Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast

This hearty grilled BBQ chicken breast has been my summer go-to for years, combining the perfect balance of smoky seasoning and tangy sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

I first developed this recipe during a neighborhood cookout when I needed something foolproof that would please everyone. Now it's requested at virtually every summer gathering I host, and for good reason.

Ingredients

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: fresh is best, but thawed frozen works too
• Garlic Powder: adds depth without burning like fresh garlic can on the grill
• Paprika: provides that signature smoky color and flavor
• Salt: enhances all the other flavors
• Pepper: adds a subtle heat that balances the sweet BBQ sauce
• BBQ Sauce: use your favorite brand or homemade for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Dry Rub:

Combine garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper in a small bowl until fully integrated. This simple blend is magic on chicken, creating a foundation of flavor that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.

Season the Chicken:

Apply the seasoning mixture generously to both sides of each chicken breast, pressing it in with your fingers. I like to do this step up to 8 hours ahead and refrigerate for deeper flavor penetration.

Preheat and Prepare Grill:

Heat your grill to a medium heat of 350 degrees F. Carefully oil the grates to prevent sticking using a paper towel dipped in cooking oil and held with tongs. This critical step ensures your perfectly seasoned chicken releases cleanly.

Initial Grilling:

Place seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and partial cooking before adding the sauce.

Apply BBQ Sauce:

Brush the partially cooked chicken with BBQ sauce, then flip and coat the other side. This double application ensures maximum flavor and creates that delicious caramelized exterior.

Final Cooking:

Allow the sauce to set for about 3 minutes, then flip and apply more sauce to the opposite side. Cook another 3 to 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. The sauce should be sticky and caramelized but not burnt.

Rest and Serve:

Transfer the finished chicken to a clean plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum juiciness.

Save This

The paprika in this recipe is my secret weapon. I actually use a combination of sweet and smoked paprika in my own kitchen to create a more complex flavor profile. My family jokes that they can tell when someone else has made this recipe because it never has quite the same depth.

Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce

The BBQ sauce you select will dramatically influence the final flavor. For a classic backyard BBQ taste, choose a tomato based sauce with a balance of sweet and tangy notes. For more adventurous eaters, try a spicy chipotle or Carolina mustard based sauce. I often keep several varieties on hand and let family members choose their own for a customizable dinner experience.

Temperature Control Is Everything

Grilling chicken breast perfectly requires vigilant temperature management. If your grill runs too hot, you risk charred exterior and raw interior. Too cool, and you get rubbery, dried out chicken. Invest in a good instant read thermometer and aim for that perfect 165°F. I maintain a cooler zone on my grill by turning off one burner, giving me a safe space to move chicken if flare ups occur.

Make It A Complete Meal

This BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with classic summer sides. Try serving with grilled corn on the cob, a crisp coleslaw, or baked beans. For a lighter option, I often serve it sliced atop a large garden salad with avocado and a light vinaigrette. Leftover chicken makes excellent sandwiches or wraps for lunch the next day, especially when topped with some extra BBQ sauce.

Common Queries

→ How do I keep chicken breast juicy on the grill?

Start by pounding the chicken to an even thickness. Grill over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking; resting for a few minutes after grilling helps retain juices.

→ What seasonings complement BBQ chicken breast?

Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper create a classic smoky base. Feel free to add chili powder or brown sugar for extra depth.

→ How do I know when chicken breast is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Juices should run clear when pierced with a fork.

→ Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely. Choose a variety that matches your taste preference, from sweet to spicy, to customize the final flavor.

→ Should I slice chicken before or after resting?

Rest the chicken breasts for several minutes before slicing to lock in moisture and keep the meat tender and juicy.