Stove-Top Barbecue Chicken

Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preferred level of spiciness.

For a smokier flavor, add a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce.

Serve the barbecue chicken on toasted buns, rolls, or in tortillas.

Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a sweeter flavor.

What is tomatillo salsa?

Tomatillo salsa is a green salsa made from tomatillos, a small green fruit, with a tangy and slightly citrusy flavor. You can use another type of salsa, green enchilada sauce, or even pico de gallo in place of it.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

You can use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs, but be mindful of cooking time as chicken breast tends to cook faster and can become dry if overcooked.

What can I substitute for hot sauce?

You can substitute hot sauce with a combination of tomato sauce and spices like cayenne pepper, chili powder, or paprika for a milder option.

How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?

To prevent the chicken from drying out, make sure not to overcook it. Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

What toppings can I serve with the barbecue chicken?

You can serve the barbecue chicken with toppings like shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, sliced onions, cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.

Is it necessary to use a Dutch oven for this recipe?

While a Dutch oven is recommended for this recipe, you can also use a deep skillet or a saucepan with a lid to cook the chicken on the stove-top.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can make the stove-top barbecue chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove-top or in the microwave before serving.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover barbecue chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. You can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2-3 months.

Can I add additional seasonings to the chicken?

You can adjust the seasoning of the barbecue chicken by adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or cumin to taste.

Dutch Oven: For cooking the chicken thighs in the hot sauce and butter mixture.

Measuring Cups: For accurately measuring the hot sauce (and butter if you're not using the stick kind).

Tongs: Helpful for turning and coating the chicken thighs in the hot sauce mixture while cooking.

Forks: For shredding the cooked chicken thighs before adding the tomatillo salsa.

BBQ Chicken Pizza: Spread BBQ sauce over a pizza crust, top with shredded BBQ chicken, red onions, cilantro, and mozzarella cheese. Bake until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.

BBQ Chicken Tacos: Fill soft or hard taco shells with shredded BBQ chicken, and top with coleslaw, avocado slices, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Peppers: Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with shredded BBQ chicken mixed with cooked rice or quinoa. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender.

BBQ Chicken Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with shredded BBQ chicken, black beans, corn, jalapeños, and cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, then top with sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.

BBQ Chicken Quesadillas: Place shredded BBQ chicken and cheese between two tortillas. Cook in a skillet until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve with sour cream and salsa.

BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Bake or microwave sweet potatoes until tender. Split them open and fill them with shredded BBQ chicken. Top with a dollop of sour cream and chopped green onions.

BBQ Chicken Sliders: Use mini slider buns and layer shredded BBQ chicken with pickles and coleslaw for a bite-sized treat.

BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese: Stir shredded BBQ chicken into a creamy mac and cheese for a smoky, flavorful twist on the classic dish.

BBQ Chicken Dip: Mix shredded BBQ chicken with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and a bit of BBQ sauce. Bake until bubbly and serve with tortilla chips or crackers.

BBQ Chicken Loaded Fries: Top a plate of crispy fries with shredded BBQ chicken, cheese, jalapenos, and a drizzle of ranch dressing or BBQ sauce.