Craving succulent bites of smoky, tangy goodness that practically melt in your mouth? This Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe is your new go-to for effortless backyard grilling or a cozy weeknight dinner. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll be whipping up tender chicken breasts coated in a rich spice blend, marinated to perfection, and grilled until they’re kissed with that irresistible char. Whether you’re a total beginner at the grill or an experienced home cook looking to simplify your next cookout, this recipe is straightforward, reliable, and downright delicious.
Designed with ease in mind, this dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, 14 minutes to cook, plus a quick 5-minute rest. Each serving clocks in at around 350 calories, making it a guilt-free way to satisfy your BBQ cravings. From afternoon picnics to laid-back dinners, these chicken breasts shine when paired with crisp salads, buttery corn on the cob, or your favorite slaw. With a difficulty level of “Beginner” and clear, step-by-step instructions, you’ll feel confident firing up the grill and impressing friends and family in no time. Let’s dive into the flavor-packed journey of creating the ultimate Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN SMOKY GRILLED BBQ CHICKEN
Before we fire up the grill, let’s gather all the magic-makers that deliver bold flavor and juicy texture. This lineup of ingredients works in harmony to ensure every bite is smoky, sweet, and perfectly seasoned.
- Chicken breasts
Boneless, skinless cuts that are easy to pound to an even thickness. They absorb the marinade beautifully and cook quickly on the grill.
- BBQ sauce
A sweet and tangy glaze that caramelizes during the final grilling minutes, adding a rich layer of flavor and mouthwatering stickiness.
- Olive oil
Creates a silky base for the spice blend to adhere, helping keep the chicken moist and preventing it from drying out on the grill.
- Smoked paprika
Infuses the chicken with deep, earthy smokiness—even before you light the coals. It’s the cornerstone of that signature BBQ taste.
- Garlic powder
Delivers a warm, savory punch without the texture concerns of fresh garlic, melding seamlessly into the marinade.
- Onion powder
Adds a hint of sweetness and depth, rounding out the spice profile with subtle aromatic notes.
- Salt
Essential for seasoning and drawing out the natural juices of the chicken, intensifying the overall flavor.
- Black pepper
Provides a gentle heat and pungent aroma to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and spice rub.
- Cayenne pepper
Optional but highly recommended for a kick of heat that awakens your taste buds and layers extra complexity into the dish.
- Fresh parsley
Finely chopped garnish that offers a pop of color and a light, herby finish to each serving.
HOW TO MAKE SMOKY GRILLED BBQ CHICKEN
Ready to turn these ingredients into a show-stopping dish? Follow these steps carefully to ensure every element works together for maximum flavor and juiciness.
1. Prepare the chicken by using a meat tenderizer to pound each chicken breast to an even thickness. This step ensures that the meat cooks uniformly and stays tender.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This spice-infused mixture is your marinade, designed to penetrate the chicken with that signature smoky taste.
3. Submerge the chicken breasts in the bowl, turning them to coat thoroughly in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor development.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, targeting a temperature of 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). A properly heated grill forms a gorgeous sear and locks in juices.
5. Once the grill grates are hot, lightly brush them with oil using a folded paper towel or brush to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill grates.
6. Grill each side for about 6–7 minutes, flipping once, until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
7. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush a generous coating of BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken, allowing it to caramelize into a sticky, glossy finish.
8. Remove the chicken from the grill, transfer to a cutting board, and let it rest for a few minutes. This short resting period helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist when sliced.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a vibrant, herbal touch and a pop of color.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR SMOKY GRILLED BBQ CHICKEN
When it comes to plating this smoky BBQ delight, creativity is your best friend. Whether you’re serving a simple family meal or a festive backyard gathering, these ideas will elevate your dish and complement its bold flavors.
- Classic BBQ Platter with coleslaw and corn on the cob
Arrange sliced chicken alongside creamy slaw and golden, buttery corn for a timeless comfort meal. The refreshing crunch of coleslaw balances the rich, smoky chicken perfectly.
- BBQ Chicken Sandwich on a toasted brioche bun
Pile sliced chicken onto soft, buttery bread, add a dollop of extra BBQ sauce, and top with crisp lettuce and pickles. This handheld favorite is ideal for casual lunches and on-the-go bites.
- Protein-Packed salad topper
Slice the grilled chicken into strips and serve over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and cucumber. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a balanced, nutrient-rich lunch or dinner.
- Flavor-Packed BBQ chicken skewers
Thread chunks of grilled chicken with bell peppers, onions, and pineapple onto skewers. Serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping—perfect for parties and outdoor entertaining.
HOW TO STORE SMOKY GRILLED BBQ CHICKEN
Leftover grilled chicken can be just as delectable when stored and reheated properly. Follow these tips to preserve freshness, texture, and flavor for later enjoyment.
- Refrigeration in an airtight container
Place cooled chicken in a tightly sealed container and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Keeping air out prevents the meat from drying and limits bacterial growth.
- Freezing in a vacuum-sealed or freezer-safe bag
For longer-term storage, vacuum-seal slices or place them in a freezer bag with excess air squeezed out. Freeze for up to 2–3 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Storing BBQ sauce separately
If you want to maintain the best texture, keep any leftover BBQ sauce in its own sealed jar. This way, the chicken won’t become soggy, and you can brush on fresh sauce when warming up.
- Gentle reheating techniques
Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) covered with foil for 10–15 minutes, or warm slices in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water. Covering helps lock in moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out.
CONCLUSION
This Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. With only a handful of pantry treasures—smoked paprika, garlic and onion powders, a touch of cayenne, and your favorite BBQ sauce—you can create a mouthwatering dish that delights both beginner grillers and seasoned pitmasters. We’ve walked through every step, from pounding the chicken to an even thickness, marinating it with care, and mastering the grill for that irresistible charred finish. Thanks to its 30-minute prep, 14-minute cook time, and quick 5-minute rest, you’ll spend less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends. Each succulent bite packs around 350 calories, making this recipe a reliable, crowd-pleasing option for both lunch and dinner.
Feel free to print this article out or save it for your next cookout—it’s formatted to be your go-to BBQ guide any time inspiration strikes. Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ section to troubleshoot common questions or clarifications (so keep scrolling if you want more insider tips). If you give this recipe a try, drop a comment, question, or feedback—whether you nailed the perfect char or want help dialing up the heat, I’d love to hear how it goes in your kitchen. Happy grilling!
Smoky Grilled BBQ Chicken
Description
Savory chicken breasts marinated in a smoky spice blend, grilled to perfection, and slathered in sweet BBQ sauce—this dish bursts with flavor and is a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by preparing the chicken. Using a meat tenderizer, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps ensure even cooking.
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In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This will be your marinade.
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Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade, turning them to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours, to let the flavors meld.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C).
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Once the grill is ready, brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking, then place the marinated chicken on the grill.
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Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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During the last few minutes of grilling, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on each side of the chicken, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
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Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Note
- Marinating the chicken longer enhances the flavor, so aim for the full 2 hours if you have the time.
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper for your desired level of spiciness.
- Serve with sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
