bbq chicken breast recipe
The Best bbq chicken breast recipe
This recipe works for everything from casual family dinners to game-day gatherings, but honestly, it’s just as good for everyday eating. You can serve it with simple sides like roasted veggies or a fresh salad, or pile it high on a plate with some crusty bread. The kids always ask for seconds, and honestly, so do I—it’s that good. Plus, the chicken stays moist and flavorful even when reheated, so leftovers are a breeze. It’s a dish that’s easy to customize too, whether you want it extra smoky or a little sweeter, but the foundation stays the same: tender, delicious, and always a hit.
Juicy Smoky BBQ Chicken Breast
A tender, flavorful chicken breast recipe marinated in a tangy BBQ sauce and baked to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. -
2
In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. -
3
Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor. -
4
Preheat a grill pan or oven-safe skillet to medium-high heat. Place chicken breasts in the pan, skin-side down if using a skillet, and cook for 5 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. -
5
Transfer chicken to a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and the edges pull away slightly from the foil.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Juicy Smoky BBQ Chicken Breast Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Juicy Smoky BBQ Chicken Breast
How long should I marinate the chicken breasts before grilling?
Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 15 minutes to 2 hours for best flavor. For deeper tenderness, up to 4 hours in the refrigerator works well, but avoid leaving them overnight to prevent bacterial growth.
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating. Pat them dry thoroughly before grilling to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
What’s the best way to keep the chicken moist while grilling?
To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcrowding the grill and cook it over medium-high heat. Brush with a little oil or marinade every few minutes, and baste with extra marinade or melted butter as it cooks. Resting the chicken for 5–10 minutes after grilling also helps retain juices.
What if my chicken isn’t perfectly uniform in thickness?
If your chicken isn’t even, cut off any thicker parts before grilling. Use a meat mallet to gently flatten them to about ½ inch thick for even cooking. This ensures the edges cook faster, so you won’t have to flip the chicken too often.
