barbecue baked chicken for summer dinners with friends and family
Summer is the perfect time for gatherings with friends and family, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious barbecue baked chicken? This mouthwatering dish combines the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with tender, juicy chicken, making it an ideal centerpiece for any summer dinner. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or a casual family dinner, this barbecue baked chicken will surely impress your guests.
What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity and versatility. It requires minimal prep time, and the oven does most of the work, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones. Plus, you can pair it with a variety of sides to create a well-rounded meal. In this post, we will explore how to make barbecue baked chicken that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let the chicken sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil.
- Place the marinated chicken in the baking dish, skin-side up, and pour half of the barbecue sauce over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well covered.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and brush the remaining barbecue sauce over the chicken. Return the chicken to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Barbecue baked chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that capture the essence of summer. Consider serving it alongside classic coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a refreshing potato salad. Grilled vegetables also make a fantastic addition, bringing color and flavor to your dinner spread.
For a lighter option, serve the chicken with a simple green salad dressed with a zesty vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will balance the richness of the barbecue sauce and chicken. Don’t forget to provide plenty of napkins; things might get a little saucy!
Tips for the Perfect BBQ Baked Chicken
To ensure your barbecue baked chicken turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
- Choose the right chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces are ideal for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful during baking.
- Marinate longer: If you have more time, consider marinating the chicken for several hours or overnight for even deeper flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer: To guarantee that your chicken is cooked to perfection, use a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the meat should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces or add your favorite herbs and spices to the marinade for a personalized touch.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely!), store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
For a quick meal, shredded barbecue chicken can be made from leftovers. Just shred the chicken and mix it with extra barbecue sauce, then serve it on buns for delicious pulled chicken sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but be aware that cooking times may vary. Boneless chicken generally cooks faster, so start checking for doneness at around 20-25 minutes.
2. What barbecue sauce should I use?
You can use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce or make your own. A homemade sauce can be tailored to your taste, whether you prefer it sweet, tangy, or smoky.
3. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?
Absolutely! If you prefer grilling, marinate the chicken as directed and then grill it over medium heat, turning occasionally until it is cooked through.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can easily be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free barbecue sauce. Just check the labels to ensure that all ingredients are suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
Barbecue baked chicken is a fantastic dish for summer dinners with friends and family. Its simplicity, delicious flavor, and ability to please a crowd make it a must-try recipe. Pair it with your favorite sides, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a memorable meal together. Happy cooking!
