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If you crave flavorful, juicy BBQ Chicken Breasts that are easy enough for busy weeknights and impressive enough for weekend cookouts, you’ve landed in the right place. Learn how to grill or bake these chicken breasts for perfect results, every time. Whether you prefer outdoor grilling or a simple oven prep, this guide ensures tender, smoky chicken with minimal fuss.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy, flavorful, and always tender.
- Versatile: Grill or bake to suit your schedule.
- Uses everyday pantry ingredients.
- Family-friendly and perfect for meal prep.
Essential Equipment
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Table: Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Boneless skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed (for drizzling) |
| Kosher salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| BBQ sauce (your favorite) | ½ cup |
Step-by-Step Instructions
To Cook on the Grill
- Preheat grill to high heat (450°F) and clean grates.
- Drizzle chicken breasts with olive oil. Rub evenly over each piece.
- Season chicken generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Place on the grill; cover and cook for 5-6 minutes, then flip.
- Cook the other side for 4-5 minutes until they release easily.
- Baste with BBQ sauce, flip, and cook for 2 minutes per side, repeating on both sides.
- Grill until internal temp reaches 160°F (it will rise to 165°F as it rests).
- Cover with foil and let rest for 5 minutes before serving with more BBQ sauce.
To Cook in the Oven
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
- Drizzle chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Place chicken on prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Baste top side with BBQ sauce and return to oven.
- Cook for 5-8 additional minutes, until sauce bubbles/chars and internal temp is 160°F.
- Rest chicken for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness (target 165°F after resting).
- Try a smoky BBQ sauce or add a little liquid smoke for extra flavor.
- Let chicken rest so juices redistribute and meat stays moist.
- Slice or shred leftovers for salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
FAQs Using Keyword: BBQ Chicken Breasts
What’s the best way to keep BBQ Chicken Breasts juicy?
Grilling at high heat and not overcooking are key. Always rest chicken after cooking.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but increase cooking time and always check internal temp for safety.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. BBQ chicken breasts store well for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Meal Pairing Ideas
- Serve with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans.
- Add sliced BBQ chicken to salads or wraps for quick lunches.
Conclusion
Try out this BBQ Chicken Breasts recipe tonight and tell us how it turned out! For perfect results, invest in quality kitchen tools like a chef’s knife, cutting board, and oven. Want even more effortless dinners? Explore our recommended equipment below.
PrintPerfect BBQ Chicken Breasts: Grilled or Oven-Baked
Juicy BBQ Chicken Breasts prepared easily on the grill or in the oven. Tender, flavorful, and quick for busy nights.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling, Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
extra virgin olive oil
kosher salt, to taste
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
Instructions
1. To Cook on the Grill: Prepare grill at high heat (450°F), brush grates clean. Drizzle chicken with oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Grill 5-6 minutes per side, flipping when release easily. Baste with BBQ sauce, flip and cook 2 minutes per side. Grill to 160°F and let rest under foil to reach 165°F. Serve with more BBQ sauce if desired.
2. To Cook in the Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F. Drizzle chicken with oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake on a foil-lined sheet for 15 minutes. Brush with BBQ sauce, return to oven for 5-8 minutes until bubbling and slightly charred, and internal temp is 160°F. Rest to 165°F before serving.
Notes
Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
Try different BBQ sauces for flavor variety.
Leftovers make great salads or sandwiches.
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