Save to Pins There's something magical about the way a good BBQ sauce transforms ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. This Guava BBQ Sauce Chicken takes that transformation to new heights, blending the tropical sweetness of guava with classic barbecue flavors to create a dish that's both familiar and excitingly different. The guava paste melts into a glossy, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken skin, creating a mouthwatering combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes in every bite.
Save to Pins This recipe started as an experiment during a summer when I had an abundance of guava and a craving for something different from the usual barbecue fare. The natural sweetness of guava paste creates a BBQ sauce with depth and complexity that would be hard to achieve with just sugar alone. When brushed onto roasting chicken, it transforms into a glossy, caramelized coating that will have everyone asking for your secret ingredient.
Ingredients
- For the Guava BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup guava paste, chopped
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup water
- For the Chicken:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Prepare the oven
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- Make the guava BBQ sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine guava paste, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, black pepper, and water. Stir until guava paste melts and sauce is smooth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
- Season the chicken
- Pat chicken thighs dry. Rub with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on all sides.
- Begin roasting
- Arrange chicken skin-side up on prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes.
- Glaze and finish cooking
- Brush chicken generously with guava BBQ sauce. Return to oven and roast for another 20–25 minutes, brushing again halfway through, until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and glaze is caramelized.
- Rest and serve
- Rest chicken for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with any extra sauce on the side.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
The key to this recipe is allowing the chicken skin to render and become crispy during the initial roasting before adding the guava BBQ sauce. This prevents the sauce from burning while still allowing it to caramelize beautifully. Be sure to monitor the chicken closely during the final cooking phase, as the high sugar content in the guava sauce can darken quickly. If you notice it getting too dark too fast, simply tent with foil to prevent burning.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile recipe works wonderfully with different cuts of chicken. Try it with drumsticks, wings, or even a whole spatchcocked chicken (adjusting cooking times accordingly). For a quicker weeknight version, use boneless chicken breasts or thighs and reduce the cooking time. You can also substitute guava jelly for the paste if that's what you have available—just reduce the brown sugar slightly to account for the extra sweetness. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
Serviervorschläge
This tropical-inspired chicken pairs beautifully with sides that complement its sweet and tangy profile. Serve with coconut rice to lean into the tropical flavors, or contrast with a crisp jicama slaw dressed with lime juice. For a complete meal, add roasted plantains or grilled pineapple slices and a simple green salad. The extra guava BBQ sauce can be served on the side for dipping or drizzling, adding an extra burst of flavor to each bite.
Save to Pins This Guava BBQ Sauce Chicken has become a staple for everything from casual weeknight dinners to special occasions. Its vibrant flavors transport you to tropical shores while still delivering the comfort of classic barbecue. The combination of juicy chicken and glossy, flavorful sauce creates a dish that's as beautiful as it is delicious—a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether you're looking to expand your barbecue repertoire or simply craving something different, this fusion of tropical and traditional flavors is sure to become a new favorite.
Questions & Answers
- → What gives the guava BBQ sauce its unique flavor?
The sauce combines sweet guava paste with tangy apple cider vinegar, smoky paprika, and a hint of heat from cayenne pepper, creating a balanced tropical glaze.
- → How should the chicken be prepared before roasting?
Pat the chicken thighs dry, then rub them evenly with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to enhance the crust and flavor during roasting.
- → Can the guava BBQ sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to one week, allowing the flavors to deepen before glazing the chicken.
- → What is the recommended internal temperature for cooked chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- → Are there suggested side dishes to serve with the chicken?
Grilled pineapple, rice, or roasted vegetables complement the tropical and smoky flavors of the glazed chicken perfectly.
- → How can I add extra char to the chicken glaze?
Broiling the chicken for 2-3 minutes after the final glazing adds a desirable caramelized char to the surface.