Description
Juicy BBQ Chicken Fillets marinated in a homemade sauce, grilled or baked to perfection. Ideal for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners, these flavorful fillets can be enjoyed hot or cold in salads and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken fillets
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon honey (for a sweeter BBQ sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. If desired, add honey for sweetness. Whisk until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken fillets in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-4 hours.
- Preheat Grill or Oven: For grilling, preheat to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F). For baking, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Cooking Surface: If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates. If baking, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Remove Chicken from Marinade: Take chicken out of the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard leftover marinade.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Grilling: Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baking: Place chicken on the wire rack and bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes if desired.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice chicken into strips or serve whole. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve: Enjoy with sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or a fresh garden salad. Alternatively, serve on a bun for a BBQ chicken sandwich.
Notes
- Choose high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
- Marinating longer enhances flavor; even 30 minutes is beneficial.
- Customize the marinade with your favorite spices or herbs.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect cooking; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes