BBQ Chicken Recipe: The Perfect Grilled Chicken for Your Summer Cookout

Why BBQ Chicken is a Great Idea for Your Summer Cookout

Nothing screams summer like a good old-fashioned BBQ, and what better way to celebrate than with some delicious BBQ chicken? This recipe is perfect for your next summer cookout, as it is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering chicken that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make BBQ Chicken for 4 people:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
4. Place chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 10 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Brush BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken, and grill for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side to caramelize the sauce.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Vegetarian/Vegan Option

For a vegetarian/vegan option, swap out the chicken with sliced portobello mushrooms. Follow the same instructions, but reduce the cooking time to 4-5 minutes per side.

Variations

There are endless ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

• Add some heat: If you like your BBQ chicken spicy, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.
• Switch up the sauce: Try different BBQ sauces to find your favorite. You can even make your own BBQ sauce from scratch!
• Make it a meal: Serve the BBQ chicken with some delicious sides, such as corn on the cob, baked beans, or coleslaw.

Conclusion

This BBQ chicken recipe is the perfect addition to your summer cookout. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to be a hit with your guests. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just enjoying a family dinner, this recipe is a must-try.

FAQ

How long should I marinate the chicken for?

We recommend marinating the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This will ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat and make it more tender.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. However, the cooking time may be slightly longer as thighs are thicker than breasts.

Can I cook the chicken on a grill pan instead of a BBQ?

Yes, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan instead of a BBQ. Make sure to preheat the pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil it before adding the chicken.

How can I tell if the chicken is cooked through?

The best way to tell if the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken and make sure it reads 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken and make sure there is no pink or raw meat inside.

How long should I rest the chicken before serving?

We recommend resting the chicken for at least 5 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat more tender.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making your own. However, homemade BBQ sauce will have a fresher flavor and you can adjust the ingredients to your liking.

Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless chicken?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken instead of boneless chicken. However, the cooking time will be longer as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook.

Can I freeze the leftover BBQ chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover BBQ chicken. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and label it with the date. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I use this recipe for BBQ ribs instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use this recipe for BBQ ribs instead of chicken. However, the cooking time will be longer as ribs are thicker and take longer to cook.

Can I use a different type of wood chips for smoking?

Yes, you can use a different type of wood chips for smoking. Hickory, mesquite, and oak are popular choices for BBQ chicken, but you can experiment with different flavors to find your favorite.