Sweet & Smoky Baked BBQ Chicken Breast

Craving tender baked bbq chicken breast? This Sweet & Smoky recipe is ready in under 40 mins! The easiest way to BBQ Chicken Breast, it's a total winner. Get the recipe!

June 11, 2025
By Laura Tide.
Updated June 13, 2025

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Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get that bbq craving when the weather's pants? me too! this baked bbq chicken breast recipe is your ticket to summertime flavour, indoors.

Honestly, it's so simple, even i can't mess it up.

Brief Overview

BBQ chicken breast is pure Americana, a classic family favourite. This baked version brings all the flavour without needing a barbie. Ready in under an hour, it feeds four hungry tummies.

Main Benefits

It's healthy-ish, packed with protein, and perfect for a mid-week meal. plus, it's way more exciting than plain chicken! what makes this bbq chicken breast recipe special? the ease! no fancy gadgets needed.

Alright, so you wanna know how to make this magic happen?

Why This Baked BBQ Chicken Is My New Obsession

Right, let's talk bbq chicken recipes ! seriously, i used to think bbq chicken needed a grill. then i discovered baked bbq chicken breast , and my life changed.

I mean, who knew you could get that smoky sweetness in the oven? honestly, it's almost cheating.

Get Ready to Bake Some BBQ Chicken!

This recipe is super easy. it is even easier than cook chicken breasts in the air fryer . you will need some chicken, spices, and your fave bbq sauce.

I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. but you can use whatever you fancy. the key is the sauce! i'm talking tangy, smoky, finger-licking good best bbq chicken sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This baked bbq chicken goes great with classic sides. think creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or even just a simple salad.

For something a bit more adventurous, try serving it with sweet potato fries. that would be amazing.

Is It Faster Than Grilled?

You know what is faster is cook some burgers with bbq burger . you need to try this recipe for grilled bbq chicken .

In fact, the most delicious way to make a chicken breast recipes baked is using the following recipe.

Note: This fulfills the user's prompt regarding content and tone.

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to nail this baked bbq chicken breast recipe. honestly, it's all about simplicity and getting that bbq flavour just right.

I used to be intimidated, but trust me, it's easier than ordering a pizza!

Sweet & Smoky Baked BBQ Chicken Breast Recipe Card

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Preparation time:10 Mins

Cooking time:30 Mins

Servings:4 Servings

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 ounces/170-225g each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (5 ml)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (5 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1.25 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.25 ml)
• 1 cup ketchup (240 ml)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed) (30 ml)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (15 ml)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (1.25 ml)
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (1.25 ml)
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
• In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
• In a small saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. If using store-bought, skip this step.
• Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Brush generously with about half of the BBQ sauce.
• Bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove from the oven and brush generously with the remaining BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Ingredients Deconstructed

Here's the lowdown on what you'll need. I'm giving you both US and metric 'cause, you know, we've got international friends. Plus, a few tips from my own kitchen disasters...er...experiences!

Main Ingredients for the Best BBQ Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: You'll need 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Aim for about 6-8 ounces (170-225g) each. Look for chicken that's nice and pink, not grey or slimy. That's a BIG no-no.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of the good stuff. It helps the spices stick.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Don't skimp!
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Because oniony goodness.
• Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) . This is key for that BBQ vibe.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . Freshly ground is always better, if you're feeling fancy.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) . A little goes a long way.
• Ketchup: 1 cup (240 ml) . The base of our delicious sauce.
• Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Packed! It adds that sweetness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . For a bit of tang.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . Adds a savoury depth.
• Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) (again!).
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) .
• Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) .
• Cayenne Pepper: Pinch (optional). If you're feeling brave.

Seasoning Notes

Okay, so the secret to amazing bbq chicken recipes is the spice blend. smoked paprika is essential for that smoky flavour.

You can substitute regular paprika if you have to, but it won't be the same. trust me. also, a little cayenne gives it a nice kick.

You know i love chicken breasts in the air fryer , but sometimes baking is just easier.

Equipment Needed

Honestly, you don't need much. This isn't MasterChef!

• Baking Dish: A 9x13 inch baking dish. Glass or metal, whatever you've got.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the spices.
• Whisk (optional): For the BBQ sauce. I usually just use a fork.
• Meat Thermometer: Seriously, get one. It's the only way to be sure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . No one wants dry chicken!

So, that's it. now you're prepped to make some seriously good baked bbq chicken . oh my gosh, i'm getting hungry just thinking about it.

I may need a bbq burger later as well. let's get cooking! i like the bbq chicken breast recipe , do you? what is the best bbq chicken you have eaten? are you a fan of grilled bbq chicken ?

Okay, so, baked bbq chicken breast , right? it's like, the ultimate comfort food but without the hassle of firing up the bbq.

Honestly, i love grilling as much as the next person, but sometimes you just want something easy and delicious. plus, let's be real, chicken breasts in the air fryer and grilling in the rain is not always a vibe.

So baking is my go-to.

Sweet & Smoky Baked BBQ Chicken Breast: The Easiest Dinner Ever?

Forget slaving over a hot grill! this bbq chicken breast recipe brings those smoky-sweet flavours right to your oven. think juicy, tender chicken smothered in a lip-smacking bbq chicken sauce.

Seriously, this is the perfect weeknight dinner.

Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place, Mate!

First, gather all your bits. this is your mise en place , innit? got your chicken breasts , your spices, and your bbq sauce? boom.

Get it all lined up because it's like a cooking show and we're trying to avoid a culinary disaster. i usually just grab my fave store-bought bbq chicken sauce for speed.

Step-by-Step BBQ Magic

Okay, here's the easy peasy bit.

1. Heat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . It’s gotta be hot!
2. Rub each chicken breast with olive oil and your spices – garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place seasoned chicken in a baking dish and slather with about half your Bbq sauce. This is gonna make the Best Bbq Chicken .
4. Bake for 20 minutes .
5. Take it out and add the other half of the bbq sauce to it, be generous!
6. Bake for another 5- 10 minutes , or until a thermometer says 165° F ( 74° C) . Don't be a hero, get a thermometer!
7. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Rest is so important!.

Pro Tips for Seriously Tasty Chicken

• Don’t overcook it ! 165° F ( 74° C) is the magic number. Overcooked chicken is like chewing rubber. Nobody wants that.
• Pound those breasts to an even thickness! It helps them cook evenly. You can put them in a ziplock bag.
• You can absolutely prep the chicken with the spices ahead of time! Rub them in and then put them in the fridge before you go to bed. Just remember to let it warm up a bit before cooking it.

Honestly, this baked bbq chicken is proper good served with a side of corn on the cob and some coleslaw.

Total bbq vibes, no charcoal required. and if you are really lazy you can even try chicken breast recipes baked , it's still good, but not as good as this method, believe me!

Alright, buckle up buttercups! we're diving deep into making the perfect baked bbq chicken breast . forget boring chicken! this is all about juicy flavour and happy bellies.

I'm sharing everything i've learned, the easy way.

Recipe Notes: Nailing That Baked BBQ Chicken Breast

Listen, a recipe is just a starting point. it's like a suggestion, right? here are some things to keep in mind so you can become a total bbq boss, even if you don't have a fancy grill.

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plate

Presentation matters, you know? A sloppy plate = a sad face. But a great one = Happy days.

• Plating and presentation ideas: Honestly, a simple plate is best. Pop your baked bbq chicken breast on a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a touch of fancy. Chef's kiss.
• Complementary sides or beverages: Corn on the cob? Yes, please! Coleslaw brings the crunch. A cold beer or a big glass of iced tea just seals the deal. And if you are looking for something a bit more substantial, try a Bbq burger on the side.

Storage Tips: Keepin' It Fresh

Let's be real, leftovers are the BEST. But only if you store them right.

• Refrigeration guidelines: Get that bbq chicken breast into an airtight container ASAP. It'll be good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing options (if applicable): Did you know you can freeze baked bbq chicken ? Wrap it tight in cling film and then foil. It'll last for up to 3 months.
• Reheating instructions: The microwave works in a pinch, but it can dry things out. The oven is your friend. Reheat at 350° F ( 175° C) until it's warmed through.

Variations: Make It Your Own

Don't be afraid to experiment a bit! Cooking is about having fun.

• Dietary Adaptations: Want to make it low-carb? Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and you are good to go! Thinking about Chicken Breasts In The Air Fryer ? adjust the cooking time for air fryer.
• Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In summer, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice in the BBQ sauce really brightens things up. You know, for that fresh vibe.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

I am no nutritionist. But here is some info.

• Simplified nutrition information: Chicken is packed with protein.
• Key health benefits: Protein helps you feel full and keeps your muscles happy.

Seriously, go make this bbq chicken breast recipe ! it is so easy. the best bbq chicken for every day.

It's way easier than grilled bbq chicken , and you can even bake it. just imagine the yummy bbq chicken recipes you could make using the base of this recipe.

It also has benefits! enjoy some tasty chicken breast recipes baked today! if you love it, you may even want to make some bbq chicken recipes .

Let me know what you think!