honey barbecue chicken recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best honey barbecue chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share this honey barbecue chicken recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The combination of sweet honey and tangy barbecue sauce is absolute perfection, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

I like to serve it at barbecues and family gatherings, but it’s also a great option for a quick weeknight dinner. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always eager to get involved when I’m cooking up a batch of this delicious chicken. The origin of this recipe is a bit unclear, but I think it’s safe to say that it’s a classic American twist on traditional barbecue.

The honey adds a rich, velvety texture that complements the smoky flavor of the chicken perfectly. And let’s not forget the health benefits – with lean protein from the chicken and natural sweetness from the honey, you can feel good about what you’re serving your loved ones. One of the key techniques in making this recipe is getting the right balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

You want to be able to taste both the honey and the barbecue sauce in each bite, but not so much that it becomes overpowering. It’s all about finding that perfect balance. When I’m cooking for a crowd, I like to make a big batch of this chicken and serve it with all sorts of sides – from classic coleslaw to crispy roasted vegetables.

And don’t even get me started on the leftovers – this chicken is just as delicious reheated as it is straight out of the oven.

Honey Barbecue Chicken

4.9 from 1826 votes

Juicy chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy honey barbecue sauce. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard cookout.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Honey Barbecue Sauce

1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2In a small bowl, whisk together all the honey barbecue sauce ingredients until smooth and set aside.
3Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
4Rub them with olive oil, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides.
5Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the baking dish.
6Pour half of the prepared honey barbecue sauce over the chicken, using a basting brush to coat each piece thoroughly.
7Bake the chicken uncovered for 15 minutes.
8After 15 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and brush the remaining sauce over the chicken.
9Return the dish to the oven and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes.
10The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling and caramelized.
11Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
12This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Baking dish (9×13 inch)
Basting brush
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in half the sauce for 30 minutes before baking. You can also grill the chicken over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, basting with sauce, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Watch Video Of How Honey Barbecue Chicken Works

This honey barbecue chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution.

And don’t worry about leftovers – this chicken reheats beautifully and makes perfect meal prep.

Simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through, then serve with your favorite sides.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Honey Barbecue Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

The best type of chicken to use for this recipe is boneless, skinless breasts or thighs.

Q: Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce?

While you can use store-bought barbecue sauce if you prefer, I highly recommend making your own using ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.

Q: How long does it take to cook the chicken?

The cooking time will depend on your preference for doneness – if you like your chicken cooked through but still juicy, aim for 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can marinate the chicken in advance, but be sure to cook it within a day or two for optimal flavor.

Q: What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?

I love serving this chicken with classic coleslaw, crispy roasted vegetables, and a side of warm buns or rolls.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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