Oh, I just love barbecue recipes, and let me tell you, this easy barbecue chicken is one of my absolute favorites! It’s perfect for beginners who want to impress their friends and family without the stress. I remember the first time I tried my hand at grilling chicken—it was a bit nerve-wracking, but this recipe made it a breeze! With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken that’s ready to be devoured in no time. Trust me, once you master this technique, you’ll be the go-to grill master at every cookout!
Ingredients List
- 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (any preferred brand)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
Prepping the Grill
First things first, let’s get that grill ready! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 375°F to 400°F. This step is super important because it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks. I usually let my grill heat up for about 10-15 minutes. You can test if it’s hot enough by holding your hand about 5 inches above the grill grates—if you can only keep it there for 2-3 seconds, you’re good to go!
Preparing the Chicken
While the grill is heating up, let’s prep the chicken! In a bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This mixture will give your chicken a delicious flavor boost. Now, take each chicken breast and brush that mixture all over them. Make sure you get an even coat for maximum flavor—don’t be shy! I like to use a basting brush, but you can also use your hands (just make sure to wash them afterward!).
Grilling the Chicken
Now comes the fun part! Place the chicken breasts on the grill and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side. Resist the urge to move them around too much—let those grill marks form! After about 10 minutes, it’s time to brush some barbecue sauce on one side of the chicken. Flip the chicken over and do the same on the other side. Cook for another 5 minutes, making sure the internal temperature hits 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer for this—trust me, it’s worth it!
Resting the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it super juicy and tender. I know it’s hard to wait, but believe me, it’s worth it!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just an estimate. For each serving (1 chicken breast), you can expect about 250 calories, 8g of fat, 35g of protein, and 10g of carbohydrates. Always check your labels for the most accurate info!
Tips for Success
Here are some handy tips to make sure your barbecue chicken turns out perfectly every time! First, don’t move the chicken around on the grill while it’s cooking; that’s how you get those gorgeous grill marks. Also, make sure your grill is hot enough before adding the chicken—this helps with searing and keeps it juicy. If you’re unsure, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Finally, feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces! You can find your favorite flavor, or even mix a couple together for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your barbecue chicken experience, consider pairing it with classic sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. These light and crunchy options complement the smoky flavors beautifully! If you’re in the mood for something heartier, baked beans or potato salad are fantastic choices. And don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing drink—sweet tea or lemonade work wonders to balance the richness of the chicken. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
How can I make barbecue chicken spicier?
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, there are a few easy ways to spice things up! You can mix some cayenne pepper or chili powder into your olive oil mixture for an extra kick. Another option is to use a spicy barbecue sauce or add some hot sauce directly to the sauce before brushing it on the chicken. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Can I use thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time slightly, as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through. Aim for that same internal temperature of 165°F for safety!
How do I store leftover barbecue chicken?
To keep your leftover barbecue chicken fresh, let it cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator, where it should last for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it’ll be good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super easy prep with just a few ingredients
- Quick cooking time—ready in about 25 minutes!
- Deliciously smoky and tangy flavor from the barbecue sauce
- Perfect for beginners and backyard grilling enthusiasts
- Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite sauces and spices
For more delicious barbecue recipes, check out this link!
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Barbecue Recipes: 5 Tips for Juicy Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious barbecue chicken recipe for beginners.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mixture onto the chicken breasts.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side.
- After 10 minutes, brush barbecue sauce on one side of the chicken.
- Flip the chicken and brush sauce on the other side.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Don’t move the chicken too much while it cooks to get nice grill marks.
- Feel free to add more barbecue sauce if you like it saucier.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: barbecue recipes, easy barbecue chicken, grilled chicken
