ITALIAN BBQ CHICKEN MARINADE

Italian BBQ Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines the bold flavors of barbecue sauce with the zesty kick of Italian dressing. With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summertime barbecue or simply craving a delicious dinner option, this Italian BBQ Chicken is sure to satisfy.

Why Make Italian BBQ Chicken

This recipe offers a tantalizing twist on classic barbecue chicken, infusing it with the vibrant flavors of Italian dressing. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and zesty Italian dressing creates a marinade that tenderizes the chicken while imparting irresistible flavor. Plus, with minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s a convenient and hassle-free dish for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Italian BBQ Chicken hot off the grill alongside your favorite side dishes, such as corn on the cob, coleslaw, or garlic bread. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.

Storage Info

Any leftover Italian BBQ Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.

Some Techniques or Tips

• For maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This will ensure that the marinade fully infuses the meat, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken.
• To prevent flare-ups on the grill, be sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before placing it on the grill grates.

Variation

Experiment with different types of barbecue sauce and Italian dressing to customize the flavor of the chicken to your liking. You can also try using bone-in chicken pieces or thighs for a different texture and taste.

FAQs about Italian BBQ Chicken

1. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven instead of grilling it. Simply preheat the oven to 375 degrees F, place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for this recipe and offer a juicier, more flavorful alternative to chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked through.

3. Can I freeze the chicken after marinating it?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for future use. Simply place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before grilling or baking.

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 (or bone-in chicken thighs, etc.)

Additional Sauce for Basting (optional):

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

Directions:

1. In a ziplock bag or dish, combine 1 cup of Italian dressing and 1 cup of barbecue sauce for marinating. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s coated well. Allow the chicken to marinate in the fridge for 4 hours.
3. When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any remaining marinade.
4. Grill the chicken until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Optionally, baste the chicken with the additional sauce mixture while grilling.