Method

Marinade & Chicken

Prep chicken

Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.

Mix marinade

In a medium bowl combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil. Whisk until sugar dissolves and mixture is uniform.

Marinate chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to 2 hours (20 minutes for quick cook; up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).

BBQ Glaze

Prepare glaze

While the chicken marinates, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, minced chipotle, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Cook & Finish

Pan-sear chicken bites

Heat a large skillet (preferably cast-iron) over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tablespoon neutral oil or use the residual marinade oil. Add chicken bites in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes to develop a crust. Stir and continue cooking another 2-3 minutes until pieces are browned and mostly cooked through (internal temp ~160°F / 71°C).

Add glaze

Reduce heat to medium-low. Push chicken to the center of the pan and pour the prepared BBQ glaze over the pieces. Add the tablespoon of butter. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens, becomes glossy, and evenly coats the chicken. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and garnish

Remove pan from heat. Let the chicken rest in the pan for 2 minutes to let the glaze set. Sprinkle chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and toasted sesame seeds (if using) over the top. Toss lightly to combine.

Serve

Serve the smoky BBQ chicken bites hot as an appetizer with toothpicks, over rice, or alongside roasted vegetables or a salad.

Smoky Bbq Chicken Bites Recipe