Southern BBQ Chicken Recipe

Chicken breasts: Bone-in and skin-on, these pieces ensure a juicy and flavorful result.

Bbq sauce: Adds the essential smoky, tangy, and sweet flavor to the chicken.

Olive oil: Used to coat the chicken, helping it to stay moist and adding a subtle richness.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and other ingredients.

Black pepper: Provides a mild heat and depth of flavor to the dish.

To ensure your chicken breasts are evenly cooked and juicy, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This will help you avoid undercooking or overcooking, ensuring perfectly grilled BBQ chicken every time.

• bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Thighs are more flavorful and remain juicy during grilling, making them a great alternative.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory flavor profile that complements grilled chicken well.

• olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for grilling.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.

• freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a spicy kick, giving the chicken a different but enjoyable heat.

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess and bacterial growth.

• Use airtight containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil to store the chicken. This ensures that the bbq sauce and flavors remain intact while keeping the chicken moist.

• If you plan to consume the chicken within a few days, store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• For longer storage, freezing is the best option. Wrap each piece of chicken individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and makes it easier to thaw only the amount you need.

• Label the containers with the date of storage. This helps you keep track of how long the chicken has been stored and ensures you use it within a safe timeframe.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is heated through without drying out.

• For a quick reheat, you can also use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

• If you have leftover bbq sauce, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be used to baste the chicken during reheating or as a dipping sauce.

• Consider shredding the leftover chicken and using it in other dishes like salads, sandwiches, or soups. This adds versatility to your leftovers and keeps your meals exciting.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  3. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  4. For an extra burst of flavor, brush with additional bbq sauce before serving.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  3. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is heated through.
  4. Add a bit more bbq sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a fresh, saucy finish.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken breasts on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep the chicken moist.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, then check the temperature.
  4. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• Grill Method:

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  2. Wrap the chicken breasts in aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  3. Place on the grill and heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  4. Unwrap and brush with more bbq sauce before serving for that fresh-off-the-grill taste.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. Brush with extra bbq sauce during the last few minutes for a crispy, flavorful finish.

• Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts, providing that smoky, charred flavor characteristic of BBQ.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine olive oil, salt, and black pepper for the seasoning rub.

• Tongs: Essential for turning the chicken breasts on the grill to ensure even cooking.

• Basting brush: Used to apply the BBQ sauce to the chicken breasts while they cook.

• Meat thermometer: Helps to check if the chicken is fully cooked by measuring the internal temperature.

• Plate: Used to rest the chicken after it is removed from the grill.

• Knife: Useful for cutting into the chicken to check for doneness if you don't have a meat thermometer.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to rest the chicken on after grilling and for any necessary cutting.

Marinate in advance: Prepare the olive oil, salt, and black pepper mixture ahead of time and marinate the chicken breasts overnight for deeper flavor and quicker prep.

Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked without overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Preheat the grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it to ensure even cooking.

Baste efficiently: Have your bbq sauce ready and use a brush to baste the chicken quickly and evenly to save time.