As the sun sets on another glorious summer day, I can almost taste the anticipation of grilling season. There’s something magical about the way Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken transforms a backyard gathering into a lively feast filled with laughter and connection. This recipe not only delivers a deliciously juicy chicken that’s marinated to perfection but also celebrates versatility—feel free to experiment with your favorite marinades! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous weekend cookouts, making it a true crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, leaving you more time to enjoy the company of friends and family. So, are you ready to fire up the grill and create some unforgettable moments? Let’s get started!

What makes this BBQ chicken incredible?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe is straightforward, allowing anyone to achieve delicious results without a fuss.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your gathering.

Customizable Marinades: Feel free to get creative! Try different marinades like teriyaki or citrus for a personalized twist that suits your taste.

Perfect for Summer Gatherings: It’s the ultimate dish to elevate your backyard parties, creating lasting memories with friends and family, especially alongside sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob.

Quick Prep Time: With minimal effort and time required, this recipe allows you to enjoy more moments with loved ones while still delivering a fantastic meal.

Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A juicy protein that keeps its moisture during grilling.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect grill char.
• Honey – Gives a beautiful sweetness that balances the tangy BBQ sauce.
• Cider Vinegar – Tenderizes the chicken while adding a zesty kick.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses a comforting, savory flavor throughout the chicken.
• Paprika – Enhances color and adds a hint of smokiness to the mix.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that elevate all flavors, making your easy grilled BBQ chicken truly shine.

For Finishing Touches
• BBQ Sauce – The grand finale! Brush on during grilling for that glorious caramelized finish.

Feel free to mix up the marinades to suit your tastes and unleash your creativity while making this Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor, allowing the chicken to absorb the tasty marinade.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfect sear on the chicken, locking in juices and flavor. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for direct heat. Once heated, clean the grill grates with a brush to prevent sticking and keep your Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken looking great.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill grates. Cover the grill and cook for 6–8 minutes, avoiding the urge to lift the lid, which helps develop those beautiful grill marks and succulent flavor.

Step 4: Add Sauce
After 6–8 minutes, carefully flip the chicken using tongs. Brush a generous amount of your favorite BBQ sauce over the top of the chicken pieces. Close the grill lid and continue cooking for an additional 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and infuse the chicken with delightful flavor.

Step 5: Check for Doneness
To ensure your Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken is cooked perfectly, check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. The temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for optimal safety and juicy results. If needed, grill for a few more minutes until it reaches the proper temperature.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the grill and place it on a clean cutting board. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to retain its juices. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side, along with your favorite summertime sides for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Variations

Invite your creativity into the kitchen and customize this recipe to tantalize your taste buds!

Teriyaki Twist: Use a teriyaki sauce instead of BBQ for a sweet, savory flavor. A quick brush of sesame seeds before serving adds an appealing crunch.
Citrus Marinade: Swap cider vinegar for fresh orange or lemon juice for a bright, zesty pop. It gives the chicken a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile!
Maple Sweetness: Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique twist that lends a richer sweetness, perfect for a fall-inspired BBQ.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the marinade for an earthy depth that balances beautifully with the smoky grilled flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for those who love a bit of heat! This twist will surely wake up your taste buds.
Garlic Lovers’ Delight: Increase the garlic powder in the marinade or add minced garlic for an extra bold flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika to enhance the grilled taste, giving your chicken a smoky flavor reminiscent of a classic BBQ pit.
Coleslaw Companion: Serve your BBQ chicken with a tangy coleslaw on top for added crunch and flavor, or check out this recipe for Honey BBQ Chicken to serve alongside for complementary textures!

Feel inspired? The beauty of this Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe lies in its flexibility!

What to Serve with Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken

As you put the finishing touches on your juicy grilled masterpiece, let’s explore delicious accompaniments that will elevate your summer feast to the next level!

Creamy Coleslaw: This cool and crunchy side balances the smoky flavors of the chicken, providing a satisfying contrast in texture.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet, charred kernels bring a delightful burst of summer flavor, perfect for enhancing the BBQ experience.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light and vibrant salad filled with crisp greens and colorful veggies adds a refreshing touch, brightening up your plate.
Baked Beans: Rich and sweet, these beans complement the smoky notes of the BBQ chicken, creating a beautifully harmonious balance of flavors.
Garlic Bread: Soft, buttery slices infused with garlic and herbs deliver a comforting element—a perfect way to soak up extra BBQ sauce.
Watermelon Salad: Juicy, sweet watermelon paired with salty feta and mint provides a wonderfully refreshing contrast, keeping the meal light and enjoyable.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Quench your thirst with a glass of zesty lemonade or iced tea, both refreshing options to brighten up your summer gathering.
Fruit Sorbet: End the meal on a sweet note with a scoop of fruit sorbet, providing a cool and fruity finish that perfectly complements the savory chicken.

Each of these sides not only enhances the experience but also creates a delightful symphony of flavors that everyone will love!

Storage Tips for Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken

Refrigerator: Store leftover Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain flavor and moisture, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner!

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. This keeps it fresh for those unexpected cravings.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in a skillet over low heat, brushing with a little BBQ sauce to keep it juicy.

Tip for Storage: Always make sure the chicken has cooled to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing to ensure food safety and quality.

Expert Tips for Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken

Marinade Time: Allowing chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour deepens flavor. For the best results, refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to the right medium-high heat (375°F or 190°C) to ensure proper searing and keep the chicken juicy.
Minimal Flipping: Resist the temptation to flip the chicken frequently. Let it cook undisturbed for beautiful grill marks and a better texture.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that your Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) to avoid undercooked or dry meat.
Resting Period: Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after grilling before serving. This helps retain moisture for a tender bite every time.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken breasts up to 24 hours in advance, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply whisk together the marinade ingredients (olive oil, honey, cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper), coat the chicken, and refrigerate in an airtight container. This not only saves time but ensures your chicken stays tender and flavorful. If you need to prepare even earlier, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling. When ready to cook, follow the grilling instructions, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal everyone will love, just as delicious as fresh!

Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
When selecting chicken for your Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and firm. This will help ensure that your chicken stays juicy throughout the grilling process. Avoid any with dark spots or if they are too thin, as they may dry out during cooking.

How should I store leftover grilled chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure you let the chicken cool to room temperature before sealing it to maintain its moisture. This way, you’ll have a delicious option ready for lunch or quick dinners!

Can I freeze leftover grilled BBQ chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if my chicken is drying out on the grill?
If you find your chicken drying out, it might be due to high grill temperatures or cooking for too long. I recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Also, reduce grill temperature and let it rest after cooking—this helps retain moisture!

Can I use other marinades?
Absolutely! The beauty of this Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with your favorite marinades like teriyaki, lemon-garlic, or even spicy chipotle to suit your taste preferences. Just remember to let the chicken marinate for at least an hour—increasing to 24 hours for a more profound flavor twist!