BBQ Chicken Thighs New Jersey Style

Introduction

Grilling the perfect BBQ chicken thighs just got better—New Jersey style! With the Arteflame grill, you get that steakhouse-quality sear at over 1,000°F on the center grate and a slow, flavorful finish on the flat cooktop. This BBQ chicken recipe uses reverse searing to lock in juices and develop incredible flavor, making it ideal for summer cookouts and weekend feasts. Plus, no lids or pans are needed—the Arteflame does it all.

Ingredients

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 1/2 cups of your favorite BBQ sauce (sweet, spicy, or smoky)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for grilling)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Place three paper napkins in the grill bowl and pour a small amount of vegetable oil on them.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. In about 20 minutes, the grill will be hot—perfect for searing and cooking all at once.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

1. Mix the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Coat the chicken thighs thoroughly with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Sear the chicken

1. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the center grill grate for a high-heat sear.
2. Sear each thigh for 2-3 minutes until the skin is crisp and caramelized.

Step 4: Finish on the flat cooktop

1. Move the seared thighs to the outer flat cooktop griddle, hot side closer to the center.
2. Place a small pat of butter under each thigh for added richness.
3. Cook the chicken until internal temperature reaches about 160°F.
4. Remove from the grill when internal temperature is 160°F, as it will carry over to 175°F when resting.

Step 5: Rest & garnish

1. Let chicken rest 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• Always sear first on the center grate to lock in juices.
• Use butter instead of oil on the cooktop—tastier and perfect for grilling.
• Don’t skip the rest period—it's the secret to juicy chicken thighs.
• Monitor internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
• Grill your sides (corn, veggies, potatoes) at the same time on cooler sections of the flat top.

Variations

1. Spicy Sriracha Thighs: Add sriracha and chili flakes to the BBQ marinade for a hot kick.
2. Maple Bourbon Glaze: Mix BBQ sauce with maple syrup and a splash of bourbon for a sweet + smoky combo.
3. Lemon Herb Chicken: Swap BBQ sauce for lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and olive oil for Mediterranean vibes.
4. Korean BBQ Thighs: Use gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and honey for bold, umami-rich flavor.
5. Mustard BBQ Thighs: Use tangy Carolina-style mustard BBQ sauce for a zesty option.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Thighs New Jersey Style is the ultimate way to enjoy juicy, perfectly grilled chicken packed with bold BBQ flavor. Using the Arteflame grill ensures your meat gets that high-temp sear while finishing gently to the perfect temperature on the flat top. It’s easy, fast, and unforgettable.

Best pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter and paprika
• Smoked mac & cheese, warmed directly on the flat cooktop
• Arteflame-grilled peaches or pineapple for dessert
• Classic coleslaw or potato salad
• Craft beer or iced sweet tea