Best BBQ Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • extra virgin olive oil
  • kosher salt , to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper , to taste
  • ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the grill for direct cooking at high heat (450°F). Brush the cooking grates clean.
  2. Drizzle the chicken breasts with extra virgin olive oil and rub over the breasts. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cover and cook for 5-6 minutes or until they easily release from the grates. Flip the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes longer. Baste the chicken breasts with BBQ sauce, flip and cook for 2 minutes on each side. Repeat on the other side. Cook until the breasts are firm to the touch and opaque all the way through, registering 160°F internal temp (the temp will rise to 165°F as the chicken rests).
  4. Transfer to a plate and cover with a piece of aluminum foil and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve with more BBQ sauce if desired.

FAQs:

  • What is the best cut of chicken for BBQ?
    • The best cuts of chicken for BBQ are typically bone-in, skin-on pieces like chicken thighs, drumsticks, or chicken quarters. These cuts are more flavorful and juicy when grilled or smoked, and the skin helps retain moisture and adds flavor.
  • How do I marinate BBQ chicken?
    • To marinate BBQ chicken, prepare a marinade using ingredients like barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and ensure they are evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
  • How long should I grill BBQ chicken?
    • Grill BBQ chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for bone-in cuts or 160°F (71°C) for boneless cuts, using a meat thermometer to check doneness. Cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, but bone-in chicken generally takes longer than boneless.
  • Should I baste BBQ chicken while grilling?
    • Basting BBQ chicken with additional barbecue sauce or marinade during grilling adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist. Brush the chicken with sauce during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, allowing each side to caramelize and develop a nice glaze without burning.
  • How can I prevent BBQ chicken from sticking to the grill?
    • To prevent BBQ chicken from sticking to the grill, ensure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled before cooking. Preheat the grill to medium heat and oil the grates using a high smoke point oil like vegetable or canola oil. Avoid moving the chicken too much while grilling to allow it to develop grill marks and release naturally when ready.

Leave a Comment