Description
This Sweet and Spicy Italian BBQ Grilled Chicken combines tangy Italian dressing with zesty BBQ sauce and a kick of chili powder and red pepper flakes. Marinated for up to overnight to absorb the bold flavors, the chicken breasts are then grilled to juicy perfection, making for a flavorful and easy summer meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- ¾ cup BBQ Sauce
- ¾ cup Italian dressing
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 Tbsp dried red pepper flakes
Chicken
- 6 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: Whisk together the BBQ sauce, Italian dressing, chili powder, and dried red pepper flakes in a medium bowl until well combined, creating a sweet, tangy, and spicy marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-204°C), preparing it for direct grilling.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place them on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes total, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavor but marinating at least 1 hour will still impart great taste.
- Adjust the amount of dried red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by checking with a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Can be served with grilled vegetables, salads, or over rice for a complete meal.
- For a smokier flavor, add wood chips to your grill if using charcoal or a smoker box on gas grills.
