Get ready for the juiciest BBQ chicken ever! This Traeger recipe combines smoky flavors with perfectly grilled chicken, making it a hit at any cookout.
Honestly, the aroma alone will have your neighbors asking for a plate! I love serving it with a side of coleslaw. It’s an easy way to impress everyone without breaking a sweat!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find them, thighs can also work; they stay juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer.
Barbecue Sauce: I always go for homemade sauce when I can, as it allows you to control the sweetness and spice levels. If you’re short on time, any store-bought sauce will do. Just make sure you love the flavor since it really impacts the dish!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is a great choice for its flavor, but you can substitute it with avocado oil or even melted butter if you prefer. Both add a nice touch to the chicken’s crispiness.
Spices: Smoked paprika is key for that smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika works too. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat or try other spices like cumin or chili powder for a twist!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep the chicken juicy, start by patting the breasts dry. This helps the oil and spices stick better. Make sure to apply olive oil liberally before rubbing in the spice mix; this also helps with browning.
- Preheat your grill well. A hot grill sears the chicken, locking in moisture.
- Cook the chicken with the lid closed to retain heat. This helps cook evenly.
- During the last 10 minutes, brush on the barbecue sauce. This adds flavor and creates a nice glaze without burning it.
- Finally, letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes post-cooking allows juices to redistribute, making every bite tender.
The Best Traeger BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice, homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking on your Traeger grill. Plus, don’t forget to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. It’s super quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C). This allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a nice smoky flavor.
2. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mix will give the chicken delicious flavor, so stir it well to combine!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps the olive oil and spices stick better. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, rubbing it evenly on both sides for a tasty coating.
4. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remember to check it with a meat thermometer!
6. Add BBQ Sauce:
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the chicken. This will create a sticky, delicious glaze that everyone will love!
7. Rest and Slice:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in. After resting, slice the chicken into pieces.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving platter. You can drizzle more barbecue sauce on top if you like. Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious Traeger BBQ chicken!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can certainly use bone-in chicken, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure to adjust the cooking time to about 40-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You may also want to cover the chicken with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes to keep it moist.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or a combination of paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!
How to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the Traeger at a low temperature to keep it juicy.
Can I Make This BBQ Chicken in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions. Bake the chicken on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, brushing with barbecue sauce in the last 10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
