Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill and get cooking!
One of the most popular dishes for outdoor grilling is BBQ chicken, and for good reason. It’s tangy, juicy, and has just the right amount of char.
But have you ever wondered if you can marinate chicken in BBQ sauce? The answer is yes! In fact, marinating chicken in BBQ sauce before grilling infuses every bite with flavor.
But how long should you marinate it for? And what type of BBQ sauce should you use?
In this article, we’ll answer all your questions about marinating chicken in BBQ sauce and share some delicious recipes to try out this summer. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Can You Marinate Chicken In BBQ Sauce?
As mentioned earlier, marinating chicken in BBQ sauce is a great way to add flavor to your grilled chicken. The sugars in the BBQ sauce help to create a delicious char on the outside of the chicken, while also keeping it juicy and tender on the inside.
When it comes to marinating, it’s recommended to let the chicken sit in the BBQ sauce for at least two hours. However, if you have more time, letting it marinate overnight in the refrigerator will result in even tastier chicken.
As for what type of BBQ sauce to use, there are many options available. You can use a ready-made bottle of BBQ sauce and add your own spices and herbs to it, or you can make your own from scratch. Some popular types of BBQ sauce include Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, and even Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce.
It’s important to note that if you’re using bone-in chicken, cooking times may vary. It’s recommended to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that each piece of chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Why Marinate Chicken In BBQ Sauce?
Marinating chicken in BBQ sauce not only adds flavor to the meat, but it also helps to tenderize it. The acid in the BBQ sauce breaks down the proteins in the chicken, making it more tender and juicy. Additionally, marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce before grilling infuses every bite with flavor, ensuring that each piece of meat is delicious and satisfying.
Moreover, marinating chicken in BBQ sauce is a great way to get ahead on prep. By letting the chicken sit in the marinade overnight in the refrigerator, you can save time and effort on the day of your barbecue. Plus, it allows the flavors to meld together and intensify, resulting in even tastier chicken.
How Long Should You Marinate Chicken In BBQ Sauce?
When it comes to marinating chicken in BBQ sauce, the longer you can let it sit, the better. While at least two hours is recommended, marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator will result in even more flavorful and juicy chicken.
It’s important to note that marinating times may vary depending on the type of chicken you’re using. Bone-in chicken may take longer to cook, so it’s recommended to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure that each piece of chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
When it comes to choosing a BBQ sauce for your marinade, there are many options available. You can use a ready-made bottle of BBQ sauce and add your own spices and herbs to it, or you can make your own from scratch. Some popular types of BBQ sauce include Kansas City-style, Carolina-style, and even Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce.
To marinate your chicken in BBQ sauce, simply pour the sauce over the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag. Make sure that the chicken is fully coated in the marinade and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.
Choosing The Right BBQ Sauce For Marinating
When choosing a BBQ sauce for marinating chicken, it’s important to consider the flavor profile you want to achieve. Some BBQ sauces are sweeter, while others are more tangy or spicy. It’s a good idea to taste the sauce before using it as a marinade to ensure it’s the right fit for your taste buds.
Another consideration is the thickness of the BBQ sauce. A thicker sauce will coat the chicken better and result in a more flavorful dish. However, if the sauce is too thick, it may not penetrate the meat as well during the marinating process.
If you’re looking for a classic BBQ flavor, a Kansas City-style sauce is a great option. This type of sauce is typically sweet and tangy with a hint of smokiness. For those who prefer a spicier kick, try a Carolina-style sauce, which is known for its vinegar-based tang and spicy heat.
For something a little different, consider using Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce. This unique sauce combines the sweetness of Dr. Pepper soda with traditional BBQ flavors like brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce.
Tips For Marinating Chicken In BBQ Sauce
1. Use enough BBQ sauce to fully coat the chicken: To ensure that the chicken is fully infused with flavor, make sure to use enough BBQ sauce to fully coat each piece of chicken. Aim for about 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce per pound of chicken.
2. Add extra spices and herbs: While ready-made BBQ sauce is delicious on its own, adding extra spices and herbs can take your marinade to the next level. Some great options include garlic, chili powder, paprika, and Italian dressing.
3. Clean and oil your grill grates: To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill grates, make sure to clean and oil them before cooking. This will also help to create a crispy skin on the chicken.
4. Use a sealable plastic bag or shallow dish for marinating: When marinating the chicken, use a sealable plastic bag or a shallow dish with a lid. This will help to ensure that the chicken is fully coated in the marinade and will prevent any spills or leaks.
5. Don’t reuse marinade: Once you’ve used the marinade on raw chicken, do not reuse it for anything else. This can lead to cross-contamination and increase the risk of foodborne illness.
6. Experiment with different types of BBQ sauce: Don’t be afraid to try different types of BBQ sauce when marinating your chicken. From sweet and tangy to spicy and smoky, there are endless options to choose from.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create delicious and flavorful BBQ chicken every time you grill.
Delicious BBQ Chicken Recipes To Try This Summer
Now that you know how to marinate chicken in BBQ sauce, let’s take a look at some delicious BBQ chicken recipes to try this summer.
1. Grilled BBQ Chicken: This classic recipe is super easy and perfect for beginners. Simply marinate bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces in BBQ sauce for at least two hours, then grill until fully cooked. Brush with additional BBQ sauce while grilling for extra flavor.
2. Buttermilk BBQ Chicken: For a twist on traditional BBQ chicken, try marinating your chicken in buttermilk before adding the BBQ sauce. The acidity in the buttermilk helps to tenderize the chicken and adds a tangy flavor.
3. Beer Can Chicken: This fun and flavorful recipe involves placing a half-full can of beer inside the cavity of a whole chicken and grilling it until fully cooked. The beer helps to keep the chicken moist while also adding flavor.
4. Grilled Monterey Chicken: This recipe combines BBQ sauce, cheese, and bacon for a mouthwatering flavor explosion. Marinate boneless chicken breasts in a simple marinade of olive oil & vinegar dressing, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce before grilling. Top with BBQ sauce, Marble Jack cheese slices, and crumbled bacon for an unforgettable meal.
No matter which recipe you choose, marinating your chicken in BBQ sauce is sure to result in deliciously juicy and flavorful grilled chicken.
