Easy Kentucky Grilled Chicken Recipe
If you’ve ever craved the bold, crave-worthy taste of Kentucky fried chicken but wanted something lighter and healthier, Kentucky grilled chicken is your answer. This recipe delivers all the juicy tenderness and mouthwatering Southern flavor you love—thanks to a perfectly balanced blend of herbs and spices—while swapping the deep fryer for the smoky heat of the grill. The result? A satisfying, guilt-free chicken dish that’s every bit as delicious as its fried cousin.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll share everything you need to make Kentucky grilled chicken like a pro—from mixing the seasoning blend to mastering the grill temperature, plus helpful tips, flavor variations, and storage advice. Whether you’re cooking a casual weeknight dinner, planning a summer cookout, or prepping meals for the days ahead, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit at your table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Kentucky Grilled Chicken
- Big flavor, less fat – You get the classic Kentucky-style seasoning without the deep frying.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean even beginner cooks can nail it.
- Versatile – Serve it with mashed potatoes, a crisp salad, or tucked into sandwiches.
- Meal-prep friendly – Great for making ahead and storing for lunches or quick dinners.
Ingredients (kentucky grilled chicken Recipe)
Here’s the full list of ingredients you’ll need. The seasoning blend is the heart of this recipe—it’s inspired by Kentucky’s famous herb-and-spice mix, but slightly tweaked to shine on the grill.
For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- 4 bone-in chicken drumsticks (about 1½ lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Kentucky Seasoning Blend:
- 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional, for mild heat)
Optional Marinade (for extra tenderness):
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon of the seasoning blend above
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If you have time, marinate the chicken in buttermilk with salt and a teaspoon of the seasoning blend for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This step isn’t mandatory, but it makes the chicken incredibly juicy and helps the seasoning stick better.
If you’re skipping the marinade, simply pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture helps the chicken brown more evenly on the grill.
Step 2: Mix the Kentucky Seasoning Blend
In a small bowl, combine paprika, white pepper, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, basil, oregano, ginger, celery salt, kosher salt, and chili powder if using. Stir until well mixed.
This seasoning blend can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months—perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken pieces and rub it in. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents sticking on the grill.
Sprinkle the seasoning blend generously over all sides of the chicken. Don’t be shy—this is where the flavor comes from. Press it in with your hands to help it adhere.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
For authentic Kentucky grilled chicken, you want medium heat (about 350–375°F / 175–190°C).
- Gas grill: Preheat with the lid closed for about 10 minutes.
- Charcoal grill: Arrange coals for indirect heat, with most of the coals pushed to one side.
If you’re using a charcoal grill, adding a small piece of hickory or applewood gives a subtle smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the seasoning.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken skin-side down over indirect heat (not directly above the flame or coals). Close the lid and cook for about 25–30 minutes.
Flip the chicken and continue cooking for another 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for white meat and 175°F (80°C) for dark meat.
Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer—don’t guess. This ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
Step 6: Add a Final Char
For crispy skin and beautiful grill marks, move the chicken over direct heat for the last 3–5 minutes of cooking. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Transfer the chicken to a platter and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender and flavorful.
Tips for the Best Kentucky Grilled Chicken
1. Use bone-in chicken – Bone-in, skin-on pieces stay juicier and more flavorful than boneless cuts, making them perfect for the grill.
2. Don’t rush the cooking – Keep the heat at low to medium so the chicken cooks evenly and the Kentucky seasoning develops rich flavor without burning.
3. Marinate for extra flavor – A simple buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat and helps the spices cling for maximum taste.
4. Double the seasoning mix – Make extra and store it in an airtight jar. You’ll thank yourself the next time you fire up the grill.
5. Avoid constant flipping – Let each side cook undisturbed before turning. This keeps the skin crisp and prevents tearing.
Variations and Ingredient Substitutions
- Boneless option – Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for faster cooking. Reduce grill time to about 12–15 minutes total.
- Spicy twist – Add cayenne pepper or hot paprika to the seasoning mix.
- Herb garden version – Swap dried herbs for fresh ones, tripling the amount for a brighter flavor.
- Oven-friendly – If you can’t grill, bake at 400°F (205°C) for 40–45 minutes, then broil for a crispy finish.
- Smoky BBQ glaze – In the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush with a thin layer of barbecue sauce for a sweet-smoky kick.
What to Serve with Kentucky Grilled Chicken
This chicken is versatile enough to pair with just about anything. Here are some classic and creative ideas:
- Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy
- Southern-style green beans
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Coleslaw with a tangy dressing
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Macaroni and cheese
- A light cucumber and tomato salad
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration: Store leftover Kentucky grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap each piece tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a 325°F (160°C) oven until heated through. You can also reheat on the grill for 5–7 minutes over indirect heat to bring back some crispness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus optional marinating time)
- Cook Time: 50–55 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 people
Conclusion (kentucky grilled chicken Recipe)
Kentucky grilled chicken is proof that you can enjoy the bold, comforting flavors of Southern cooking without the heaviness and extra calories of frying. By combining a carefully balanced seasoning blend—rich with herbs, spices, and just the right amount of heat—with a patient grilling method, you get chicken that’s tender, smoky, and bursting with flavor in every bite.
This recipe celebrates the best of both worlds: the nostalgic taste of Kentucky-style chicken and the lighter, fresher appeal of grilling. It’s a dish that works year-round, whether you’re enjoying a sunny backyard barbecue, gathering the family for Sunday dinner, or meal-prepping for a busy week ahead. The seasoning blend is versatile, the cooking method is simple, and the end result feels like something you’d get from a hometown favorite—not a fast-food chain.
Another reason this recipe shines is its flexibility. You can stick to the classic version for a true Kentucky experience or customize it with your favorite herbs, add a spicy kick, or glaze it with barbecue sauce in the final minutes. However you make it, the technique ensures juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Whether you serve it with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes and biscuits, pair it with fresh seasonal vegetables, or tuck it into sandwiches for a quick lunch, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Make a little extra when you can—because Kentucky grilled chicken tastes just as delicious cold the next day, and leftovers are perfect for picnics, salads, and wraps.
So fire up the grill, take your time with the cooking, and savor the aroma as the seasoning works its magic. With this recipe, you’re not just making dinner—you’re creating a meal that brings people together, sparks conversation, and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Now, grab your grill tongs and get ready to make the best Kentucky grilled chicken you’ve ever tasted.
