Football weekends are best paired with bold flavors that keep the energy high. Sweet-Heat Barbecue Chicken offers exactly that, combining smoky richness, tangy sweetness, and a hint of heat for a dish that feels tailor-made for football season. Whether you’re cheering with friends on the patio or grilling for family at halftime, this recipe brings the flavor balance that every spread needs.
Unlike ordinary chicken dishes, this one hits the sweet spot between comfort and spice. The glaze locks in tenderness while adding a flavor profile that keeps each bite satisfying and memorable. With minimal effort, you'll have a centerpiece that plays well with sides like grilled veggies, mac and cheese, or classic cornbread.
Outdoor gatherings feel even more spirited when the grill is fired up. The aroma of caramelized barbecue sauce mingling with smoky heat sets the tone long before kickoff. Every piece comes off the grates juicy, flavorful, and ready to fuel a winning afternoon.
At Alfresco Backyard Living, we believe game day meals should be as effortless as they are delicious. We offer premium grills, kitchens, and backyard essentials to make every cookout run smoothly. Explore our full lineup online at www.alfrescobackyard.com, or visit our St. James, New York, showroom to experience it in person. And if you're looking for more recipe ideas and outdoor living tips, don't miss our blog—packed with fresh inspiration for every season.
Serves 8
Sweet-Heat Barbecue Chicken Ingredients
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons butter
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon celery seed
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 dashes of hot pepper sauce
- 2 broiler/fryer chickens (3-1/2 to 4 pounds each), cut up
Sweet-Heat Barbecue Chicken Directions
- In a large saucepan, saute garlic in butter until tender.
- Add the next eight ingredients. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from the heat; set aside.
- On a lightly greased grill rack, grill chicken covered over medium heat for 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Baste with sauce.
- Grill 15 minutes longer or until a thermometer reaches 170°, basting and turning several times.
Taken from americanmadegrills.com