Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Introduction

Baked BBQ chicken breast is a simple, delicious way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with minimal effort. This recipe features a smoky spice rub and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout.

Ingredients

• 4 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs. total)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (plus more to grease the pan)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with avocado oil to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and ground white pepper to create the spice rub.
3. Step 3: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub each breast evenly with avocado oil, then coat them liberally with the spice mixture on all sides.
4. Step 4: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
5. Step 5: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Brush each chicken breast generously with BBQ sauce, then return to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Step 6: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Tips & Variations

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
• Swap avocado oil for olive oil or melted butter if preferred.
• Try different BBQ sauces—honey mustard, spicy, or smoky—to customize the flavor profile.
• For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked chipotle powder to the spice rub.
• Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Storage

Store leftover baked BBQ chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to maintain moisture. This chicken can also be shredded and used in sandwiches or salads.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use fully thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen chicken, thaw completely in the refrigerator before baking.

How can I make the chicken more tender?

Brine the chicken breasts in a saltwater solution for 15-30 minutes before seasoning to help retain moisture and improve tenderness.

Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 123 reviews

This Baked BBQ Chicken Breast recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts coated with a smoky, flavorful spice rub and smothered in rich BBQ sauce. Perfectly baked to lock in moisture and create a deliciously glazed finish, this dish is an easy and satisfying meal option for any weeknight or casual gathering.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Chicken and Marinade

• 4 large chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (plus more to grease the pan)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish or pan with a little avocado oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and ground white pepper. Rub the chicken breasts on both sides with avocado oil, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over each breast, massaging it in to adhere well.
3. Bake the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the greased baking dish. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked through.
4. Apply BBQ Sauce: Remove the chicken from the oven and brush each breast generously with BBQ sauce. Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce has caramelized slightly.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy!

Notes

• To check doneness, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F.
• You can swap avocado oil for olive oil if preferred.
• For extra smoky flavor, use a BBQ sauce with hickory or mesquite notes.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: BBQ chicken breast, baked chicken, smoky BBQ, easy chicken recipe, oven-baked chicken, weeknight dinner