Scrumptious Gluten-Free Barbecue Chicken Recipe

Becky avatarPublished by | Last updated 26th June, 2025
⏲️Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 day 40 minutes
🙏Rating:

June it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some easy, tasty recipes—especially gluten-free barbecue chicken.

This dish is a brilliant crowd-pleaser, combining smoky, tangy flavours with the comfort of a wholesome, naturally gluten-free meal.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just fancy a simple yet delicious dish to share with friends and family, gluten-free BBQ chicken is a fabulous way to celebrate the joys of outdoor cooking and make the most of those long, sunny days.

gluten-free barbecue chicken on bbq grill

What you’ll love about this recipe

Naturally Gluten-Free and Safe
Chicken itself is naturally gluten-free, so when you choose gluten-free barbecue sauce and prepare it carefully to avoid cross-contamination, you get a delicious meal that’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities or coeliac disease. It’s a comforting choice that doesn’t compromise on flavour or health.

Packed with Protein and Nutrients
Barbecue chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, zinc, and phosphorus, supporting muscle growth, metabolism, and overall well-being. Perfect for keeping your energy up during those long summer days.

Versatile and Easy to Make
You can whip up gluten-free pulled barbecue chicken in no time, and it’s wonderfully adaptable. Whether you fancy a smoky Memphis style or a tangy Carolina twist, you can tailor the flavours to your mood. Plus, it’s a brilliant dish to bring along to gatherings, making sure you have something hearty and gluten-free to enjoy.

Kid-Friendly and Soft
Pulled barbecue chicken is tender and easy to chew, making it a brilliant option for little ones, too. You can even blend it up for toddlers who prefer smoother textures, so everyone at the table can join in the feast without fuss.

Low in Fat and Carbs, Heart-Healthy
When prepared skinless and grilled, barbecue chicken is a low-fat, low-carb option that fits well into a heart-healthy diet. It’s a tasty way to enjoy a guilt-free treat that supports your health without sacrificing flavour.

So, whether you’re hosting a sunny garden party or just fancy a comforting, wholesome meal, gluten-free barbecue chicken ticks all the boxes for a scrumptious, safe, and satisfying dish. Cheers to that!

gluten-free barbecue chicken breast recipe

Ingredients

  • 10 Free-range chicken pieces

For the barbecue sauce 

  • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 3 cloves of garlic
  • 3 tbsp gluten-free tomato sauce
  • 1 dessert spoon of tomato puree
  • 1 dessert spoon gluten-free  soy sauce
  • 1 dessert spoon of honey
  • 1 dessert spoon of light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

easy gluten-free barbecue chicken recipe

Instructions

  • To make the barbecue sauce, whisk all the ingredients together in a jug.
  • Marinate the chicken pieces in the sauce for a couple of hours or overnight.
  • You can pre-cook the chicken in the oven for 20 minutes before putting it on the barbecue.
  • Finish off on the barbecue for 10-15  minutes, depending on how thick your chicken pieces are.
  • Then enjoy your tasty, smoky charred chicken.

gluten-free barbecue chicken in bowl

What To Serve With Barbecue Chicken

When serving gluten-free barbecue chicken, you want sides that complement the smoky, tangy flavours while keeping everything safely gluten-free and utterly delicious.

Classic Coleslaw
A creamy, crunchy coleslaw is a BBQ staple that’s naturally gluten-free and adds a lovely fresh contrast to the rich chicken.

Herbed Red Potato Salad
This is a quintessential summer side, easy to make gluten-free, and perfect for soaking up all those lovely barbecue juices.

Grilled Corn on the Cob
Charred corn with a sprinkle of parmesan and garlic is utterly irresistible and naturally gluten-free—a real crowd-pleaser at any BBQ.

Roasted or Air-Fried Vegetables
Think asparagus, Brussels sprouts with a maple lemon glaze, or air-fried oyster mushrooms for a smoky, crispy bite that pairs beautifully with BBQ chicken.

Cowboy Caviar or a Fresh Bean Salad
This colourful, flavour-packed salad is tangy, spicy, and full of wholesome ingredients, making it a brilliant gluten-free side to jazz up your plate.

gluten-free barbecue chicken cooking on grill

Are you ready to try my gluten-free barbeque chicken recipe? Then let’s get started:

gluten-free barbecue chicken on bbq grill

Gluten-Free Barbecue Chicken

Avatar for BeckyBecky Terrell
June it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some easy, tasty recipes—especially gluten-free barbecue chicken.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chill time 1 day
Total Time 1 day 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 10 Servings
Calories 292 kcal

Equipment

  • Small mixing bowl
  • Table Spoon
  • Dessert Spoon
  • Garlic press

Ingredients
  

  • 10 Pieces of free-range chicken
  • 1 tbsp White wine vinegar
  • 3 Cloves garlic Crushed
  • 3 tbsp Gluten-free tomato sauce
  • 1 dsp Gluten-free soy sauce dessert spoon
  • 1 dsp Honey
  • 1 dsp Light brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Rapeseed oil

Instructions
 

  • To make the barbecue sauce, whisk all the ingredients together in a jug.
  • Marinate the chicken pieces in the sauce for a couple of hours or overnight.
  • You can pre-cook the chicken in the oven for 20 minutes before putting it on the barbecue.
  • Finish off on the barbecue for 10-15  minutes, depending on how thick your chicken pieces are.
  • Then enjoy your tasty, smoky charred chicken.

Nutrition

Calories: 292kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 21gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 135mgPotassium: 279mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 138IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 14mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Barbecue Chicken
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gluten-free barbecue sauce on chicken

Gluten-Free Barbecue Chicken Tips

Choose a Truly Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce

Always double-check your BBQ sauce label to ensure it’s certified gluten-free—many sauces can sneak in gluten through additives or thickeners. If you fancy a bit of a smoky kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or your favourite gluten-free BBQ rub to the sauce mix.

Slow Cooker Magic for Tenderness

For soft, juicy chicken that shreds beautifully, use a slow cooker. Mix your gluten-free BBQ sauce with a splash of apple cider vinegar and honey, then cook the chicken on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It’s fuss-free and perfect for busy days.

Add a Bit of Heat if You Like

If you enjoy a bit of spice, stir in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your BBQ sauce mixture before cooking. It adds a lovely zing without overpowering the natural chicken flavour.

Keep It Dairy-Free if Needed

If you’re avoiding dairy too, make sure your BBQ sauce and any additional ingredients like butter or cheese are dairy-free. Olive oil or coconut oil works brilliantly for basting or roasting

Don’t Overcook!

When baking or grilling, keep an eye on the chicken so it stays juicy and tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) near the bone, ensuring it’s cooked through but not dried out.

Frequently Asked Questions

 Is barbecue chicken naturally gluten-free?

Yes, chicken itself is naturally gluten-free. The key is to ensure your barbecue sauce and any marinades or rubs you use are certified gluten-free, as some sauces may contain hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I use any cut of chicken for gluten-free BBQ chicken?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are popular for being lean, but boneless, skinless thighs add extra moistness and richer flavour. Both work brilliantly as long as you keep the sauce gluten-free.

How do I make sure my BBQ chicken stays gluten-free?

Check your BBQ sauce label carefully for gluten-free certification. Also, avoid cross-contamination by using clean utensils and surfaces. Homemade sauces are great for control, or pick trusted brands that clearly state gluten-free.

What’s the best cooking method for tender gluten-free BBQ chicken?

Slow cooking is a winner! Cooking chicken slowly in a gluten-free BBQ sauce mix makes it tender and easy to shred. You can also grill or bake it, just keep an eye on the temperature to avoid drying out the meat.

Can gluten-free BBQ chicken be dairy-free too?

Yes, it can! Many BBQ sauces are dairy-free, but always double-check. If you’re adding extras like butter or cheese, opt for dairy-free versions or simply skip them to keep it safe and tasty.


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Becky Terrell ✍️

Becky avatarHi, I am Becky. I am a passionate recipe maker and having been a coeliac (celiac) for 30+ years I focus on gluten-free recipes. My blog is my online cookbook of gluten-free tasty recipes. You can follow me on X: @beckygwg
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