When the sun gets warmer and summer parties start, I think of BBQ. Last weekend, I had friends over for a cookout. The BBQ chicken breast was a hit.
It was so tender and tasty. I learned the secret is a great marinade and some grilling tricks. These keep the chicken moist and full of flavor.
This BBQ chicken breast got a 4.80 out of 5 rating from 335 votes. It’s a favorite at parties. It’s easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes.
It’s perfect for impressing guests or a tasty dinner. Let’s explore why BBQ chicken breast is so loved this season!
Why BBQ Chicken Breast is a Summer Favorite
When summer comes, BBQ chicken is hard to beat. It’s a top pick for my BBQ recipes. It’s easy to make and perfect for outdoor cooking.
Chicken is loved because it goes well with many foods. It’s great with salads or grilled veggies. Its taste gets even better when it’s marinated or seasoned before grilling.
There’s nothing like eating BBQ chicken on a hot day. It’s the star of my summer cookouts. The flavors and grilling fun make it a classic summer dish.
Essential Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Breast
To make BBQ chicken breast, you need the right ingredients. Start with 4 whole chicken breasts, about 4 to 5 lbs. Use 1 cup of Sweet Baby Ray’s® barbecue sauce for flavor.
For seasoning, mix kosher salt and black pepper. This makes the chicken taste amazing. You can also add olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic for extra flavor.
Brining the chicken makes it juicier. Mix 2 quarts of water, 3 tablespoons of salt, 3 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 2 garlic cloves. This recipe serves 6 people and needs just five main ingredients.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces | 4-5 lbs | Main protein source |
| Kosher salt | 2 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Flavor enhancer |
| Barbecue sauce | 3 cups | Marinade and basting |
| Brown sugar | 3 tbsp (for brine) & 2 tbsp (for spice rub) | Balances flavors |
| Garlic | 2 cloves (for brine) | Adds aroma and taste |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious BBQ chicken dish. Grilling and seasoning make each bite juicy and tasty. It’s perfect for any gathering.
Easy BBQ Chicken Recipe to Impress
Wow your loved ones with a simple BBQ chicken recipe. It’s great for a family dinner, serving six. It uses ingredients you likely have at home. The dish features juicy BBQ chicken thighs, tasty potatoes, and a fresh slaw.
First, heat your oven to 375°F. Get a baking pan ready with foil for easy cleaning. Mix 75ml tomato ketchup, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika in a bowl. This makes a yummy BBQ sauce.
Season six chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the pan with 1.2kg chopped potatoes. Bake for about 45 minutes. Add half the BBQ sauce for the last 20 minutes. Then, brush the rest on the chicken for a tasty glaze. Each serving has about 279 calories, making it a healthy choice.
Enjoy this dish with sides like frozen corn, red cabbage, carrots, and onions. Your guests will love this easy BBQ chicken recipe. It’s sure to become a summer favorite!
Choosing the Best BBQ Chicken Breast Marinade
Looking for the best chicken breast marinade is key. I like using balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and spices. These add flavor and make the chicken tender.
Adding smoked paprika and brown sugar makes it sweet. Marinating for 30 minutes or more is best. This makes the chicken juicy and full of flavor.
Trying different marinades can be fun. I balance acidity and sweetness for tender chicken. Letting it marinate overnight is the best way to get lots of flavor.
Choosing the right marinade makes your BBQ chicken special. Whether homemade or store-bought, marinating and cooking right is important. It makes the taste better and the meal more enjoyable.
Grilling Techniques for Juicy Grilled Chicken Breasts
To get juicy grilled chicken breasts, follow some key tips. Brining the chicken is a must. Soak it in a salt brine for 30-60 minutes. This makes it tender and flavorful.
Before grilling, heat the grill to medium-high, about 400°F. Make sure the chicken is oily and seasoned. This helps it brown well and prevents sticking.
When grilling, cook the chicken on direct heat for 4-7 minutes per side. Turn it once for perfect grill marks. Use a thermometer to check if it’s done; it should be 165°F.
For the best chicken, use a marinade. Mix olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Marinate for up to 2 hours. This makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
| Brining Time | Flavor Enhancement | Moisture Retention |
|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | Improved flavor | Minimal tenderness |
| 30-60 minutes | Optimal flavor and tenderness | Ideal juiciness |
| Over 90 minutes | Risk of excessive saltiness | May become too salty |
By following these tips, my grilled chicken is always amazing. It makes every meal special.
BBQ Chicken Breast Marinade Recipes
Choosing the right BBQ chicken marinade is easy. There are many to pick from. A great mix is 1/2 cup mayo, 1/2 cup ranch, and 6-8 cloves garlic. This makes your chicken breasts rich and tasty.
For a classic taste, try “Everyday Grilled Chicken Marinades”. It has ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and olive oil. It’s tangy and good with chicken thighs or breasts. Marinate for 10 hours or more for the best flavor.
| Marinade Name | Key Ingredients | Marinating Time |
|---|---|---|
| Honey Soy Chicken | Honey, soy sauce, garlic, vinegar, sherry | 10-24 hours |
| Asian BBQ Chicken | Garlic, ginger, soy sauce, ketchup, sriracha | 10-24 hours |
| Tandoori Chicken | Yogurt, lemon, garlic, spices | 10-24 hours |
| Greek Chicken | Lemon, garlic, oregano, olive oil | 10-24 hours |
| Pineapple Coconut Hawaiian Chicken Skewers | Canned pineapple, coconut milk, ketchup, lime | 10-24 hours |
| Italian Dressing | White wine vinegar, garlic, mustard | 10-24 hours |
| Fajita Marinade | Lime, orange juice, garlic, cumin | 10-24 hours |
These recipes will make your BBQ chicken a hit. Whether you like tangy or sweet, these recipes will make your dish amazing. Happy grilling!
BBQ Chicken Breast Seasoning Tips
Seasoning is key for BBQ chicken breast. I have some great tips to share. The best BBQ seasoning for chicken goes beyond salt and pepper.
Try blending spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder. This can make the flavor much better.
Let the seasoned chicken rest at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This lets the spices soak into the meat. It makes each bite taste amazing.
Make a homemade spice rub with brown sugar, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. It’s a great idea.
Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary is a good idea. Or try citrus zests like lemon and lime. More garlic powder is good for garlic fans. A little cumin or coriander adds a nice aroma.
This seasoning is not just for chicken. You can use it on pork, beef, and veggies too.
To keep unused rub fresh, store it in an air-tight container. Keep it in a cool, dark place. It can last up to three months. With these tips, your BBQ chicken breast will taste amazing.
How to Cook BBQ Chicken Breast in the Oven
Cooking chicken in the oven is a great way to enjoy BBQ chicken. It’s easy and doesn’t require outdoor grilling. Start by heating your oven to 425°F. This helps the BBQ sauce caramelize and keeps the chicken moist.
Use foil to line a baking dish for easy cleanup. Season 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts well. Use about ½ cup of BBQ sauce as a coating.
After 10 minutes, add more sauce for extra flavor. The chicken cooks in about 15 minutes. Make sure it reaches 160 to 165 degrees for juiciness.
If you use bone-in chicken, cook for 35 to 45 minutes. It should reach 170°F for safety. This method is easy and delicious. Enjoy your BBQ chicken as a weeknight meal or at summer gatherings!
The Perfect BBQ Chicken Breast on the Grill
To get the perfect grilled BBQ chicken, I start by prepping my grill. I set it to about 450°F. This makes a great place for my chicken to cook.
I use chicken tenderloins or boneless skinless chicken breasts. They are about 1¾ pounds. This size cooks evenly and takes in flavors well.
For seasoning, I use a marinade. It has ¼ cup of vegetable oil, 3 cloves of minced garlic, and 1¼ teaspoons of salt. I also add 1 tablespoon of packed light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. A little cayenne pepper (⅛ teaspoon) adds a nice spiciness.
Before grilling, I let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. This lets it soak up all the flavors. When grilling starts, I put the chicken over the hot parts of the grill. This makes the outside crispy and the inside juicy.
While grilling, I baste the chicken with BBQ sauce every few minutes. This makes a rich, caramelized crust on the surface. It’s very tasty.
To make sure the chicken is cooked right, I check the internal temperature. It needs to be 160 degrees Fahrenheit. After taking it off the grill, I let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This makes it even juicier.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 437 kcal |
| Protein | 50 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 145 mg |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
| Potassium | 1031 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Vitamin A | 1019 IU |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Calcium | 146 mg |
| Iron | 5 mg |
Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Breast
I love to get creative with sides for chicken. Vinegar coleslaw or potato salad are classics. They match the smoky chicken perfectly.
For a twist, I make grilled corn or a tomato cucumber salad. They add crunch and color. If I’m short on time, Instant Pot mac & cheese or an arugula salad are quick and easy.
I mix things up by serving BBQ chicken with different salads and dips. Stuffed mini peppers and chickpea and kale salad are great for vegetarians. They add flavor and nutrition.
For a heartier option, I serve baked beans or creamy mac and cheese. These dishes are loved by all. With over 35 side dish options, everyone finds something they like at my BBQ parties.
Don’t forget drinks! Soda, beer, or a light cocktail keep everyone happy. Make sure to have enough plates and utensils for everyone. Enjoy your BBQ chicken!
Storing Leftover Juicy BBQ Chicken Breast
After enjoying BBQ chicken breast, I often have leftovers. It’s important to store them right. I put my leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate it. This keeps it fresh for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, I wrap the chicken in plastic wrap or foil. Then, I put it in a freezer bag. This way, I can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. It’s great for meal prepping.
When reheating, I use the microwave, skillet, or oven. Just be gentle to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. This way, I can enjoy summer tastes all year round. These tips help me enjoy my meal without wasting anything.
