Nebraska Smoky BBQ Chicken Thighs on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Get ready to experience the most flavorful and juicy BBQ chicken thighs you've ever had. Using the Arteflame Grill, we will sear the chicken to lock in juices and then bring it to perfect doneness on the flat cooktop. A homemade smoky BBQ sauce adds an irresistible, rich flavor. Follow these steps to create mouthwatering, smoky BBQ chicken that will impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup homemade smoky BBQ sauce
• Wood for fire

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the grill.
3. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the wood to burn for about 20 minutes until hot and ready.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Pat dry the chicken thighs.
2. Rub each thigh with butter for added flavor.
3. Season generously with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Place the chicken skin-side down onto the center grill grate where the heat is at 1,000°F.
2. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.
3. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the seared chicken to the flat griddle cooktop to continue cooking.
2. Cook slowly, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
3. Baste with BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches 160°F (it will continue cooking to 175°F off the grill).
2. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
3. Serve with extra BBQ sauce and your favorite sides.

Tips

• Always let the meat rest after grilling to allow juices to redistribute.
• Use wood with a mild flavor like oak or hickory for the best smoky taste.
• Cook your side dishes on the flat top while grilling the chicken to save time.

Variations

• Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
• Honey Mustard BBQ Chicken: Mix honey and mustard into the BBQ sauce for a sweet twist.
• Garlic Herb Chicken: Add fresh minced garlic and thyme for a more aromatic dish.
• Asian BBQ Chicken: Use a teriyaki-based BBQ sauce with sesame seeds.
• Maple Glazed BBQ Chicken: Brush with maple syrup during the last few minutes of grilling.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Coleslaw
• Baked beans
• Grilled sweet potatoes
• Fresh cornbread

Conclusion

Grilling Nebraska-style smoky BBQ chicken thighs on the Arteflame Grill is easy, flavorful, and fun. The perfect sear and slow-cooked finish result in juicy, smoky, and mouthwatering chicken. Enjoy this delicious meal with your family and friends.