Juicy, flavorful BBQ chicken breasts don’t have to be tricky this recipe makes them tender every single time, whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven. With simple seasoning and a smart brushing technique, you’ll get that sticky, caramelized BBQ finish without drying out the chicken.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
Optional swaps:
- Use honey BBQ for extra sweetness
- Add 1/4 tsp cayenne for a gentle kick
Steps
- Prep the chicken. Pat the chicken breasts dry and lightly pound to even thickness this helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Season well. Rub both sides with olive oil, then sprinkle garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Choose your method:
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium heat (about 375–400°F).
- Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking dish or sheet pan.
- Cook halfway first. Grill or bake the chicken without sauce for about 12–15 minutes total, flipping once. This prevents burning.
- Add BBQ sauce. Brush generously on both sides and continue cooking 5–7 more minutes, flipping once, until sticky and caramelized.
- Check doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F internally and feel firm but springy.
- Rest before serving. Let the chicken rest 5 minutes so the juices stay right where they belong.
Chef’s Tips
- Even thickness matters: It’s the secret to juicy chicken breasts.
- Sauce late, not early: BBQ sauce burns easily brushing at the end keeps it glossy and flavorful.
- Want extra char? Turn the grill heat up slightly for the last minute only.
Variations
- Honey garlic BBQ: Mix BBQ sauce with 1 tbsp honey and 1 minced garlic clove.
- Spicy BBQ: Stir hot sauce or chipotle powder into the sauce.
- Oven broiled finish: After baking, broil for 2 minutes for sticky edges.