The Ultimate BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe

When it comes to summer grilling, few dishes can rival the deliciousness of BBQ grilled chicken. This recipe is perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a savory, smoky treat. Here’s how to make succulent BBQ grilled chicken that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Start by prepping the chicken breasts. If they’re very thick, you might want to pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.

Marinate the Chicken:

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and dried thyme or rosemary if using.

Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.

Preheat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and have a nice layer of ash.

Grill the Chicken:

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid moving the chicken too much to get those beautiful grill marks and a nice sear.

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce on the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly.

Rest and Serve:

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Grilled Chicken

Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked without being dry.

Customize Your Sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.

Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to rest is crucial for maintaining juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your BBQ grilled chicken with classic sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. It’s also great for sandwiches, wraps, or atop a bed of rice or quinoa.

Enjoy the smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors of BBQ grilled chicken at your next gathering or meal!
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