Perfect Grilled Chicken Breasts

Fire up the grill and whip up this recipe for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Breasts. Marinated with one ingredient, this recipe couldn’t be simpler!

The most delicious perfectly grilled chicken

There’s nothing quite like a nice grilled meal, especially in the summertime. Anything grilled and served up with summer classics (watermelon, corn on the cob, etc.) just feels like a treat! With that in mind, I set out to put together a grilled chicken recipe that would not only taste good, but also inspire new grillers to try their hand at a classic. I give you: the perfect grilled chicken breast recipe!

When it comes to grilling chicken, things can get complicated. But at Erin Lives Whole, I’m all about making cooking as simple as possible. So whether you’re a seasoned grilling pro or you’re new to the world of “firin’ up the grill” cool dad style, this recipe breaks it down and makes it easy. I’m confident you’re going to love it!

Ingredients used to make juicy grilled chicken breasts

We’ll be using BBQ sauce to marinate the chicken, making this a simple and easy recipe. Below you’ll find the proper ingredient amounts.

• Chicken breasts: For this recipe, we’ll be using 4 chicken breasts. You can double it, just be sure to double the BBQ sauce as well!
• BBQ sauce: 4 chicken breasts will use up 1/2 cup of BBQ Sauce for marinating. I recommend using Bachman’s Japanese BBQ sauce, though you can use any brand.
• Non-stick spray: Nonstick spray will be used to grease the grill prior to cooking.

Kitchen tools that you’ll need to create this recipe

This recipe requires standard marinating and grilling ingredients.

• Ziploc bag
• Grill
• Nonstick spray (or paper towel and olive oil)
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer
• Measuring cups: 1/2 cup

How to make perfect grilled chicken breasts

Not only does this recipe taste great, it’s also easy to make! Here’s how it’s done:

Begin by marinating the chicken. Coat it in the BBQ sauce, place it in a Ziploc bag, and let it sit for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

When ready to prepare, heat the grill to high and let it heat to about 450°F.

Once hot, spray it with nonstick spray or use a paper towel coated in olive oil to grease the grates.

Add the chicken directly to the heat top side-down, and reduce the heat to medium-high. Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook for 6 minutes on that first side. After 6 minutes, flip it and re-close the lid.

Let the chicken cook for another 6 minutes.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should be around 155°F and will continue to cook after it’s removed from the heat. If lower than 155°, return to the grill for a couple of extra minutes (lid closed).

Once fully cooked, let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it.

Sides to pair with this recipe

Wondering what you should pair with this grilled chicken? Here are some ideas!

If you’re in the mood for some carbs, pair the chicken with Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, Crispy Baked Chili Lime Sweet Potato Fries, or Mashed Potatoes.

Veggies are always a great choice. Try it with Oven Roasted Honey Carrots or Healthy Green Bean Casserole!

You can’t go wrong with a side salad. Depending on if you’re in the mood for fruity or savory, you can enjoy the grilled chicken with Fresh Watermelon Salad or Creamy Italian Chopped Salad.

Can I use any type of BBQ sauce?

You can! While I recommend Bachman’s Japanese BBQ Sauce for its yummy flavor, any brand will work. Use your favorite!

What temperature indicates fully cooked chicken?

If you missed it above, chicken should reach 155°F before being removed from heat. It’s fully cooked when it reaches 165°F. It continues cooking for a few minutes after removing from the grill, so you can safely remove it at 155°F.

Why does the chicken need to sit before cutting?

Cooked chicken contains a lot of juices. By letting it sit, it gives the meat time to absorb all of those juices. If you cut into it too early, they’ll leak out and create a dryer texture.

How to get I get juicy chicken?

In addition to the tip above, another way to help create a juicy chicken result is by making sure you reduce the grill heat to medium-high immediately after adding the chicken. If cooked at higher temperatures, the chicken will wind up dryer. Cooking at medium-high helps achieve a juicier result.

If you liked this recipe, you’ll want to try these!

Looking for some more delicious chicken recipes? Try one of these!

• Chicken Caesar Wrap Recipe
• Chicken Enchilada Skillet
• Healthy Penne Alla Vodka with Chicken
• Chicken Piccata Meatballs
• Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Thighs

All recipes by Erin Morrissey and Photos by Sierra Inn