Description
This Italian BBQ Chicken recipe is incredibly simple, requiring only three main ingredients. It combines the tanginess of Italian dressing with the sweetness of barbecue sauce to create a flavor-packed marinade. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, this chicken is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor. It’s versatile enough to be cooked on the grill, in the oven, or even in a skillet.
Ingredients
- Marinade:
- 1 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup Viva Italian Dressing (or Zesty Italian)
- 1 1/2 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (works great with bone-in chicken, thighs, and more)
- Additional Sauce for Basting (optional):
- 1/3 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce
- 1/3 cup Viva Italian Dressing (or Zesty Italian)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade: In a large Ziploc bag or a non-reactive dish, combine 1 cup of Italian dressing and 1 cup of barbecue sauce. Mix well to ensure they are thoroughly combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bag or dish, making sure each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
Step 3: Refrigerate: Place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Step 4: Preheat Grill (or Oven): When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-450°F). Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 5: Grill or Bake the Chicken:
- Grill: Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the used marinade). Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using additional sauce for basting, brush the chicken with the mixture during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Oven: Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If using additional sauce for basting, brush the chicken with the mixture during the last few minutes of baking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because of its simplicity and incredible flavor. The combination of Italian dressing and barbecue sauce creates a tangy, sweet, and savory profile that appeals to everyone. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be adapted to different cuts of chicken or cooking methods. Plus, with just three main ingredients, it’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: Serve with grilled vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions), a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
- Grains: Pair with rice pilaf, quinoa, or roasted potatoes.
- Sandwiches: Slice the chicken and serve it on buns with your favorite toppings for a delicious sandwich.
- Pasta: Dice the chicken and add it to pasta with a light tomato sauce or pesto.
Tips
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. However, even a 4-hour marinade will provide great results.
- Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked.
- Basting: Basting with the additional sauce mixture during the last few minutes of cooking will create a beautiful glaze and enhance the flavor.
- Bone-In Chicken: If using bone-in chicken, increase the cooking time accordingly and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours, 25 minutes (including marinating time)
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Calories: 350 Protein: 40g Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
Italian BBQ Chicken is a fantastic recipe for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and flavorful meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking on the stovetop, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe
- Can I use other types of barbecue sauce?
- Yes, you can definitely experiment with different barbecue sauces to find your favorite flavor combination. A smoky, honey, or spicy BBQ sauce would all work well.
- What if I don’t have Italian dressing?
- If you don’t have Italian dressing, you can use a similar vinaigrette or make your own by combining olive oil, vinegar, herbs (like oregano and basil), garlic, and a pinch of sugar.
- Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
- Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Is it possible to freeze the marinated chicken?
- Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade. This is a great way to prepare meals in advance. Just thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will result in even more flavorful and juicy chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
