If you’ve ever found yourself frantically searching “BBQ near me” while craving something tender, smoky, and bursting with flavor, you’re not alone. Across Canada, from Toronto’s urban grills to Vancouver’s multicultural food streets, there’s a vibrant BBQ scene sizzling with variety. And if you're on the hunt for the best BBQ chicken, delicious BBQ platters, or even authentic South Asian delights like chicken seekh kebab and beef seekh kebab, this list has got you covered. Let’s rank Canada’s tastiest BBQ chicken dishes, from subtly smoky to lip-tingling spicy, and don’t worry, we’ll tell you exactly where to get them too.
And spoiler alert: you can satisfy all your cravings at Karahi Boys, one of the most sought-after food spots for bold BBQ flavors and authentic spice blends.
1. Spicy Malai Chicken Tikka – A Creamy, Fiery Treat
A true Canadian BBQ gem with South Asian roots, Malai Chicken Tikka stands out with its luscious cream-based marinade and chili kick. Grilled over open flames, the result is a juicy, mildly smoky chicken with a spice that slowly builds with each bite.
Why It’s Ranked:
The balance of creaminess with subtle heat is perfect for those who love flavor without being overwhelmed by spice.
Where to Find It:
Head over to Karahi Boys, where their expert grill masters serve Malai Tikka with a charred crust and tender core. Just search BBQ near me in Ontario, and you’re likely to find one of their bustling locations.
2. Classic Canadian BBQ Chicken, Sweet, Smoky, and Saucy
This dish celebrates the heart of Canadian BBQ tradition. Slathered in a sticky-sweet sauce made with brown sugar, maple, and secret spices, the chicken is slow-cooked over hardwood to bring out that signature smoke ring and fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
Why It’s Ranked:
It’s a nostalgic favorite that delivers on both taste and comfort.
Where to Find It:
Many local joints across Alberta and Quebec serve this, but none do it quite like Karahi Boys, where they add a fusion twist with desi-style slaw and grilled naan to their BBQ platters.
3. Chicken Seekh Kebab – Flame-Kissed Perfection
This South Asian delicacy is winning hearts in the Canadian BBQ world. Minced chicken is blended with traditional spices, garlic, and herbs, then wrapped around skewers and grilled to juicy perfection.
Why It’s Ranked:
It’s a spicy, smoky alternative to typical BBQ chicken, packed with bold flavor and incredible texture.
Where to Find It:
Karahi Boys serves up one of the juiciest chicken seekh kebab dishes in the country. Whether you're dining in or searching for BBQ near me, this one’s worth the stop.
4. Nashville Hot BBQ Chicken – The Firestarter
Hailing from the U.S. but blazing across Canadian menus, Nashville hot BBQ chicken has gained popularity for its crispy, cayenne-forward spice and smoky undertones. It’s often deep-fried and finished on the grill to marry crunch with smoke.
Why It’s Ranked:
The texture contrast of crispy skin and tender meat makes this dish unforgettable. Plus, it hits a different level of spicy satisfaction.
Where to Find It:
Try the Canadian twist at Karahi Boys, where it’s offered as a part of a fusion-style BBQ platter featuring naan, pickled onions, and cooling raita.
5. Beef Seekh Kebab – Bold and Meaty Flavor
While not technically chicken, we’d be remiss not to include the mighty beef seekh kebab. This meatier cousin of the chicken version is infused with cumin, chili, and herbs, then grilled to juicy, smoky glory.
Why It’s Ranked:
Perfect for those who want a break from poultry but still want that spicy BBQ fix.
Where to Find It:
Karahi Boys brings the best of this traditional dish into the modern Canadian BBQ scene, offering it alongside spicy fries and chutneys.
6. Tandoori BBQ Chicken – Smoky Heat with an Indian Kick
The vibrant red glow of tandoori BBQ chicken comes from Kashmiri chili and yogurt-based marinades. Cooked in a clay oven or on open flames, this dish offers crispy skin and juicy inside with a smoky edge.
Why It’s Ranked:
This dish beautifully marries tangy, spicy, and smoky flavors in every bite.
Where to Find It:
Available at several desi joints, but Karahi Boys tops the list by serving it hot off the grill in their signature mixed BBQ platter.
7. Sweet Chili BBQ Chicken Wings – A Flavor Bomb
For those who love bite-sized treats, sweet chili BBQ chicken wings offer a saucy and spicy kick. Glazed with a blend of Asian sweet chili and grilled over charcoal, these wings are a fan-favorite at cookouts and sports nights alike.
Why It’s Ranked:
Small in size, but explosive in flavor, when paired with a chilled drink and naan.
Where to Find It:
These wings are featured in Karahi Boys’ combo boxes, making them a convenient and delicious snack or meal option.
8. Desi BBQ Platter – A Full Feast of Flavors
Why settle for one dish when you can have it all? The BBQ platter has become a staple offering at many South Asian restaurants in Canada, combining BBQ chicken, chicken seekh kebab, beef seekh kebab, wings, rice, sauces, and naan, all in one glorious tray.
Why It’s Ranked:
Best for sharing (or not!), this platter delivers a full spectrum of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.
Where to Find It:
No one does the BBQ platter better than Karahi Boys. Each component is grilled fresh to order and seasoned to perfection.
Final Thoughts: Where Flavour Meets Flame
Canada’s BBQ scene is a delicious reflection of its multicultural identity. From traditional maple-smoked chicken to the zesty spices of South Asia, BBQ chicken dishes across the country offer something for every kind of palate.
And if you’re tired of endlessly typing “BBQ near me” into your search bar, just head straight to Karahi Boys. Their commitment to bold flavors, traditional recipes, and premium grilling techniques ensures you’ll get a BBQ platter, chicken seekh kebab, or beef seekh kebab worth craving again and again.
So fire up your appetite, Canada, your next unforgettable BBQ experience is just a few grill marks away.
