Southern BBQ Chicken Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein for the dish.

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

Olive oil: Used to coat the chicken and help the seasoning stick.

Garlic powder: Provides a subtle garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.

Onion powder: Adds a mild onion flavor to the seasoning mix.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.

To ensure your chicken breasts remain juicy and flavorful, consider marinating them in the olive oil mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the seasonings to penetrate deeper into the meat, enhancing the overall taste. Additionally, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee they are fully cooked without drying out.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and have more flavor, making them a great alternative to chicken breasts.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade bbq sauce: You can control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking by making your own bbq sauce.

• olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in cooking.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Fresh onions offer a more robust and natural flavor than onion powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can add a slightly different texture and flavor profile compared to regular table salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used as an alternative to black pepper for a different taste.

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

• For short-term storage, place the cooled chicken in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

• If you plan to enjoy the Southern BBQ chicken later, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain moisture and flavor.

• For long-term storage, place the wrapped chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness. Freeze for up to 3 months.

• When ready to reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even reheating and maintains the texture.

• Reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat on the grill for a few minutes to recapture that freshly grilled taste.

• If you prefer microwave reheating, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

• To add extra flavor during reheating, brush with additional bbq sauce before serving. This will enhance the smoky, tangy taste of your Southern BBQ chicken.

• Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables to complete the meal.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken breasts in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is warmed through. For an extra burst of flavor, brush a little more bbq sauce on top before serving.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Place the chicken in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is heated evenly. Add a bit more bbq sauce if desired.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it’s not drying out. Add a little extra bbq sauce if needed.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Wrap the chicken in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Grill for about 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly heated. Brush with additional bbq sauce during the last few minutes.

• Sous Vide Method: If you have a sous vide machine, set it to 140°F (60°C). Place the chicken in a vacuum-sealed bag and immerse it in the water bath for about 45 minutes. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy and tender. Finish with a quick sear in a hot skillet if you prefer a crispy exterior.

• Grill: Used to cook the chicken breasts to perfection, giving them that classic BBQ flavor.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

• Brush: Handy for applying the olive oil mixture and BBQ sauce evenly on the chicken breasts.

• Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken breasts on the grill without piercing the meat.

• Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

• Plate: For resting the chicken after it’s been grilled, allowing the juices to redistribute.

• Knife: Can be used to check the doneness of the chicken if you don't have a meat thermometer.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface to rest the chicken after grilling.

Marinate in advance: Mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper the night before and marinate the chicken to save prep time.

Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F to avoid overcooking and save time checking doneness.

Preheat the grill: Make sure the grill is hot and ready to go before placing the chicken on it to reduce cooking time.

Batch cook: Grill extra chicken breasts and store them for quick meals throughout the week.

Use pre-made bbq sauce: Opt for a high-quality store-bought bbq sauce to save time on making your own.