This BBQ chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor! Using a Traeger smoker, you can achieve that perfect, smoky goodness that everyone loves.
Let’s face it, nothing beats the smell of BBQ chicken cooking away in the backyard. I like to serve it with some corn on the cob and watch everyone dig in with big smiles! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling because they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, chicken thighs can be a flavorful substitute as they’re juicier.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. If you want to make your own, combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices for a homemade version. Make sure it’s balanced in sweetness and tang!
Olive Oil: This helps the marinade stick and adds moisture. Grapeseed or avocado oil are good alternatives if you need to swap it out, keeping the flavors intact.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika give deep flavor. For a twist, try using fresh garlic and onion or adding cayenne for some heat. Adjust based on your spice preference!
Fresh Parsley: This is more than just a garnish! It adds a lovely fresh flavor. You can substitute it with cilantro if you prefer a different herb, or leave it out entirely if you want.
How Do I Get Juicy, Flavorful Chicken on the Grill?
The key to juicy chicken is in the marinating and grilling process. Make sure to thoroughly coat the chicken breasts with the marinade; this not only adds flavor but also helps retain moisture.
- Preheat the grill properly to ensure even cooking.
- Flip the chicken halfway through to avoid uneven cooking.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- Rest your chicken for 5 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite moist.
The Best Traeger BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your tasty BBQ chicken in just about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C). This helps get it nice and hot for cooking the chicken evenly.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a nice marinade.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and rub the marinade all over them. Make sure each piece is well-coated with that flavorful marinade for delicious results.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on the grill grates. Grill them for about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through to make sure they cook evenly on both sides!
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the chicken breasts generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. This gives the chicken a nice flavorful glaze.
6. Check for Doneness:
To make sure your chicken is fully cooked, check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once it’s ready, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
7. Serve:
Now, slice the chicken and serve it with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious Traeger BBQ chicken!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in chicken, be aware that it may take longer to cook. Aim for a grilling time of about 25-35 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (74°C). Also, you might want to cover the grill to help maintain heat and cook the chicken evenly.
What Type of BBQ Sauce Works Best?
You can use any BBQ sauce you enjoy! Sweet, smoky, or tangy varieties all work well. If you want a homemade touch, try making your BBQ sauce from scratch using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and your favorite spices for a personal flavor twist.
How to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken?
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken; just be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavor even more. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Be mindful not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too soft from the marinade.
