BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken: The Ultimate Chicken Recipe
Introduction to BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken
BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the grill right into your kitchen. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe offers a savory, smoky taste that everyone will love. With its easy preparation and incredible taste, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
A Personal Story Behind My BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken Journey
Growing up, summer evenings meant BBQ nights at my house. The aroma of spices and grilling chicken filled the air, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. My grandmother had a special spice rub she would always use, and I’ve taken inspiration from those memories to create this BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken recipe. It reminds me of warm family gatherings and delicious food shared with loved ones.
What Makes This BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its perfect blend of spices that packs a punch! The combination of chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder creates a flavorful rub that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. Additionally, the BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy finish that complements the spices beautifully. What’s more, it’s a simple recipe that requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
The Full BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ cup BBQ sauce, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking tray by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper to create your spice rub. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your chicken.
- Place the chicken on the baking tray and pat it dry with a paper towel. This is important for ensuring a nice crust on the chicken. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with the spice rub.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush the chicken with BBQ sauce. This adds a wonderful glaze and flavor.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for lean cuts. For more tender results with darker cuts, aim for a temperature of 175°F to 190°F (80°C to 88°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the meat retain its juices. For extra juiciness, cover the chicken with foil while it rests!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken
This BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. You can also shred the chicken and serve it in sandwiches or wraps for a delicious lunch option. For those who love a bit of heat, feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more chili powder to the rub!
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken, but be mindful that it may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Can I make the spice rub ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the spice rub in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a month.
What should I do if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you can marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and your favorite spices for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
BBQ Spice-Rubbed Chicken
Equipment
- Oven Preheat to 400°F (200°C)
- Baking tray Line with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 0.5 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking tray by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper to create your spice rub. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your chicken.
- Place the chicken on the baking tray and pat it dry with a paper towel. This is important for ensuring a nice crust on the chicken. Generously coat both sides of the chicken with the spice rub.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and brush the chicken with BBQ sauce. This adds a wonderful glaze and flavor.
- Return the chicken to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for lean cuts. For more tender results with darker cuts, aim for a temperature of 175°F to 190°F (80°C to 88°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the meat retain its juices. For extra juiciness, cover the chicken with foil while it rests!