BBQ Chicken Breasts

Published: June 5, 2025

by eva

When it comes to summer grilling, BBQ Chicken Breasts are a must-try. Juicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare, they make for a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings, outdoor barbecues, or even a casual weeknight dinner. The combination of smoky BBQ sauce and perfectly cooked chicken creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners.
Bursting with Flavor: The brining process ensures your chicken absorbs moisture and flavor, resulting in juicy bites.
Versatile Dish: Serve these BBQ chicken breasts with sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, this dish fits right in.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best BBQ Chicken Breasts, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Basting brush
Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: This is where the magic happens! A good grill gives you that perfect charred flavor.
Mixing bowl: Ideal for brining the chicken. It keeps everything contained while you mix.
Basting brush: Helps apply BBQ sauce evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to perfection without being dry.

Ingredients

Chicken Ingredients

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 teaspoons paprika
1 cup BBQ sauce
4 cups water (cool)
1 1/2 tablespoons fine sea salt

How to Make BBQ Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Brine the Chicken Breasts

Brining the chicken helps it absorb moisture so that it remains juicy during grilling.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of cool water with 1 1/2 tablespoons of fine sea salt until dissolved.
Add your chicken breasts, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

While the chicken is brining, it’s time to get your grill ready.

Heat your grill to medium heat.
Brush the grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

After brining, it’s time to add flavor.

Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Coat both sides of each breast with olive oil, then season generously with paprika.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Now comes the fun part—grilling!

Place chicken on the hot grill and baste one side with BBQ sauce.
Let it cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes.
Flip the chicken over and move it to a cooler side of the grill.
Baste the other side with more BBQ sauce.
Cover the grill and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165℉ (about another 10 minutes).
Once done, remove from heat and brush a final coat of BBQ sauce. Cover and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your deliciously grilled BBQ Chicken Breasts!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Breasts

Serving BBQ Chicken Breasts can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this dish.

Classic BBQ Plate

Serve with coleslaw for a crunchy, refreshing contrast.
Pair with cornbread for a Southern twist that complements the smoky flavors.

Salad Topping

Slice the grilled chicken and add it to a fresh garden salad for a healthy boost.
Use BBQ chicken in a Caesar salad for a unique flavor twist.

Sandwich Delight

Shred the chicken and make BBQ chicken sandwiches with your favorite buns and toppings.
Add pickles and onions for an extra kick.

Wrap It Up

Roll the BBQ chicken in tortillas with lettuce, tomato, and avocado for a flavorful wrap.
Drizzle extra BBQ sauce inside for added moisture.

Pizza Topping

Use the grilled chicken as a topping for homemade pizza, paired with mozzarella and onions.
Add fresh cilantro after baking for an aromatic finish.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Breasts

Achieving perfectly cooked BBQ Chicken Breasts requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for best results.

Brine Your Chicken: Soaking in brine helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken for optimal searing.
Use Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165℉ to ensure safety and tenderness.
Baste While Cooking: Apply BBQ sauce during grilling to build layers of flavor without burning it.
Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling; this helps redistribute juices throughout the meat.
Experiment with Sauces: Try different BBQ sauces or marinades to find your favorite flavor combination.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Breasts

Adding side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to pair with BBQ Chicken Breasts.

Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, and corn tossed in olive oil make a vibrant side dish.
Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad balances the smoky flavors of the chicken nicely.
Baked Beans – Sweet baked beans provide a hearty complement to any barbecue spread.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn brushed with butter is always a crowd-pleaser during summer cookouts.
Macaroni and Cheese – This cheesy comfort food adds richness that pairs well with BBQ chicken.
Garlic Bread – Crisp garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When grilling BBQ Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

Skipping the brining step: Failing to brine your chicken can lead to dry meat. Always brine for at least 30 minutes to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.
Not preheating the grill: Placing chicken on a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Ensure your grill is hot before adding the chicken for perfect searing.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long leads to toughness. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165℉.
Neglecting to baste: Skipping the basting process can mean missing out on extra flavor. Baste with BBQ sauce during cooking for maximum taste.
Using low-quality BBQ sauce: A mediocre sauce can ruin your dish. Choose a high-quality or homemade BBQ sauce for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover BBQ Chicken Breasts in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Breasts

Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Frozen BBQ Chicken Breasts are best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Breasts

Oven: Preheat oven to 350℉ and warm chicken for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my BBQ Chicken Breasts are done?

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Breasts are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165℉ for safe consumption.

Can I use skin-on chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts. However, you may need to adjust cooking times as they might take longer due to the skin.

What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Breasts?

BBQ Chicken Breasts go great with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans. These sides complement the smoky flavors nicely.

How can I customize my BBQ Chicken Breasts?

Feel free to experiment with different spices or marinades! Adding honey or mustard can give your chicken a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Breasts are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. This recipe allows for customization based on your taste preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or summer gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy mouthwatering flavors that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card