Baked BBQ Chicken Breast | COOKTORIA

Mar 9, 2025 by Tania Sheff · This post may contain affiliate links

Spice up your chicken dinner with this delicious Baked BBQ Chicken Breast recipe. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this dish will become a family favorite. 

Baked BBQ Chicken Breast: A Flavorful and Easy Dish

Baked BBQ Chicken Breast is a staple recipe that is both simple to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or a dish to bring to a gathering, this recipe delivers in flavor and convenience. The combination of smoky seasonings and rich barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering result that is sure to satisfy. With just a few pantry ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a juicy, flavorful chicken breast on the table in no time.

This dish can be paired with a variety of sides, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. You can enjoy it with classic coleslaw, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even sliced over a fresh salad. Not only is it a delicious main course, but it also serves as a great protein base for sandwiches, wraps, and grain bowls. With so many ways to enjoy this baked BBQ chicken, it’s bound to become a go-to meal in your kitchen.

Video Tutorial for Baked BBQ Chicken Breast

Ingredients

• 4 large skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1.5 lbs. total) (or chicken thighs) 
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
• 1 ½ tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or oregano)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

How to make Baked BBQ Chicken Breast

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish with one tablespoon of avocado oil. Gently pound the chicken breast using the flat side of a meat mallet or a rolling pin (to ensure even cooking).

2. In a large bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs with the remaining tablespoon of oil.

3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat evenly with the spice mixture.

4. Arrange the seasoned chicken in the prepared casserole dish. Brush half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken, then place the dish in the oven.

5. After baking for 20 minutes, flip the chicken and brush it with the remaining barbecue sauce. Bake for another 20-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

6. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Helpful Tips for the Best Baked BBQ Chicken

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Overcooked chicken can become dry, while undercooked chicken is unsafe to eat. This instant-read thermometer is great!
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier texture.
• Choose the Right BBQ Sauce: Opt for a sauce that complements your taste preferences—whether smoky, sweet, tangy, or spicy. Use Homemade BBQ Sauce or store-bought. 
• Enhance with Marination: For even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Broil for Extra Caramelization: If you love a slightly charred finish, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to achieve a crispy, caramelized BBQ glaze.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy BBQ Chicken: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicier kick.
• Honey BBQ Chicken: Mix 2 tablespoons of honey into the barbecue sauce before brushing it onto the chicken for a sweeter, stickier glaze.
• Herb-Infused BBQ Chicken: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
• Smoky Chipotle BBQ: Swap out the smoked paprika for chipotle powder to add a deep, smoky flavor with a hint of spice.
• Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken: Wrap each chicken breast with a slice of bacon before baking for an extra layer of smoky goodness.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftover baked BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in the container.

Reheating

• Oven: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat to prevent drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions for Baked BBQ Chicken Breast

Baked BBQ Chicken Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments:

• Classic Comfort: Serve with mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or cornbread for a comforting meal. Try my Twice Baked Potato Casserole or Mashed Potato Casserole.
• Fresh and Light: Pair with a crisp garden salad or steamed vegetables for a healthier option. Try my Spring Mix Salad or Steamed Cabbage.
• Grain Bowls: Slice the chicken and serve over quinoa, brown rice, or couscous with roasted veggies. Try my Hummus Bowl with Vegetables.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Use the sliced chicken to make a BBQ chicken sandwich, wrap, or even tacos.
• Summer BBQ Vibes: Serve alongside coleslaw, grilled corn, and baked beans for a backyard cookout feel. Try my Mexican Pinto Beans.

Baked BBQ Chicken Breast is a simple yet flavorful dish that works for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re making a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or preparing for a cookout, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With endless ways to customize the flavors and a wide range of serving options, it’s one of those go-to meals you’ll find yourself coming back to time and time again. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal that’s full of smoky, savory goodness!

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