How to Bake Mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Breast Boneless in the Oven

Are you craving some juicy, tender, and flavorful BBQ chicken but don’t want to fire up the grill? Look no further! Baking boneless chicken breasts in the oven is a foolproof way to enjoy delicious BBQ chicken without the hassle. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to achieve perfectly baked BBQ chicken breasts that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Why Bake BBQ Chicken Breast?

Baking chicken breasts in the oven is not only convenient but also a healthier alternative to frying or grilling. It allows you to control the amount of oil or butter used, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake. Additionally, baking ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, resulting in tender and juicy pieces every time.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
• 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 of your favorite BBQ sauce (choose a low-sugar or sugar-free option for a healthier twist)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish or baking pan with a bit of oil or non-stick cooking spray.

2. Season the chicken breasts: In a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow bowl, combine the chicken breasts with avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and white pepper. Shake or toss the chicken until it’s evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

3. Arrange the chicken in the dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared casserole dish or baking pan, leaving some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

4. Brush with BBQ sauce: Using a basting brush or a spoon, generously brush the top of each chicken breast with half of the BBQ sauce.

5. Bake the chicken: Place the casserole dish or baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.

6. Flip and add more sauce: After 20 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven and flip each chicken breast. Brush the flipped side with the remaining BBQ sauce.

7. Continue baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken breasts reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

8. Let it rest: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.

9. Serve and enjoy: Slice the baked BBQ chicken breasts and serve them hot, drizzled with any remaining sauce from the baking dish. Pair them with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips and Variations

• Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a good meat thermometer is highly recommended to ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, while undercooked chicken can pose a health risk.

• Make it spicy: If you prefer a little kick, add some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix or the BBQ sauce.

• Experiment with different BBQ sauces: Don’t be afraid to try out different BBQ sauce varieties, such as honey mustard, Carolina-style, or even homemade BBQ sauce recipes.

• Add a glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness and caramelization, brush the chicken with a glaze made from honey, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar during the last 10 minutes of baking.

• Meal prep: This baked BBQ chicken breast recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply double or triple the recipe and store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Serving Suggestions

Baked BBQ chicken breasts pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some delicious options to consider:

• Mashed potatoes or baked potatoes
• Roasted or grilled vegetables (asparagus, Brussels sprouts, zucchini)
• Coleslaw or potato salad
• Macaroni and cheese
• Cornbread or dinner rolls
• Fresh salads (Caesar, garden, or pasta salad)

With this easy and flavorful recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the deliciousness of BBQ chicken without the need for an outdoor grill. Baked in the oven, these boneless chicken breasts are sure to become a family favorite. So fire up your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor the perfect combination of tender chicken and tangy BBQ sauce in every bite!