Hickory BBQ Chicken Made Easy on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Hickory BBQ chicken is one of those classic backyard dishes that never goes out of style. Grilling it on the Arteflame brings out deep, smoky flavors while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Whether you're cooking for a weekend gathering or simply craving wood-fired chicken, this recipe delivers a simple, reliable method with rich results. The combination of hickory smoke and caramelized barbecue sauce makes it a standout dish for any outdoor cook.

This guide walks you through everything you need for perfect hickory BBQ chicken on the Arteflame grill, including essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and serving ideas. It's designed for anyone searching for a flavorful, approachable grilled chicken recipe.

Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in chicken drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

BBQ and Smoke

• 1 cup hickory wood chips
• 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. Rub with olive oil to help the seasoning stick.
3. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder and coat the chicken evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the grill

1. Heat the Arteflame grill to medium-high.
2. Soak hickory chips for 20 minutes, then drain.
3. Add the wood chips to the fire to create smoke.

Step 3: Start grilling

1. Place chicken on the outer flat cooktop for a steady sear.
2. Cook 6–8 minutes per side until browned.
3. Move pieces closer to the center grill grate to finish.

Step 4: Add sauce

1. Mix BBQ sauce with honey if desired.
2. Brush the chicken generously.
3. Cook 5 more minutes to let the glaze caramelize.

Step 5: Finish and rest

1. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
2. Remove from heat and rest for 5 minutes.
3. Serve with extra sauce if desired.

Tips

Cooking hickory BBQ chicken on the Arteflame grill is straightforward, but a few small adjustments can make a big difference in flavor and texture. Focus on heat control, smoke quality, and sauce timing to achieve that ideal balance of smokiness and caramelization. Letting the chicken rest at the end also keeps it juicy and flavorful. These simple techniques elevate your results without adding complexity.

• Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to manage flare-ups.
• Brush sauce during the last few minutes to avoid burning.
• Use a thermometer for accurate doneness.
• Rotate pieces as needed for even cooking.

Variations

If you enjoy experimenting with flavor, this recipe adapts well to different seasonings and sauces. Hickory pairs wonderfully with sweet, spicy, or tangy profiles, making it easy to tailor the dish to any occasion or preference. Whether you favor heat, citrus, or regional BBQ styles, you can customize the chicken without changing the core method.

• Use a spicy BBQ sauce for a kick.
• Swap paprika for chipotle powder.
• Add lemon zest for bright flavor.
• Try a Carolina-style mustard sauce.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey.

Best pairings

This hickory BBQ chicken shines when paired with fresh, flavorful sides that balance its smoky richness. Think crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or classic BBQ staples that complement the tender grilled chicken. These combinations create a satisfying and well-rounded outdoor meal.

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Coleslaw or cabbage salad
• Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Grilled vegetables like zucchini or peppers
• Fresh cornbread or rolls

Conclusion

Hickory BBQ chicken on the Arteflame grill offers a simple, rewarding way to enjoy rich, smoky flavors at home. With just a few ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this recipe fits perfectly into any backyard cookout or family dinner.

Whether you're an experienced griller or trying wood-fired cooking for the first time, this dish brings bold taste and dependable results. Enjoy the juicy chicken, the caramelized glaze, and the unmistakable aroma of hickory smoke.