BBQ Chicken Skillet: The Ultimate Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
Introduction to BBQ Chicken Skillet
If you’re looking for a quick, comforting meal that packs a punch of flavor, look no further than this BBQ Chicken Skillet recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to whip up something delicious without much fuss, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. With tender chicken, savory BBQ sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a hearty meal that combines ease of preparation with delightful taste. Let’s dive into how you can create this delectable dish in just 20 minutes!
A Personal Story Behind My BBQ Chicken Skillet Journey
Growing up, I always cherished the nights when my family would gather around the table to enjoy a home-cooked meal. One of my fondest memories is of my mom making her famous BBQ chicken. The aroma would fill the house and make our mouths water in anticipation. As I grew older, I wanted to recreate that special dish, but with my own twist. This BBQ Chicken Skillet is my homage to those cherished family dinners—simple yet packed with flavor, just like my mom’s recipe, but designed for today’s busy lifestyle.
What Makes This BBQ Chicken Skillet Recipe Special?
What sets this BBQ Chicken Skillet apart is its simplicity and the ability to customize it to your liking. It’s made with just a handful of ingredients, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the one-pan method means less cleanup, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal rather than washing dishes. The combination of tender chicken thighs with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, topped with melted cheese, creates a delightful comfort food experience that the whole family will love. And of course, it’s versatile! You can easily add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
The Full BBQ Chicken Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add 1/2 cup of thinly sliced onions to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to your dish.
- Season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet with the cooked onions. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes. This helps to lock in moisture.
- Uncover and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking for safety and juiciness.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. This allows the BBQ sauce to coat the chicken evenly. Stir in 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce until well combined.
- Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts. This creates a luscious, cheesy topping that enhances the flavors.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken skillet! For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for BBQ Chicken Skillet
This BBQ Chicken Skillet is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it over a bed of rice or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Want to add some crunch? Consider topping it with crispy tortilla strips or serving it with warm cornbread. You can easily modify the recipe by adding bell peppers, corn, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, to change up the flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Skillet
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be aware that they may cook faster, so keep an eye on the temperature.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Choose your favorite BBQ sauce! Whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy, it will enhance the flavor of the chicken.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, then just reheat and add the cheese when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Indulge in this quick and flavorful BBQ chicken skillet for a satisfying meal! It’s a perfect dish for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the memories it brings back, just as it did for me.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 280
- Servings: 4
BBQ Chicken Skillet
Equipment
- Skillet Medium-sized skillet for cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 0.5 cup shredded cheese
- 0.5 cup thinly sliced onions
- salt and pepper to taste
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
- Add thinly sliced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet.
- Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Uncover and continue cooking until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Shred the cooked chicken using two forks and stir in the BBQ sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture and cover for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve hot and garnish with cilantro or green onions if desired.