Kid-Friendly Bbq Chicken Plate Recipes For Large Family Gatherings
Gathering family and friends for a barbecue can be one of the most enjoyable experiences, especially when it comes to feeding a crowd. If you’re looking for recipes that are not only delicious but also appeal to kids, you’ve come to the right place. BBQ chicken is a classic favorite that can be personalized in many ways, making it perfect for large family gatherings.
In this article, we will explore various kid-friendly BBQ chicken plate recipes that will please even the pickiest eaters. From juicy chicken pieces to colorful sides, these recipes are designed to be simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing. Let’s dive into the delightful world of BBQ chicken plates!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken drumsticks or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bag of coleslaw mix
- 1 cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 8 ears of corn, husked
- 1 cup baked beans
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the bowl and coat it evenly with the seasoning mixture.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush BBQ sauce on the chicken, ensuring an even coating.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the coleslaw by mixing the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a separate bowl.
- Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Boil the corn in salted water for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
- Heat the baked beans in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and has a nice glaze from the BBQ sauce, remove it from the grill.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Assemble the plates with BBQ chicken, a serving of coleslaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Why BBQ Chicken Plates are Perfect for Kids
Kids love finger foods, and BBQ chicken fits the bill perfectly. The juicy, flavorful meat can be easily handled and eaten on the go, making it ideal for outdoor gatherings. Additionally, the sweet and tangy flavors of BBQ sauce are often a hit with children, ensuring they will enjoy their meal.
By pairing BBQ chicken with colorful sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans, you can create a balanced plate that appeals to both kids and adults. The variety of textures and flavors keeps the meal interesting, while still being simple enough for young palates.
Additional Kid-Friendly BBQ Chicken Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations for your BBQ chicken plates:
- BBQ Chicken Sliders: Shred the cooked chicken and serve on mini buns with extra BBQ sauce and coleslaw.
- BBQ Chicken Tacos: Fill taco shells with shredded BBQ chicken, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese for a fun twist.
- BBQ Chicken Pizza: Top a pizza crust with BBQ chicken, red onions, and mozzarella cheese for a delicious family pizza night.
- Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers: Skewer chunks of chicken and vegetables, grill, and serve with a side of dipping sauce.
Tips for Hosting a Large Family BBQ
When hosting a large gathering, preparation is key. Here are some tips to ensure your BBQ goes off without a hitch:
- Plan Ahead: Create a menu and shopping list in advance to ensure you have all necessary ingredients.
- Prep Early: Marinate the chicken the night before to enhance the flavors and reduce your workload on the day of the event.
- Set Up a Buffet: Allow guests to serve themselves to make the meal more casual and enjoyable.
- Provide Kid-Friendly Options: In addition to BBQ chicken, consider including hot dogs, mac and cheese, or fruit skewers for picky eaters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use boneless chicken for these recipes?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but cooking times may vary. Make sure to adjust the grill time accordingly.
2. How can I make the coleslaw healthier?
To make a lighter coleslaw, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reduce the amount of mayo used.
3. Can I prepare the BBQ chicken in the oven instead of a grill?
Absolutely! Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes.
4. What are some good side dishes to serve with BBQ chicken?
In addition to coleslaw and corn, consider serving potato salad, watermelon slices, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Conclusion
Kid-friendly BBQ chicken plates are a fantastic option for large family gatherings. They are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit different tastes. With a variety of sides and creative presentations, you can create a memorable meal that everyone will enjoy.
Whether you choose to stick with classic BBQ chicken or explore new variations, these recipes are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a delicious feast together!
