages to the grill and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until fully cooked.
Once the chicken is nearly done, nestle in those sausages for another 10 minutes, allowing them to soak up all that smoky goodness.
5. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
After grilling perfection is achieved, take everything off the heat and let it rest for a moment—this helps juices redistribute for even more mouthwatering bites.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for an extra zing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips for BBQ chicken and sausages
- Choose the Right Meat: Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. They hold up well on the grill alongside your favorite sausages.
- Don’t Skip the Sauce: Generously coat both chicken and sausages with BBQ sauce before grilling. This not only adds flavor but helps create that beautiful caramelized crust.
- Watch the Heat: Keep your grill at medium-high heat. Too hot can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, especially with chicken.
- Timing Matters: Start grilling chicken first since it takes longer. Add sausages about 10 minutes before you finish to ensure everything is perfectly cooked together.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow grilled BBQ chicken and sausages to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps juices redistribute, resulting in more tender bites.
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. Make sure they’ve cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the BBQ chicken and sausages tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen BBQ chicken and sausages overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
- BBQ Sauce: If you have leftover BBQ sauce, store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it in ice cube trays for easy portioning later!
BBQ chicken and sausages Your Way
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful dish to suit your taste buds!
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a fiery twist. This extra heat will tantalize your taste buds and make each bite unforgettable.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the BBQ sauce. This adds an aromatic layer that complements the smoky flavors beautifully, elevating your grilling experience.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some lemon or lime juice into the marinade. The acidity brightens the dish, balancing the richness of the chicken and sausages perfectly.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked sausages instead of regular ones for an added depth of flavor. The smoky essence will enhance the overall BBQ experience, making it even more enjoyable.
- Sweet Twist: Try adding honey or brown sugar to your BBQ sauce for a sweet glaze. This caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a sticky, mouthwatering finish.
- Veggie Boost: Grill some bell peppers and onions alongside your meats. These charred veggies add color and texture, making every bite more delightful.
- Gluten-Free Option: Choose gluten-free sausages and BBQ sauce to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. You can still enjoy this delicious dish worry-free!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing BBQ chicken and sausages in advance is a fantastic way to save time while still enjoying a delicious meal. You can marinate the 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and the 4 sausages in your favorite 1 cup of BBQ sauce up to 24 hours ahead of grilling. Simply coat the meat thoroughly with the sauce and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. On grilling day, simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat, place the marinated chicken on the grill for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally; then add the sausages for an additional 10 minutes until everything is perfectly cooked. Remember to let them rest for a few minutes before serving to maintain their juiciness. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time but also enhances the flavor of your BBQ chicken and sausages!
BBQ chicken and sausages Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for the best flavor and moisture. The skin crisps up beautifully on the grill, adding a delightful texture to each bite. If you prefer, you can substitute with drumsticks or even chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I use different types of sausages?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to choose any variety of sausages you love—Italian, bratwurst, or even spicy chorizo can add a unique twist. Just ensure they are fully cooked before serving, which typically takes about 10 minutes on the grill.
How should I store leftovers from this BBQ chicken and sausages meal?
If you have any leftovers (although it’s hard to imagine that happening!), let them cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, simply place them back on the grill for a few minutes to regain that delicious char.
Can I freeze BBQ chicken and sausages?
Yes! You can freeze both the grilled chicken and sausages for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cool before sealing them in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the grill or in the oven until heated through.
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice uneven cooking, it might be due to varying thicknesses or cold spots on your grill. To troubleshoot, try turning the pieces more frequently—every 5 minutes is a good rule of thumb. Also, using a meat thermometer can help; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
What’s a good serving size for this recipe?
This BBQ chicken and sausages recipe serves about 4 people comfortably. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying meal without overindulging. Feel free to pair it with sides like coleslaw or grilled veggies for a complete feast!
BBQ Chicken and Sausages
Ingredients Â
MethodÂ
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Coat the chicken and sausages with BBQ sauce.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Add the sausages to the grill and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until fully cooked.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
