Ingredients

1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. onion powder

1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, divided

2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1 cup Dr Pepper

2 tbsp. soy sauce

1 tbsp. dark brown sugar

1 tbsp. ketchup

1 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce

Vegetable oil, for grill

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Rub this spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Step 2: In a medium pot over medium heat, combine Dr Pepper, soy sauce, dark brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Stir occasionally and cook until the glaze thickens enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare a grill for medium-high heat and preheat for 5 minutes. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat and brush the grates or pan surface with vegetable oil.

Step 4: Place the chicken on the grill and brush half of the glaze over the pieces. Grill until the chicken easily releases from the grates, about 5 minutes. Turn the chicken over and brush with the remaining glaze. Continue grilling until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 155°F, about 4 to 5 minutes more.

Step 5: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This resting period ensures the chicken is juicy and fully cooked.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier glaze, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze mixture.

Use bone-in chicken thighs for even juicier meat, adjusting grilling time accordingly.

If you don’t have Dr Pepper, you can substitute with another cola soda or a mixture of root beer and a splash of vinegar.

Brush the chicken with extra glaze during grilling to build up a sticky, caramelized coating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute boneless skinless chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they dry out more easily. Adjust grilling time accordingly and monitor internal temperature closely.

Is Dr Pepper necessary for the glaze?

Dr Pepper adds a unique sweetness and flavor, but you can substitute with other cola sodas or a combination of cola and vinegar in a pinch. The soda helps create a sticky, caramelized coating.