Discover the best Grilled BBQ chicken recipe! Juicy grilled chicken basted with smoky, tangy BBQ sauce. Perfect for a flavorful and easy dinner or backyard cookout.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 320 per serving
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken
This Classic BBQ Chicken recipe delivers juicy, grilled chicken with a smoky BBQ sauce that caramelizes perfectly on the grill. It’s a go-to dish for any backyard cookout or weeknight dinner. The chicken is tender and flavorful, while the BBQ sauce adds a tangy, sweet kick. Pair it with your favorite sides like corn on the cob, coleslaw, or baked beans.
Ingredients for Classic BBQ Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts – The main protein for this dish.
- 1 cup BBQ sauce – For basting the chicken and adding that signature BBQ flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For grilling.
- 1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlic touch.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds a mild sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For a bit of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors of the spices.
How to Make Classic BBQ Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Baste with BBQ Sauce
During the last 10 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce. Flip the chicken and apply more sauce, allowing it to caramelize but not burn.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve the BBQ chicken hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side, if desired.
Tips for the Best Classic BBQ Chicken
- Monitor the Heat: Keep an eye on the grill to avoid flare-ups, which can burn the chicken.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Customize the BBQ Sauce: Experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce (sweet, spicy, smoky) to match your taste preferences.
Variations to Try
- BBQ Chicken Thighs: Swap the chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier option.
- Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for extra heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the BBQ chicken with grilled vegetables instead of traditional sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven for best results.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 26g
This Classic BBQ Chicken is a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dinner option that’s perfect for any occasion. With smoky, tangy BBQ sauce and tender, grilled chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy!