Indulge in the savory flavors of Italian BBQ Chicken, a mouthwatering dish that combines the sweetness of barbecue sauce with the tanginess of Italian dressing. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Why Try This Recipe:

This recipe offers a delicious twist on classic barbecue chicken, infusing it with Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients Summary:

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 (or bone-in chicken thighs)

Additional Sauce for Basting (optional):

1/3 cup Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce
1/3 cup Viva Italian Dressing (or Zesty Italian)

Serving Suggestions:

Pair your flavorful Italian BBQ Chicken with classic barbecue sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, or grilled corn on the cob. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Info:

Any leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the grill until warmed through before serving.

Techniques or Tips:

To ensure maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before grilling.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to achieve perfectly grilled chicken with beautiful grill marks.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Baste the chicken with the additional sauce during grilling for added flavor and moisture.

Variation:

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can experiment with different barbecue sauces or Italian dressings to create unique flavor combinations. Try adding minced garlic, fresh herbs, or a splash of citrus juice to the marinade for extra depth of flavor.

FAQs About the Recipe:

Q: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in cuts may take slightly longer to cook than boneless breasts.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it? A: Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the additional sauce halfway through baking for extra flavor.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to grill. Just be sure to discard any remaining marinade before cooking.