Barbecue Recipes Non Vegetarian: Delicious Grilled Ideas

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Barbecue is a beloved culinary tradition that brings people together around smoky, flavorful dishes that celebrate the magic of cooking over an open flame. When it comes to non-vegetarian barbecue recipes, the options are endless, offering rich, succulent flavors that satisfy meat lovers everywhere.

Whether you’re grilling chicken, ribs, or juicy steaks, mastering barbecue techniques and marinades can elevate your outdoor cooking game to the next level. In this post, we’ll explore some irresistible barbecue recipes featuring a variety of meats, along with tips, equipment recommendations, and nutrition insights to help you create an unforgettable meal for family and friends.

Get ready to fire up the grill and dive into the smoky, savory world of non-vegetarian barbecue recipes that are sure to become staples at your next cookout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Barbecue non-vegetarian recipes are all about bold flavors, tender textures, and the satisfying char that only an open flame can provide. These recipes combine marinating, slow cooking, and smoking techniques to bring out the best in every cut of meat.

From the tangy, spicy rubs to the sweet, sticky sauces, each bite is an explosion of taste and aroma.

Not only are these recipes crowd-pleasers, but they are also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, pork, or lamb, you can tailor the spices and cooking methods to suit your palate.

Plus, barbecuing is a social experience, making these recipes perfect for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • Chicken thighs or drumsticks – 2 pounds, bone-in, skin-on
  • Pork ribs – 2 racks (about 4 pounds total)
  • Beef brisket – 3 pounds, trimmed
  • Olive oil – 1/4 cup
  • Apple cider vinegar – 1/4 cup
  • Brown sugar – 1/3 cup
  • Smoked paprika – 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic powder – 1 tablespoon
  • Onion powder – 1 tablespoon
  • Chili powder – 1 tablespoon
  • Black pepper – 2 teaspoons
  • Salt – 2 teaspoons
  • Honey – 2 tablespoons
  • BBQ sauce – 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
  • Fresh herbs (optional) – thyme, rosemary for garnish

Equipment

  • Charcoal or gas grill – for direct and indirect cooking
  • Meat thermometer – to ensure perfect doneness
  • Mixing bowls – for marinades and rubs
  • Brush or spray bottle – to apply sauces and oils
  • Tongs and spatula – for turning and handling meat
  • Aluminum foil – to wrap ribs for tender cooking
  • Grill basket or skewers – optional, for smaller cuts or kebabs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dry rub: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
  2. Marinate the chicken and brisket: Rub the chicken thighs and beef brisket generously with olive oil, then coat with half the dry rub mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  3. Prepare the pork ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Coat ribs with olive oil and the remaining dry rub. Wrap in foil and refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
  4. Preheat your grill: Set up for indirect heat with the charcoal or gas on one side only, aiming for a temperature around 250°F to 300°F (121°C to 149°C). Add wood chips if you want extra smoky flavor.
  5. Cook the ribs: Place the foil-wrapped ribs on the cool side of the grill. Cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, turning occasionally. Unwrap the ribs, brush with BBQ sauce, and cook for another 30 minutes uncovered to caramelize the sauce.
  6. Grill the chicken: Place chicken skin-side down over direct heat. Grill for 5-7 minutes until crispy, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking for 20-25 minutes, basting occasionally with honey mixed with apple cider vinegar for a tangy glaze.
  7. Cook the brisket: Place brisket on the indirect side of the grill. Close the lid and cook low and slow for 4-5 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C). Wrap in foil after 3 hours to retain moisture.
  8. Rest the meats: Remove all meats from grill and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.
  9. Serve: Slice the brisket thinly, cut ribs into individual portions, and serve with grilled chicken. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For extra smoky barbecue, soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes before placing them on hot coals. This will create flavorful smoke without burning the meat.”

  • Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your rub for a spicy kick.
  • BBQ Sauce Swap: Try a vinegar-based sauce for pork ribs or a mustard-based sauce for chicken to switch up flavors.
  • Alternate meats: Substitute lamb chops or turkey legs for a different barbecue experience.
  • Smoking method: Use a smoker instead of a grill for authentic low-and-slow barbecue.
  • Side dishes: Pair with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size Calories Protein Fat Carbohydrates Sugar Sodium
1 chicken thigh (approx. 4 oz) 250 23g 16g 3g 2g 450mg
1 rack ribs (approx. 6 oz) 400 28g 30g 5g 4g 600mg
3 oz sliced brisket 300 25g 22g 2g 1g 500mg

Serving Suggestions

Barbecue non-vegetarian dishes shine brightest when served with complementary sides and drinks. Consider pairing your platter with classic grilled corn on the cob, creamy coleslaw, or baked beans for that authentic cookout feel.

For bread lovers, try the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe to make homemade buns for pulled brisket sandwiches.

To add a refreshing balance, a crisp green salad or a cool cucumber and tomato salad works wonderfully. And don’t forget dessert—follow up your barbecue feast with something sweet like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe for a comforting finish.

More Non-Vegetarian Barbecue Recipes to Try

L&L Bbq Chicken Recipe

A Hawaiian-inspired barbecue chicken recipe that features a sweet and savory glaze, perfect for those who love a tropical twist. Check it out here.

Kosher Turkey Recipes

Explore delicious kosher turkey barbecue ideas that bring rich flavors and traditional seasoning styles to your grill. Find the recipe here.

Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Chicken Recipe

While not a traditional barbecue, this quick chicken recipe using Kikkoman stir fry sauce can be adapted for the grill to bring Asian-inspired flavors to your barbecue menu. View recipe details.

Conclusion

Barbecue non-vegetarian recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy rich, smoky flavors that bring out the best in chicken, pork, and beef. With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, you can create mouthwatering dishes that impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grill master, these recipes provide a great foundation to experiment with marinades, rubs, and sauces tailored to your taste.

Remember, the key to perfect barbecue lies in patience and attention to detail—low and slow is often the way to go for tender, flavorful results. Pair your grilled meats with delicious sides and finish off with a lovely dessert like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding for a meal that will be remembered long after the last bite.

📖 Recipe Card: Classic BBQ Grilled Chicken

Description: Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a tangy barbecue sauce, perfect for summer cookouts. This recipe delivers smoky, flavorful meat with a crispy char.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix barbecue sauce, olive oil, vinegar, honey, and spices in a bowl.
  2. Marinate chicken thighs in the sauce for at least 20 minutes.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Place chicken on grill, skin side down.
  5. Grill for 15 minutes, then flip and cook another 15 minutes.
  6. Baste with remaining sauce during grilling.
  7. Check for internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 22 g | Carbs: 8 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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