Grilled BBQ Chicken Breasts
Grilled BBQ chicken breasts are juicy, full of flavor, and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce. This is the kind of meal that works well for summer dinners, and it can be cooked on the grill, on the stovetop, or in the oven. The result is tender chicken with a rich BBQ flavor that pairs well with many sides.
This type of recipe is a great option when you want something simple but still satisfying. You can enjoy it with something cold and fresh on the side, or use the leftovers in different meals during the week.
For this version, a homemade BBQ sauce is a great choice. It brings a balance of sweetness and tang, but a good store-bought sauce can work just as well. The flexibility of this recipe makes it easy to adapt to what you have and how you prefer to cook.
WHY THIS BBQ CHICKEN WORKS WELL
Simple ingredients – Chicken, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce are all you need to create a flavorful dish.
Quick and easy – The cooking process is fast, which makes it a good option for busy days or simple summer meals.
Great for meal prep – Leftover chicken can be used in salads, wraps, bowls, or sandwiches, making it useful for several meals throughout the week.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED
Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a common choice, but other cuts can also be used if preferred.
Sea salt and pepper – Basic seasoning helps enhance the natural flavor of the chicken.
BBQ sauce – This is the main flavor element. A homemade version works well, but store-bought options are also fine.
EASY SUBSTITUTIONS AND VARIATIONS
There are several ways to adjust this recipe based on preference:
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They tend to stay moist and may need a slightly adjusted cooking time.
- Store-bought BBQ sauce can be used when short on time.
- If a grill is not available, the chicken can be cooked in a pan on the stovetop or baked in the oven until fully cooked.
- For extra flavor, spices like chipotle powder or cayenne can be added to the sauce for a bit of heat.
HOW TO MAKE GRILLED BBQ CHICKEN BREASTS
- Step 1: Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Step 2: Heat the grill to medium-high. Place the chicken on the grill and cook until grill marks form and the chicken releases easily. Flip and cook the other side.
- Step 3: Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken, then flip and add sauce to the other side.
- Step 4: Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked. The center should be no longer pink, and the internal temperature should reach 165ÂşF.
TIPS FOR BEST RESULTS
Use a thermometer – This helps ensure the chicken is fully cooked without drying it out.
Cook on the top rack – This helps keep the chicken moist while still giving it a grilled flavor.
Use clean utensils – Always use a clean brush or spoon when applying extra sauce to avoid cross-contamination.
SERVING IDEAS
Grilled BBQ chicken can be served with many different sides. It pairs well with vegetables, salads, potatoes, or grains. It can also be sliced and added to wraps or sandwiches for a simple meal.
HOW TO STORE LEFTOVERS
Refrigerator – Store cooled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer – The chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Reheating – Warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a little extra BBQ sauce helps keep it moist.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW CAN YOU KEEP GRILLED CHICKEN FROM DRYING OUT?
Cooking at the right temperature and avoiding overcooking can help keep the chicken moist. Using the top rack and making sure the chicken is even in thickness also helps it cook more evenly.
CAN THIS BE MADE WITHOUT A GRILL?
Yes, the chicken can be cooked on the stovetop in a pan or baked in the oven. Finishing with a short broil can help create a nicely caramelized BBQ coating.
Looking for more ideas? Try these other easy and tasty meals:
- Cilantro Lime Chicken
- Creamy Garlic Chicken
- Greek Chicken Bowls
- Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Rotisserie Chicken Salad
- Chipotle Chicken Recipe
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Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Sea salt and ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil or avocado oil
- â…“ cup BBQ sauce homemade or store-bought, plus extra for serving
Instructions
- Heat the grill to medium-high and make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken on the top rack of the grill when possible. This helps keep the meat juicy while still giving it a grilled flavor. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, or until grill marks appear and the chicken lifts easily from the grates.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5–6 minutes on the other side.
- Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken, then flip and add sauce to the other side. Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked.
- The chicken is ready when it feels firm and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and discard any sauce that touched raw chicken. Let it rest for a couple of minutes, then serve with fresh BBQ sauce on the side.
Notes
Store leftover chicken in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a little sauce to keep it moist. Alternative cooking methods:
- On a grill pan:
Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil, then cook the seasoned chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side without moving it too much. Once cooked, brush with BBQ sauce and serve. - In the oven:
Bake the seasoned chicken at 375°F for about 20 minutes. Add BBQ sauce and continue baking for another 5–10 minutes until fully cooked and coated.
Nutrition
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