Description: A flavorful and easy-to-make grilled BBQ chicken recipe that’s perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken marinated in a smoky and spicy blend, then grilled to perfection and slathered in your favorite barbecue sauce. This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- About 1 cup store-bought barbecue sauce or homemade BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken (if using Chicken Breasts)
If using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, place them one at a time in a 1-gallon zip-lock bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking. Skip this step if using tenderloins. Pounding the chicken tenderizes it and reduces the grilling time.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, minced garlic, salt, light brown sugar, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a homogenous mixture. The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the spices, while the smoked paprika provides a delightful smoky flavor.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in the bowl with the marinade. Using tongs, toss the chicken until it is evenly coated with the marinade. Make sure every piece is thoroughly covered to maximize the flavor infusion.
Step 4: Refrigerate the Chicken
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a zip-lock bag. Place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 6 hours, or ideally, up to 24 hours. Longer marinating times result in more flavorful and tender chicken. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more the flavors penetrate the meat, resulting in a more delicious end product.
Step 5: Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to high heat (around 400-450°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. Oiling the grates is crucial for achieving those perfect grill marks and avoiding a messy cleanup.
Instructions:
Step 1: Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes per side. The exact grilling time will depend on the thickness of the chicken and the heat of your grill.
Step 2: Baste with BBQ Sauce
Flip the chicken, and then brush the cooked side with a generous amount of barbecue sauce. The barbecue sauce will caramelize and create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Step 3: Continue Grilling
Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy and avoid overcooking. Chicken tenderloins will cook faster than chicken breasts, so keep a close eye on them.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the grilled BBQ chicken to a serving platter. Serve immediately with the remaining barbecue sauce alongside. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and freshness.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This grilled BBQ chicken recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Flavorful: The combination of smoky paprika, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper in the marinade creates a complex and delicious flavor profile that perfectly complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce.
- Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Use your favorite barbecue sauce, adjust the spice level, or add other seasonings to the marinade.
- Healthy: Grilling is a healthy cooking method that reduces the amount of fat in the dish. Chicken is a lean source of protein, making this a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves BBQ chicken! This recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
COOKING Rating:
- Ease of Preparation: Easy
- Taste: Delicious
- Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Serving Suggestions:
Grilled BBQ chicken is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Classic Sides: Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, corn on the cob, and baked beans for a traditional BBQ meal.
- Healthy Options: Pair with a green salad, grilled vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions), or quinoa for a lighter and healthier meal.
- Comfort Food: Serve with mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, or cornbread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Sandwiches: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on toasted buns with coleslaw and extra barbecue sauce for delicious BBQ chicken sandwiches.
- Salads: Top a bed of mixed greens with sliced grilled chicken, corn, black beans, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing BBQ chicken salad.
Tips:
- For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures even cooking and prevents them from drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the grill, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the chicken from browning properly.
- If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, move it to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Experiment with different flavors of barbecue sauce to find your favorite.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to the marinade for extra tang.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop or bake it in the oven.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes (plus marinating time)
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving
- Protein: 30-35 grams per serving
- Sodium: 500-700 mg per serving
Conclusion:
This grilled BBQ chicken recipe is a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful marinade, tender chicken, and sticky barbecue sauce, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. However, make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating. Thawing the chicken properly ensures that the marinade penetrates the meat evenly and reduces the risk of uneven cooking.
Q2: What if I don’t have smoked paprika? Can I substitute it with regular paprika?
A: Yes, you can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika. However, keep in mind that smoked paprika adds a unique smoky flavor to the dish, so the taste will be slightly different. If you want to add a smoky flavor, you can try adding a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
A: Absolutely! To bake the chicken, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Q4: How can I adjust the spice level of this recipe?
A: You can easily adjust the spice level by controlling the amount of cayenne pepper you add to the marinade. For a milder flavor, use just a pinch of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. For a spicier flavor, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Q5: Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time. Marinate the chicken as directed and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also grill the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave and brush with fresh barbecue sauce.
