The Best BBQ Chicken for Juicy, Flavor-Packed Dinners Every Time

By Martha

Everyday Kitchen Bliss!

June 13, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortlessly juicy chicken with no pre-marinating
Grill or oven method—so flexible year-round
A crowd-pleaser every single time
No fancy ingredients—just wholesome, backyard BBQ flavor

The Best BBQ Chicken Recipe for Juicy, Flavor-Packed Dinners Every Time

Author: Martha

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Description

From the moment I caught that first whiff of BBQ smoke drifting through my grandmother’s backyard, I knew summer had arrived. This Best BBQ Chicken recipe—as easy as it is comforting—captures my childhood memories of family cookouts. Each tender, juicy piece of chicken, coated in sweet-and-savory sauce, brings me right back to long afternoons filled with laughter, picnic tables under oak trees, and the sizzle of chicken on the grill. It’s a recipe that’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to center any family gathering. Over the years, it’s become the go-to dish at our seasonal celebrations—especially when I want food that feels like home.

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–9 oz each)
2 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite!)
Optional swap: 4 slices turkey ham, chopped (to garnish or layer)

Instructions

Prep & season: Preheat your grill to medium-high (400–450 °F), or set your oven to 450 °F. Pat the chicken dry, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Grill or bake:
- Grill: Cook chicken (lid closed) for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and juices run clear.
- Oven: Bake skinless breasts for 15 minutes, then brush top with BBQ sauce and bake 5–8 minutes more.
Sauce it up: In the last 2 minutes, baste both sides with BBQ sauce—just long enough to caramelize without burning.
Rest & serve: Let rest for 5 minutes under foil before slicing. Garnish with chopped turkey ham, if using.

Notes

Works beautifully with bone-in chicken—with adjusted cook times.
Leftovers keep up to 4 days; perfect for BBQ chicken sandwiches or salads.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–9 oz each)
2 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite!)
Optional swap: 4 slices turkey ham, chopped (to garnish or layer)

### How to Make Best BBQ Chicken

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Prep & season: Preheat your grill to medium-high (400–450 °F), or set your oven to 450 °F. Pat the chicken dry, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Grill or bake:
- Grill: Cook chicken (lid closed) for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and juices run clear.
- Oven: Bake skinless breasts for 15 minutes, then brush top with BBQ sauce and bake 5–8 minutes more.

Sauce it up: In the last 2 minutes, baste both sides with BBQ sauce—just long enough to caramelize without burning.
Rest & serve: Let rest for 5 minutes under foil before slicing. Garnish with chopped turkey ham, if using.

HELPFUL TIPS

Even thickness = even cooking: Pound breasts or cut thick ends to avoid dryness.
Thermometer magic: 160 °F internal, then resting to reach 165 °F ensures tenderness.
Final saucing: Apply sauce near the end to avoid burned sugars.

DETAILS

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Category: Main Course
Method: Grill or Oven
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten‑friendly (check BBQ sauce label)

NOTES

Works beautifully with bone-in chicken—with adjusted cook times.
Leftovers keep up to 4 days; perfect for BBQ chicken sandwiches or salads.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per serving)

Approx. 190 kcal, 24 g protein, 15 g carbs, 3 g fat

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is BBQ chicken a classic?
Yes, BBQ chicken is a classic dish beloved for its smoky, sweet, and savory flavor. It’s a staple at summer cookouts and family gatherings, especially when prepared with a flavorful dry rub or marinade and grilled to juicy perfection over indirect heat.

What size BBQ chicken should I cook?
For even cooking and juicy results, choose chicken breasts between 6 to 9 ounces each. Smaller pieces cook more evenly and quickly, helping prevent dryness. Always grill with the lid closed to maintain consistent heat and tenderize the meat.

What is a good cocktail for BBQ chicken?
A refreshing tomato-vegetable juice cocktail pairs wonderfully with BBQ chicken. It balances the sweet and smoky notes of the dish with its savory, tangy flavor. For something fruitier, try cranberry spritzers or sparkling citrus mocktails.

How many ounces should a BBQ chicken be?
Aim for chicken breasts weighing 6 to 9 ounces per piece. This size ensures even grilling and helps maintain moisture. Keep the grill lid closed during cooking to mimic an oven, allowing heat to circulate and cook the chicken thoroughly.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Store cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on low heat or toss into salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

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CONCLUSION

This Best BBQ Chicken recipe isn’t just dinner—it’s memory-making comfort food. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for bringing people together. Whether you’re firing up the grill or heading into a rainy-day oven bake, this dish delivers the warm, smoky taste of summer all year long. I hope it becomes a cherished staple in your home, too!