There’s nothing worse than slicing into a chicken breast only to find it dry, tough, and begging for sauce. But when done right, BBQ chicken breast is a thing of beauty—juicy, tender, and packed with smoky, sweet, or spicy flavors that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re firing up the grill, using your oven, or even trying a slow-cooker method, the secret lies in the right techniques and killer marinades, rubs, and glazes that lock in moisture and maximize taste.
This collection of 12 foolproof recipes guarantees succulent, flavor-packed BBQ chicken breasts every single time. From classic sticky-sweet BBQ glazes to bold jerk-seasoned charred perfection, honey-mustard caramelized edges, and even a spicy maple-chipotle version that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds, these recipes cover all the cravings. We’ve also included pro tips on brining, proper grilling temps, and resting times to ensure your chicken stays moist—no more hockey puck-textured disappointments!
Imagine pulling tender, smoky chicken off the grill, the caramelized sauce glistening under the sun, or serving up a perfectly charred breast alongside cool coleslaw and buttery cornbread. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a backyard cookout or just meal-prepping for the week, these recipes will make BBQ chicken breast your new go-to. Get ready to ditch the dryness and fall in love with juicy, saucy, finger-licking-good chicken every time.
Garlic Herb Butter BBQ Chicken
This Garlic Herb Butter BBQ Chicken is a simple yet mouthwatering dish that takes your barbecue game to the next level. The combination of garlic, fresh herbs, and rich butter creates a savory glaze that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Perfect for any gathering, it’s sure to impress your friends and family.
The recipe is straightforward and quick to make, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts. Get ready for a delicious meal that’s bursting with flavor!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the garlic herb butter mixture.
- Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ sauce over the chicken to caramelize it slightly.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken with Sesame Seeds
This Teriyaki BBQ Chicken recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with classic BBQ appeal. The result is tender chicken breasts that are juicy and packed with flavor, making this dish a standout for any meal. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
The addition of sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and a touch of elegance. Garnished with fresh green onions, this dish not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on the plate, making it a winner in both flavor and presentation.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, olive oil, honey, rice vinegar, and minced garlic. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they’re well-coated, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Grill: Get your grill heated to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess sauce to drip off. Season with salt and pepper. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Add Finishing Touches: In the last minute of grilling, sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken and close the grill lid to toast them slightly.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers
Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers bring a refreshing zing to your summer cookouts. The bright flavors of lime and cilantro pair perfectly with succulent chicken pieces, creating a dish that’s both vibrant and satisfying. This recipe is simple enough for any home cook and makes for a great hit at barbecues or family dinners.
The marinade is easy to whip up and requires just a few ingredients, yet it infuses the chicken with bold flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Perfectly grilled, these skewers offer a delightful combination of juicy chicken and tangy citrus, making them a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat them well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy your zesty chicken skewers!
Marinated BBQ Chicken with Pineapple
Marinated BBQ Chicken with Pineapple is a delightful dish that bursts with flavor. The combination of tangy BBQ sauce and sweet, juicy pineapple makes for a truly mouthwatering experience. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a weekend gathering.
The marination process ensures that the chicken stays juicy and tender, while the grilling adds a perfect smoky flavor. Pair this dish with rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh pineapple slices for grilling
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. Add pineapple slices to the grill for the last few minutes, cooking until they are caramelized.
- Serve the grilled chicken with the grilled pineapple on the side. Enjoy your tasty BBQ chicken!
Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken
This Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken is a zesty and smoky delight, perfect for any barbecue or weeknight dinner. The vibrant flavors of lime and chipotle come together to create a delicious marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also delivers a punch of flavor without requiring a long list of ingredients. With just a few steps, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, chipotle sauce, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges and your favorite sides!
Smoky Paprika BBQ Chicken
Smoky Paprika BBQ Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked paprika and tangy BBQ sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience. This recipe brings together simplicity and taste, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
The smoky aroma and the tender chicken make it a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients, yet it delivers big on flavor. You’ll love how juicy and succulent the chicken turns out with just the right amount of spice!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken breasts. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Add BBQ Sauce: In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with your favorite sides!
Honey Garlic Glazed BBQ Chicken
Honey Garlic Glazed BBQ Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. The honey adds a rich sweetness, while the garlic brings a depth of flavor that resonates beautifully with grilled chicken. This recipe is not only tasty but also simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
The glaze caramelizes perfectly on the grill, creating a sticky, delicious coating that keeps the chicken moist and juicy. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet yet is incredibly easy to prepare. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Brush with leftover marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your succulent Honey Garlic Glazed BBQ Chicken!
Balsamic Glazed BBQ Chicken
Balsamic Glazed BBQ Chicken is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue chicken. The sweetness of balsamic vinegar combined with the smoky flavors of BBQ creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both juicy and satisfying. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
The rich glaze caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, providing a perfect balance of tangy and sweet. Serve it alongside some grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, BBQ sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with leftover marinade in the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Garnish with fresh rosemary if desired.
Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken
This Maple Mustard Glazed Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table. The glaze adds a delicious shine and a savory depth that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
The combination of maple syrup and mustard creates a unique sauce that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. It’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Serve it with your favorite sides for a complete dinner!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the maple mustard mixture over them, ensuring they are well coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with your favorite sides.
Buffalo BBQ Chicken with Blue Cheese
This Buffalo BBQ Chicken recipe combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with a smoky barbecue flavor, making it a perfect choice for any gathering. The rich taste of blue cheese adds creaminess that balances the spices, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it great for both weeknight dinners and weekend parties.
The chicken stays juicy and tender, thanks to the marinade and cooking method. Serve it with a side of crispy celery sticks and a dip of your choice for a fantastic meal everyone will love. Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess sauce drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Top with crumbled blue cheese and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Lemon Dill BBQ Chicken
Lemon Dill BBQ Chicken is a refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant dill creates a bright, mouthwatering flavor that keeps the chicken juicy and tender. This recipe is quick and uncomplicated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend grill party.
The marinade is simple yet effective, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a go-to recipe for your summer cookouts!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, garlic, salt, pepper, and honey (if using).
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Cook the chicken on the grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of dill if desired.
Peach BBQ Chicken with Fresh Herbs
This Peach BBQ Chicken recipe brings together the sweetness of peaches and the savory goodness of grilled chicken. The combination of fresh herbs adds a burst of flavor, making it a delightful dish that’s easy to whip up for any occasion. With its juicy texture and the caramelized finish from the grill, this recipe is sure to impress.
Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is simple to prepare. The peach barbecue sauce is quick to make, and the chicken cooks beautifully on the grill or in the oven. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional BBQ chicken!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, pureed
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the pureed peaches, barbecue sauce, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a dish and pour the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh peach slices and a drizzle of the remaining marinade if desired.
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken breast doesn’t have to be a gamble—with the right recipes and techniques, you can enjoy tender, juicy results every time. These 12 recipes prove that a little marinade magic, proper cooking methods, and bold flavors can turn an ordinary chicken breast into a standout dish. Whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or smoky, there’s a recipe here to match your taste. So fire up that grill (or oven!), grab your favorite BBQ sauce, and get ready to serve up the juiciest chicken breasts your family and friends will ever taste. Dry chicken? Not on your watch!