Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Grilled BBQ chicken breast is the ultimate recipe for a juicy, tender, and flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is a go-to favorite. The chicken breasts are marinated in a delicious barbecue sauce, grilled to perfection, and served hot with all the classic accompaniments. This dish combines the smoky goodness of the grill with the tangy sweetness of BBQ sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Follow along with this simple step-by-step guide to make the best grilled BBQ chicken breast!

What Do You Need to Prepare Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast?

To prepare grilled BBQ chicken breast, you’ll need a few key ingredients to achieve that tender, juicy texture and smoky flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, as they grill easily and stay juicy.
BBQ Sauce: A good-quality BBQ sauce is essential for that smoky, tangy flavor.
Olive Oil: To keep the chicken moist and help it grill evenly.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Optional Ingredients:

Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice can add a refreshing citrus zing.
Honey: A drizzle of honey can bring out a sweet contrast to the savory BBQ sauce.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish.

How to Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast Step-by-Step?

Here’s how to prepare the most delicious grilled BBQ chicken breast, step-by-step:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Breasts

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, which helps the chicken cook more evenly on the grill. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want a bit of heat.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a bowl or ziplock bag. Add your favorite BBQ sauce (about 1/4 cup for 2 chicken breasts) and a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, or for up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Once the grill is ready, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them around to get those beautiful grill marks. Flip the chicken over and grill for another 5-7 minutes on the other side. You can brush more BBQ sauce onto the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.

Step 5: Check the Internal Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken. Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to your marinade to bring some heat to the dish.
Honey BBQ Chicken: Mix honey into the BBQ sauce for a sweet and sticky glaze.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken: Add fresh lemon zest and herbs like rosemary or thyme for a lighter, fresher flavor profile.
Grilled BBQ Chicken with Vegetables: Grill some bell peppers, onions, and zucchini alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

Cooking Note

If you’re using bone-in chicken breasts, increase the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
If you’re grilling on a gas grill, make sure to control the temperature by adjusting the burners for an even cook.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled BBQ chicken breast pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving it with:

Grilled Corn on the Cob
Coleslaw
Potato Salad
Grilled Asparagus
Steamed Rice or Quinoa
Garlic Bread

Serve with a cold, refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea for a perfect summer meal.

Helpful Tips

Marinating: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be. But even 30 minutes will give you a nice BBQ flavor.
Avoid Overcooking: Be sure not to overcook the chicken. It will dry out and become tough. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Use a Grill Basket: If you’re worried about the chicken sticking to the grill, try using a grill basket to make flipping easier.

Tips for the Best Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast

Even Thickness: Make sure the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
BBQ Sauce Choice: Pick a BBQ sauce that you love. Whether you prefer tangy, smoky, or sweet, the sauce plays a major role in flavor.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest after grilling to retain the juices. This step ensures a juicy bite every time.

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FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, bone-in chicken breasts will require a longer cooking time. Be sure to check the internal temperature for proper doneness.

What is the best BBQ sauce to use for grilling?

It depends on your taste! Classic tomato-based BBQ sauces are a favorite, but feel free to experiment with mustard-based or vinegar-based sauces for a tangy twist.

Can I make this recipe on a grill pan indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works just as well! Just make sure the pan is preheated before adding the chicken.

Conclusion

Grilled BBQ chicken breast is an easy, flavorful dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re grilling for a large group or just making a quick dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. With a few simple ingredients and a little preparation, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a tender, smoky, and delicious grilled BBQ chicken breast!