There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly grilled BBQ chicken breast—juicy, smoky, and packed with bold, finger-licking flavor. But let’s be honest: while we all love a good charred, saucy piece of chicken, nobody wants to spend hours marinating, basting, or babysitting the grill. That’s where these recipes come in. Whether you’re firing up the barbecue for a weekend cookout, throwing together a quick weeknight dinner, or meal prepping for the week ahead, these 11 BBQ chicken breast recipes deliver maximum taste with minimal effort.
Think sticky-sweet honey sriracha glaze, tangy Carolina-style vinegar sauce, or smoky chipotle-lime rubbed chicken that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Maybe you’re craving the deep caramelized crust of a brown sugar bourbon BBQ or the bright, herby punch of a lemon-garlic marinade. From classic smoky grill marks to oven-baked shortcuts (because let’s face it—sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate), these recipes ensure tender, flavorful chicken every time, no fuss required.
We’ve even thrown in some pro tips for keeping chicken breasts from drying out, the best store-bought sauces to save time, and genius sides that turn your BBQ chicken into a full-blown feast. So grab your tongs, pick your favorite flavor, and get ready to make chicken breast the star of the show—without the hassle.
Smoky Paprika Chicken Breasts
Smoky Paprika Chicken Breasts are a fantastic choice for those looking to pack a punch of flavor without a lot of fuss. The sweet and smoky notes of paprika give the chicken a delicious depth, while the marinade keeps it juicy and tender. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that works perfectly on the grill or in the oven. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. If using an oven, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Breasts
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Breasts are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. The honey adds a delightful sweetness while the garlic provides a savory kick, making it an instant favorite for any barbecue lover.
This recipe is quick and easy, requiring minimal prep time and just a few ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken ready to impress your family or guests in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, and paprika.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Herb-Infused Lemon Grilled Chicken
This herb-infused lemon grilled chicken is a perfect blend of bright citrus and fresh herbs, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and delicious. With its simple preparation, it’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic herbs, allowing the flavors to really shine through. Grilling adds a wonderful smoky char, making each bite full of zest and vitality. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with lemon slices and additional herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple BBQ Chicken
This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple BBQ Chicken brings together the perfect balance of tangy pineapple and a kick of heat for a delightful dish. It’s simple to prepare and gives you that summer BBQ flavor any time of the year.
The marinade, made from pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, and a few spices, infuses the chicken with a delicious sweetness and a hint of spice, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, this recipe is low on fuss and big on taste!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix pineapple juice, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Add Pineapple: In the last few minutes of grilling, add the diced fresh pineapple to the grill and cook until caramelized.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve topped with grilled pineapple and fresh cilantro.
Balsamic Glazed BBQ Chicken Breasts
Balsamic Glazed BBQ Chicken Breasts are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that will make your taste buds dance. This easy-to-make recipe features juicy chicken breasts coated in a rich balsamic glaze, giving them a unique twist on traditional BBQ.
The best part? It requires minimal effort, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. Just a handful of ingredients come together to create a dish that’s big on flavor but low on fuss!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Glaze: In the last few minutes of cooking, brush some of the leftover marinade onto the chicken for extra flavor.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Chipotle Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Chipotle Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a vibrant dish that delivers a punch of flavor without any fuss. The smoky heat of chipotle combined with the zesty lime creates a tasty marinade that brings out the best in chicken breasts. Topped with a refreshing avocado salsa, this meal is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also comes together quickly. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a delightful meal that’s satisfying and nutritious. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a complete dinner that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce (or more for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (for the salsa)
- Salt to taste (for the salsa)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chipotle sauce, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Gently toss and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Grill or cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Top with the avocado salsa and enjoy!
Easy BBQ Chicken with Mustard Marinade
This Easy BBQ Chicken with Mustard Marinade is a flavorful dish that combines tangy mustard and sweet barbecue sauce to create a delightful glaze. It’s a simple recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, giving you that smoky flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
The mustard marinade not only adds a zesty kick but also helps keep the chicken moist and tender. Just a few ingredients, and you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix together the mustard, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat on the stove.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with extra barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra glaze.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken with Sesame Seeds
This Teriyaki BBQ Chicken recipe combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful dish that’s easy to whip up. The marinade brings a tangy kick, while the sesame seeds add a nice crunch. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this recipe requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
The chicken is juicy and tender, soaking up all the delicious teriyaki sauce. Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s not only tasty but also visually appealing. You’ll love how simple it is to create a dish that everyone will rave about!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. If using a grill pan, heat it on the stovetop.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Place on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Add the Finishing Touch: During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the chicken to toast them slightly.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your flavorful Teriyaki BBQ Chicken!
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish that bursts with flavor. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a savory crust that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend BBQ, this recipe is quick to prepare and requires minimal fuss.
This chicken is juicy and tender, making it a hit with both adults and kids. Pair it with some pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Zesty BBQ Chicken with Mango Chutney
This Zesty BBQ Chicken with Mango Chutney is perfect for those sunny days when you want something full of flavor but easy to prepare. The chicken breasts are grilled to perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy mango chutney, making each bite a delightful experience.
The combination of smoky BBQ flavors and the tropical sweetness of mango creates a refreshing dish that’s family-friendly and great for gatherings. Plus, it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup mango chutney
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- During the last minute of grilling, brush the BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken for a nice glaze.
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Top the chicken with mango chutney and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Corn Salsa
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Corn Salsa is a fresh and zesty dish perfect for any occasion. The juicy chicken breast marinated in a tangy lime and cilantro blend pairs wonderfully with the sweet and colorful corn salsa. This meal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The bright flavors of lime and cilantro elevate the simple chicken breast, while the corn salsa adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends without requiring a lot of time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, diced
- 1 avocado, diced (optional)
- Extra lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, combine corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and avocado if using. Drizzle with a bit of lime juice and mix well. Set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve topped with corn salsa and extra lime wedges on the side.
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken breast doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With these 11 recipes, you get all the bold, smoky, saucy goodness you crave, minus the stress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just whipping up a quick and healthy dinner, there’s a flavor here for every mood. So light up the grill (or preheat that oven), slather on the sauce, and dig in—because great BBQ should be easy, and even better, it should be yours tonight.
