Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Name: Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving); Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe By:

Alexandra

Posted:

June 4, 2025

Updated:

June 4, 2025

Pin1

1 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

This Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It comes together in just 30 minutes and delivers juicy, flavorful chicken that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick meal, this dish fits the bill. The combination of smoky spices and tangy BBQ sauce makes it a standout choice that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Flavorful Rub: The spice blend adds a delicious smoky flavor that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
Versatile Dish: Serve with rice, salad, or veggies for a complete meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most ingredients at home, making it easy to whip up on short notice.
Healthy Option: Lean chicken breasts provide protein without excess fat, fitting into many dietary plans.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick spray or foil/parchment paper
Baking tray
Small mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Instant-read meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick spray or foil/parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Baking tray: Provides a sturdy surface for even cooking of the chicken.
Instant-read meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the perfect temperature while preventing overcooking.

Ingredients

This juicy Baked BBQ Chicken recipe is seasoned with a smoky rub and slathered in tangy BBQ sauce for an easy weeknight recipe in 30 minutes!

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

For the Spice Rub

1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

For the Sauce

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Prepare your baking tray by spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, stir together the following:
1. Chili powder
2. Smoked paprika
3. Garlic powder
4. Onion powder
5. Sea salt
6. Black pepper

Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken on the baking tray. Use a paper towel to pat the chicken dry. Coat both sides of each piece with the spice rub you made earlier.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken uncovered for 20 minutes. After this time, remove it from the oven and coat each piece generously with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until cooked through; an instant-read meat thermometer should read 165°F for white meat or between 175°F and 190°F for dark meat.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period helps make it juicier and more tender. Pro tip: To enhance juiciness further, cover the chicken with foil while it rests!

Enjoy your deliciously Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast!

How to Serve Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Serving your Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast is a delightful experience. With its juicy flavor and smoky aroma, this dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance the meal.

Classic Pairings

Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw balances the richness of the chicken.
Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread complements the savory BBQ sauce beautifully.

Fresh Salads

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing add freshness alongside the chicken.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.

Hearty Additions

Baked Beans: These sweet and savory beans are a traditional BBQ side that goes perfectly with chicken.
Grilled Vegetables: Colorful veggies add nutrition and taste, enhancing the overall meal.

How to Perfect Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

To achieve the best results with your Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast, consider these helpful tips. Each one can elevate your dish to new heights!

Bold seasoning: Ensure you generously coat the chicken with the spice rub for maximum flavor.
Use high-quality BBQ sauce: Select a sauce that matches your taste preference—smoky, sweet, or spicy.
Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of baking to prevent dryness.
Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking helps retain juices for a more succulent bite.
Experiment with marinades: Try marinating the chicken in your favorite BBQ sauce before cooking for added depth.
Use a meat thermometer: Invest in an instant-read thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Choosing side dishes for your Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast can enhance your meal experience. These options will complement your main dish wonderfully.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes that pair well with BBQ flavors.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a summer feel to your dinner.
Macaroni and Cheese: This comfort food staple brings creaminess that balances out smoky notes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts offer a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with tender chicken.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness provides a delicious contrast to savory BBQ sauce.
Quinoa Salad: A light, nutritious option packed with protein and vegetables for balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

There are a few common mistakes to watch out for when making this Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe. Avoiding these can ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time.

Skipping the spice rub: Not seasoning the chicken well can lead to bland flavor. Always coat your chicken thoroughly with the spice rub for optimal taste.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F for breasts or 175°F for thighs.
Not letting it rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking may result in lost juices. Letting it rest for at least 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
Using low-quality BBQ sauce: A poor quality sauce can ruin an otherwise great dish. Choose a BBQ sauce that you love for better flavor.
Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature may lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 400°F as specified in the recipe.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and cover the chicken with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover while warming the chicken through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as it will take longer than boneless pieces.

What side dishes go well with baked BBQ chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or roasted vegetables, making it versatile for different meals.

How can I customize this Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe?

Feel free to experiment by adding different spices or using various BBQ sauces based on your preference for a unique twist each time.

Can I marinate the chicken before baking?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight will enhance flavor and tenderness but be sure not to soak it too long if using acidic marinades like vinegar-based sauces.

What should I do if I have leftover BBQ sauce?

Store any extra sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week, or freeze it for later use on other dishes!

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe is not only quick and delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize the spices and sauces according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress! Give it a try and enjoy flavorful results every time!