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Baked BBQ Chicken Breast 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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