About the Recipe
This barbecue chicken recipe is a mouthwatering delight that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful homemade marinade. The chicken is first seasoned with a simple mix of salt and pepper, then bathed in a rich marinade made from a blend of barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey (optional), paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This marinade infuses the chicken with layers of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, creating a perfect balance that's sure to please your taste buds.
After marinating for at least 30 minutes (or longer for enhanced flavor), the chicken breasts are grilled to perfection over medium-high heat. As they cook, the marinade caramelizes, creating tantalizing grill marks and a beautiful charred exterior that adds a depth of smokiness to the dish. Basting the chicken with additional marinade or barbecue sauce during grilling ensures each bite is packed with savory goodness.
Once the chicken is cooked through and reaches a safe internal temperature, it's allowed to rest briefly, allowing the juices to redistribute and ensuring every slice is tender and moist. Garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness, this barbecue chicken is served hot, ready to be enjoyed alongside your favorite sides. Whether paired with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw and baked beans or served with grilled veggies and a garden salad, this recipe promises a satisfying and delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion, from casual cookouts to family dinners.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Optional: Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Preparation
Prepare the Chicken:
Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey (if using), paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour the barbecue marinade over the chicken, making sure it's evenly coated.
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken. For even better flavor, marinate for several hours or overnight.
Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
During grilling, baste the chicken with the leftover marinade or fresh barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve the barbecue chicken hot with your favorite sides like coleslaw, grilled corn, baked beans, or a garden salad.
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you." - John14:27
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