13 Washington BBQ Chicken Joints Serving Flavor Decades In The Making
Washington State has some seriously amazing BBQ chicken spots that have been around for years. These restaurants aren’t just cooking up tasty meals they’re sharing recipes and techniques that have been perfected over decades.
When you bite into their smoky, tender chicken, you’re tasting history and tradition mixed with passion and skill. I’ll take you on a flavorful journey through 13 incredible BBQ chicken joints that have stood the test of time.
1. Pecos Pit Bar-B-Que
How does a family recipe turn into a neighborhood legend? Pecos Pit has been serving Seattle’s SoDo district since 1992, bringing authentic Texas-style BBQ to the Pacific Northwest. Their chicken gets slow-smoked over real wood, creating that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat underneath.
I love that they use traditional smoking methods passed down through generations. The tangy sauce complements the smoky flavor without overpowering it. You’ll notice the difference immediately when you take your first bite.
Families keep coming back because the quality never changes. Their commitment to consistency has earned them loyal customers for over three decades. It’s the kind of place where grandparents bring their grandkids to share memories.
2. Jones Barbeque
Did you know some BBQ joints start in someone’s backyard? Jones Barbeque in Renton began exactly that way back in 1996 before becoming a community favorite. Owner Robert Jones perfected his chicken recipe through years of trial and error at family gatherings.
His special seasoning blend remains a closely guarded secret to this day. The chicken comes out with a beautiful mahogany color and incredible flavor depth. Each piece is hand-rubbed with spices before hitting the grill.
What makes this spot special is the personal touch in every order. Robert still oversees the cooking process himself most days. When you eat here, you’re experiencing authentic soul food BBQ made with genuine care and expertise.
3. Jack’s BBQ
It’s not every day you find a place that smokes chicken for 14 hours straight. Jack’s BBQ in Seattle’s Georgetown neighborhood has been doing exactly that since 2008. Their low-and-slow method creates unbelievably tender meat that falls right off the bone.
The owners studied BBQ traditions from across America before opening their doors. They combined techniques from Memphis, Kansas City, and Texas into their unique style. You can taste the dedication in every smoky, flavorful bite.
I appreciate how they source local chickens from Washington farms whenever possible. This commitment to quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference. Their sides are homemade daily, completing the authentic BBQ experience perfectly.
4. Blazin’ BBQ
When a firefighter opens a BBQ joint, you know the food will be fire! Blazin’ BBQ in Tacoma was started by former firefighter Mike Thompson in 2003. He brought the same passion from his previous career into creating mouthwatering BBQ chicken.
His signature spicy rub adds a kick that keeps customers coming back weekly. The chicken gets grilled over charcoal, giving it that authentic smoky char. Mike still uses the same recipe he developed in his backyard two decades ago.
The atmosphere here feels like a big backyard cookout every single day. Families gather around picnic tables sharing platters of perfectly cooked chicken. It’s become a Tacoma tradition for celebrations and casual weeknight dinners alike.
5. Hickory Hut BBQ
Are you ready to taste chicken that’s been smoked over pure hickory wood? Hickory Hut in Spokane has specialized in this traditional method since 1989. The wood imparts a distinctive sweet and smoky flavor you won’t find anywhere else.
Owner Sarah learned her craft from her grandfather who ran a BBQ stand in Tennessee. She brought those authentic Southern techniques to Eastern Washington three decades ago. Every chicken quarter is carefully monitored throughout the smoking process.
I’m always impressed by their attention to temperature and timing details. The result is consistently juicy chicken with perfectly crispy skin. Their homemade BBQ sauce recipe has remained unchanged for over thirty years, maintaining that classic taste people love.
6. Smokin’ Pete’s BBQ
Though Pete retired five years ago, his legacy lives on through his daughter’s dedication. Smokin’ Pete’s in Olympia opened in 1995 and quickly became the capital city’s favorite BBQ destination. Their chicken recipe combines Kansas City and Carolina styles into something uniquely Washington.
The meat gets a dry rub first, then slow-smokes for hours before finishing with sauce. This two-step process creates layers of flavor that make every bite interesting. You’ll notice hints of paprika, brown sugar, and secret spices in the crust.
Regulars often order a whole chicken to take home for family dinners. The generous portions and reasonable prices make it perfect for feeding crowds. It’s the kind of place where everyone knows your name after a few visits.
7. Big Tom’s Pit BBQ
If you’re looking for massive portions and bold flavors, Big Tom’s delivers both. This Bellingham institution has been serving hungry customers since 2001 with their famous half-chicken plates. Tom himself stands at 6’5″ and his personality matches his size warm, welcoming, and unforgettable.
His BBQ philosophy is simple: use quality ingredients and don’t rush the process. The chicken marinates overnight in a special brine before hitting the smoker. This preparation ensures every piece stays incredibly moist and flavorful.
I love their casual, no-frills atmosphere where good food takes center stage. The walls are covered with photos of satisfied customers from over the years. Big Tom’s proves that sometimes the best restaurants are the ones that focus on doing one thing exceptionally well.
8. Smokey’s BBQ Shack
When locals in Vancouver, Washington want real BBQ, they head to Smokey’s. This unassuming shack has been dishing out incredible chicken since 1998. Owner Marcus “Smokey” Williams earned his nickname from spending countless hours tending his smokers.
His chicken has a beautiful smoke ring and a flavor profile that balances sweet, spicy, and savory perfectly. Marcus sources his wood locally, using apple and cherry varieties that grow abundantly in Washington. The fruit woods add a subtle sweetness that complements the chicken beautifully.
What started as a weekend hobby became a full-time passion and successful business. The small operation means everything gets personal attention and care. You might wait a bit during busy times, but the incredible taste makes it absolutely worthwhile.
9. Rib Eye BBQ & Grill
Are you tired of dry, overcooked BBQ chicken? Rib Eye in Yakima has mastered the art of keeping their chicken perfectly moist since 2005. Their secret involves a special injection marinade that flavors the meat from the inside out.
The cooking process uses both indirect heat and smoke for optimal results. Each piece is turned and basted multiple times during cooking. This careful attention creates chicken that’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor in every single bite.
The restaurant started as a small takeout window and expanded due to popular demand. Now they seat over 100 people but maintain the same quality standards. Their commitment to excellence has earned them numerous local awards and a devoted following throughout Central Washington.
10. Carolina BBQ Company
How did Carolina-style BBQ end up thriving in Washington? Carolina BBQ Company brought authentic Eastern Carolina flavors to Everett in 2000. Their chicken features a tangy vinegar-based sauce that’s refreshingly different from typical tomato-based varieties.
Founders Jim and Beth relocated from North Carolina but couldn’t find their beloved regional style anywhere locally. So they decided to introduce Pacific Northwest residents to their heritage. The response was overwhelmingly positive from adventurous eaters seeking something new.
I appreciate their dedication to maintaining authentic Carolina traditions while using Washington ingredients. The chicken is smoked low and slow, then finished with their signature thin, peppery sauce. It’s a lighter, zestier take on BBQ that converts skeptics with the first taste.
11. Porter’s BBQ
It’s rare to find a BBQ joint that’s been family-owned for three generations. Porter’s in Wenatchee started in 1987 when grandpa Porter first fired up his smoker. Today, his grandchildren run the operation using the exact same recipes and techniques.
Their chicken has a distinctive flavor that comes from using orchard wood for smoking. Living in apple country provides access to pruned fruit tree wood that adds incredible sweetness. The combination of traditional spices and unique wood creates something truly special.
Customers often drive from neighboring towns just to get their BBQ chicken fix here. The consistency across decades has built trust and loyalty within the community. Porter’s represents everything great about family-run restaurants that prioritize quality over quick profits.
12. Backyard BBQ & Grill
When you want BBQ that tastes like your best friend’s dad made it, visit Backyard BBQ. This Puyallup favorite opened in 2004 with the goal of recreating perfect backyard cookout vibes. The chicken is grilled rather than smoked, giving it that classic charred exterior everyone loves.
Owner Dave Thompson wanted to capture the essence of summer gatherings year-round. His marinade includes beer, garlic, and herbs that create amazing flavor depth. The chicken stays on the grill just long enough to develop beautiful grill marks and caramelization.
The casual atmosphere includes picnic tables and a covered patio for all-weather dining. Kids love the relaxed environment where they can be themselves. It’s become the go-to spot for team celebrations, family reunions, and casual Tuesday dinners alike.
13. Smokin’ Roosters BBQ
If you appreciate restaurants with personality, Smokin’ Roosters will make you smile. This quirky Bremerton spot opened in 2006 and immediately stood out with its rooster-themed everything. But beyond the fun decor, their BBQ chicken is seriously impressive and deserving of all the attention it receives.
The owners experimented with dozens of rub recipes before settling on their current blend. It includes coffee grounds, which might sound strange but creates an incredible crust. The chicken emerges from the smoker with a dark, flavorful bark that’s absolutely addictive.
Regular customers have their own favorite pieces and sauce preferences that staff remember. This personal connection keeps people returning week after week for years. It’s a testament to how great food and genuine hospitality create lasting community gathering places.
