Grilled Kansas City Smothered BBQ Chicken
Grilled Kansas City Smothered BBQ Chicken is smoky, saucy, and cheesy.The chicken is grilled, then topped with BBQ sauce and onions.Finished with melted cheese for a rich, hearty bite.Perfect for cookouts and casual dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup Kansas City–style BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Rub chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until cooked through and nicely charred.
- While chicken grills, sauté sliced onions in a skillet over medium heat until soft and lightly caramelized.
- Brush grilled chicken generously with BBQ sauce.
- Top each piece with caramelized onions and shredded cheese.
- Close grill lid and cook 2–3 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Kansas City BBQ sauce is thick, sweet, and tangy—ideal for smothering.
- Thighs stay juicier than breasts if overcooked slightly.
- Grill with lid closed to melt cheese evenly.
- Caramelized onions add natural sweetness and depth.
- Best served fresh off the grill.