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The Best BBQ Chicken Recipe

This easy BBQ chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with a rich, caramelized BBQ glaze. It’s quick to make and works perfectly on the grill or in the oven for a reliable, flavorful dinner.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce your favorite

Method
 

Method 1: Grilling
  1. Prep the Chicken: Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil and rub to coat evenly. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to high (about 450°F). Clean the grates before cooking.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes with the lid closed. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes.
  4. Baste with BBQ Sauce: Brush BBQ sauce onto the chicken, flip, and cook for 1–2 minutes. Repeat on the other side until slightly caramelized.
  5. Check Doneness: Cook until internal temperature reaches 160°F (it will rise to 165°F while resting).
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove from grill, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Method 2: Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
  2. Place seasoned chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 15 minutes.
  4. Brush with BBQ sauce and bake another 5–8 minutes until fully cooked.
  5. Let rest before serving.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Slice or shred leftovers for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
  • For faster cooking, cut thick breasts into thinner cutlets.
  • Works with other cuts like thighs—just adjust cooking time.