If you are looking for a dish that perfectly balances smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors with tender, juicy chicken, then you have to try The Tastiest BBQ Chicken (Easy Recipe with Classic Flavors!) Recipe. This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts and fresh vegetables into a mouthwatering feast that will have everyone asking for seconds. With a marinade that seeps deep into every bite and a grilling method that locks in all those unforgettable smoky notes, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward by using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack serious flavor. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s adding spice, sweetness, or vibrant color to your BBQ chicken feast.
- 7 chicken breasts: The main protein, trimmed and cut for quick grilling and perfect tenderness.
- 1 yellow pepper: Adds bright color and a subtle sweetness that complements smoky flavors beautifully.
- 1 red pepper: Brings a hint of natural sweetness and a splash of red for an appetizing look.
- 1 large red onion: Adds a mild pungency and depth that caramelizes perfectly on the grill.
- 1 tbsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors and keeping the chicken juicy.
- 1 tbsp Mrs. Dash Seasoning: A salt-free blend that adds a medley of herbs and spices for complexity.
- 1 tbsp Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning: Infuses the chicken with smoky-sweet notes for that classic BBQ vibe.
- ½ tsp black ground pepper: For just the right amount of peppery warmth.
- 1½ cups Sweet BBQ Sauce: The core of the marinade, giving the dish its signature sticky, sweet, and tangy punch.
- ½ cup BBQ Sauce (for brushing): Reserved for basting, this keeps the chicken moist and intensifies BBQ goodness during grilling.
How to Make The Tastiest BBQ Chicken (Easy Recipe with Classic Flavors!) Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by trimming any excess fat off your chicken breasts and cutting them into 1-inch pieces. This size helps the chicken cook evenly and soak up the marinade better. Rinse the pieces and drain them well so they’re ready to season.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
Wash your yellow and red peppers thoroughly, then cut them into large squares. Peel the red onion and chop it into chunks that are similar in size to the chicken pieces. This keeps every bite balanced and full of flavor.
Step 3: Season and Marinate
On a large plate, mix your salt, Mrs. Dash Seasoning, Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix all over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring every piece gets a flavorful coating. Then, pour in 1½ cups of the Sweet BBQ Sauce and toss everything together in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours—this patience rewards you with beautifully infused flavors.
Step 4: Skewer the Ingredients
Once marinated, thread the chicken and vegetables alternately onto metal or wooden skewers. If you use wooden skewers, soaking them beforehand prevents burning on the grill.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then lower it to low before placing the skewers on. This temperature balance cooks the chicken through without drying it out. Grill for 15 minutes on one side before flipping to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Brush with Sauce and Grill More
Brush the skewers generously with the reserved ½ cup of BBQ Sauce, then grill for an additional 15 minutes. Flip again, brush the other side, and continue grilling for another 10 to 15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and has that irresistible charred look and flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Remove your skewers from the grill and serve hot. You’ll find that every bite bursts with that classic, comforting BBQ essence you love, brought together perfectly in this The Tastiest BBQ Chicken (Easy Recipe with Classic Flavors!) Recipe.
How to Serve The Tastiest BBQ Chicken (Easy Recipe with Classic Flavors!) Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or cilantro add just the right fresh contrast to the smoky, saucy chicken. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can also add an unexpected crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This BBQ chicken pairs wonderfully with classic sides such as creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, consider grilled corn on the cob or garlic-parmesan roasted potatoes to round out the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the grilled chicken and veggies over a bed of fluffy rice or toasted buns for BBQ chicken sandwiches. Alternatively, thread the skewers over a platter with lemon wedges and extra BBQ sauce on the side for self-serving style gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your BBQ feast, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep the chicken moist and delicious as the flavors meld even further.
Freezing
You can freeze the leftover skewers or just the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Be sure to separate skewers with parchment if stacking to prevent sticking.
Reheating
To reheat, either warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through or gently microwave covered to maintain moisture. Consider brushing on a little extra BBQ sauce before reheating for that fresh-off-the-grill flavor revival.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add a richer flavor, but adjust cooking time as they can take a little longer to cook through.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 6 hours is ideal to maximize flavor absorption, but if you’re pressed for time, even 2-3 hours will give good results.
Do I have to use wooden or metal skewers?
No, but skewers help cook everything evenly and make flipping easier. If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes first to avoid burning.
Can this recipe be made in the oven instead of the grill?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, turning and basting with BBQ sauce halfway through.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
A sweet and smoky BBQ sauce works beautifully to complement the seasoning blend, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version for personalized flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying The Tastiest BBQ Chicken (Easy Recipe with Classic Flavors!) Recipe enough—this dish is a testament to how simple ingredients and a bit of patience can elevate your BBQ game. Whether you’re grilling for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe never fails to impress with its hearty flavor and satisfying textures. Go ahead and give it a whirl—you’ll likely find this becoming your new favorite go-to BBQ chicken recipe!
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The Tastiest BBQ Chicken (Easy Recipe with Classic Flavors!) Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 7 hours 40 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy this easy-to-make BBQ chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of smoky and sweet seasonings, paired with fresh bell peppers and red onions. Perfectly grilled to achieve a slightly charred, juicy finish, this dish brings classic BBQ flavors to your table and serves 10 people.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 7 chicken breasts, trimmed of fat and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 large red onion, peeled and cut into chunks
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp Mrs. Dash Seasoning
- 1 tbsp Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1½ cups sweet BBQ sauce
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (for brushing during grilling)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Trim any fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into 1-inch pieces. Rinse the chicken pieces and drain well.
- Mix Seasonings: On a large plate, combine salt, Mrs. Dash Seasoning, Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple Seasoning, and ground black pepper thoroughly.
- Prep the Vegetables: Wash and cut the yellow and red bell peppers into squares. Peel and chunk the red onion. Place all vegetables together with the chicken in a large bowl.
- Season and Marinate: Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken and vegetables. Add 1½ cups of sweet BBQ sauce and toss well to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 6 hours to marinate and enhance flavor.
- Skewer the Ingredients: Thread the marinated chicken pieces and vegetables alternately onto metal skewers or wooden skewers that have been pre-soaked to prevent burning.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 15 minutes before flipping them to ensure even cooking.
- Brush with Sauce and Continue Grilling: Brush the skewers with ½ cup BBQ sauce, continue grilling for another 15 minutes, then flip again. Brush the other side with more BBQ sauce and grill for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and has a slight charred appearance.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot. These BBQ chicken skewers pair perfectly with your choice of sides for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For best results, marinate chicken and vegetables for a full 6 hours or overnight if possible to maximize flavor absorption.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- You can customize the BBQ sauce based on personal preference for sweetness or spiciness.
- These skewers are great for outdoor grilling seasons and can be paired with coleslaw, grilled corn, or a fresh salad.
