3 mouthwatering BBQ recipes you can cook this weekend

So fire up your charcoal or gas BBQ grill and get ready to enjoy some seriously good eats—these recipes are perfect for your next backyard BBQ.

1. Smoky BBQ baby back ribs

Nothing says “weekend BBQ” like a rack of slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone ribs. This recipe delivers deep, smoky flavor with a tangy homemade sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks baby back ribs

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the ribs
Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture generously all over the ribs.

Step 2: Wrap and bake (optional for tenderness)
Wrap ribs in foil and bake at 150°C (300°F) for 2.5 hours. This step ensures they stay juicy and tender before hitting the grill.

Step 3: Finish on the grill
Preheat your BBQ to medium-high heat. Unwrap the ribs and place them directly on the grill. Baste with BBQ sauce and grill for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until caramelized and slightly charred.

Step 4: Serve and enjoy
Let the ribs rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or grilled potatoes.

Why it works:

The combination of slow baking and high-heat grilling gives these ribs the perfect texture—tender inside with a sticky, smoky glaze on the outside.

2. Grilled lemon herb chicken thighs

Chicken thighs are juicy, flavorful, and forgiving on the grill. This lemon-herb marinade infuses the meat with zesty freshness and pairs well with salads, rice, or grilled veggies.

Ingredients:

• 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• Juice of 2 lemons

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour marinade over it. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for more flavor).

Step 2: Grill the chicken
Preheat your BBQ to medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and grill marks form.

Step 3: Rest and serve
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.

Why it works:

The lemon juice tenderizes the chicken while the herbs and garlic add layers of flavor. Thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than breasts, making them perfect for grilling.

3. Colorful grilled veggie skewers with balsamic glaze

Perfect as a side dish or a main for vegetarians, these veggie skewers are as tasty as they are beautiful. The balsamic glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish that complements the smoky char from the grill.

Ingredients:

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks

• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks

• 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds

• 1 red onion, cut into wedges

• 200g mushrooms (button or cremini)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 3 tbsp balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the skewers
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Toss the vegetables in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Thread onto skewers, alternating colors and types for visual appeal.

Step 2: Grill the skewers
Preheat grill to medium-high. Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until veggies are tender and slightly charred.

Step 3: Add the glaze
Brush the balsamic glaze over the skewers during the last 2 minutes of grilling. Serve hot.

Why it works:

Grilling brings out the natural sweetness in vegetables, and the balsamic glaze adds a gourmet touch. These skewers are easy to customize with your favorite produce.

Bonus tips for weekend BBQ success

• Preheat your grill: Give it 10–15 minutes to reach the right temperature before cooking.

• Oil the grates: Prevent sticking by brushing the grates lightly with oil before grilling.

• Use a meat thermometer: Ensure meats are cooked to safe internal temperatures without drying them out.

• Set up a BBQ station: Have your tools, sauces, and plates ready to keep things stress-free.

• Offer variety: Pair proteins with grilled veggies, fresh salads, and flavorful sides to keep everyone happy.

Final thoughts: ready, set, grill!

With these three BBQ recipes, your weekend just got a whole lot tastier. Whether you're craving smoky ribs, juicy chicken, or fresh veggie skewers, these dishes are simple to prepare and guaranteed to please.

Looking for the perfect grill to make these recipes shine?
Check out our top-rated gas, charcoal, and ceramic barbecues for all cooking styles and budgets.