Nothing says Independence Day like fireworks and firing up the grill. Whether hosting a big family cookout or enjoying a quiet day with close friends, grilled BBQ chicken is a classic American dish even the kids will enjoy. Its smoky char, juicy meat, and sweet, tangy sauce pair perfectly with traditional sides like potato salad, baked beans, grilled corn, and watermelon. Plus, it’s easy to scale for any size gathering. So grab your tongs, crank up your patriotic playlist, and get grilling!
Recipes for Grilled BBQ Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 TBS boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing)
Directions:
1. Preheat the Grill
Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Prep the Chicken
Combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a bowl. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, then sprinkle with the seasoning mix.
3. Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Avoid moving them around too much to get a good sear.
4. Add the Sauce
During the last 2–3 minutes of grilling, brush both sides with BBQ sauce. Let the sauce caramelize slightly. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
5. Check Doneness
When the internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Pound to Even Thickness: Use a meat mallet to gently pound the thickest part of each breast so they cook evenly.
- Brush Sauce at the End: Always wait until the final few minutes to add BBQ sauce. If it’s added too early, the sugars can burn before the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add an Herbaceous Touch: Toss fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary onto the coals or into your sauce for extra aroma.
Fire Up the Grill with The Butcher Shop
Bring bold flavor to your backyard this 4th of July with grilled BBQ chicken. You’ll find the boldest and freshest flavors at The Butcher Shop. All of our meats are free range and locally sourced. We also carry fresh local produce, freshly baked bread, high-quality pantry essentials, and local wines and beers so you can put the finest, freshest ingredients on your holiday table. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.