BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe is like a summer party on your plate, bursting with flavor and smoky goodness. Imagine biting into juicy chicken, coated in a creamy ranch sauce that dances on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through the air, making it impossible to resist.
This dish brings back memories of backyard barbecues, laughter, and friends gathered around the grill. It’s perfect for those lazy weekends when you want something delicious without too much fuss. Get ready for an explosion of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Bursting with a zesty flavor profile, this dish is sure to impress guests at any gathering
- With its vibrant colors and appealing presentation, it looks as good as it tastes
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Ingredients for BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade version for that sweet and smoky flavor kick.
Ranch Dressing: Choose a creamy ranch dressing to elevate the flavor profile and add a tangy richness.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps keep the chicken moist while enhancing the overall flavor.
Garlic Powder: This adds a lovely depth of flavor without the hassle of peeling and chopping fresh garlic.
Paprika: I prefer using smoked paprika here to add a subtle depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with BBQ.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe
First Steps: Marinate Your Chicken
Start by combining BBQ sauce and ranch dressing in a bowl until well blended. Coat each chicken breast generously in this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you’re feeling adventurous, marinate overnight for maximum flavor!
Grill Time: Heat Those Coals
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—about 375°F to 400°F is ideal. Once hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking; nobody wants sad chicken pieces stuck on the grill.
Cooking Magic: Grill the Chicken
Place your marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about six to seven minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for those lovely grill marks; they indicate deliciousness!
Finishing Touches: Let It Rest
Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about five minutes. This step allows juices to redistribute within the meat so every bite remains juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions: Time to Feast!
Slice up your BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken and serve it alongside grilled veggies or a fresh salad. Drizzle extra ranch over top or serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side if you’re feeling saucy!
Tips & Tricks: Personal Insights
Remember, you can customize this recipe based on your preferences! Add spices like cayenne pepper if you enjoy heat or sprinkle fresh herbs before serving for an added burst of freshness.
With these simple steps, your BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken will be nothing short of spectacular! Enjoy every bite while reminiscing about those sunny days spent grilling with friends and family.
You Must Know
- This BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by marinating the chicken to infuse it with that delicious BBQ ranch flavor. Grill the chicken over medium heat until it’s perfectly charred and cooked through. While the chicken is cooking, you can whip up a quick side salad for a refreshing complement.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ranch dressing for your favorite sauce, or add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the marinade. Want some crunch? Toss in some chopped vegetables or nuts before grilling for added texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to preserve its juiciness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety
- Marinate your chicken overnight if possible; it truly enhances the flavors
- Let the grilled chicken rest for five minutes before slicing to keep it juicy
Sometimes I whip up this BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe when friends come over, and they can’t stop raving about how good it is—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe?
To prepare the BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, your favorite BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, garlic powder, and black pepper. These ingredients blend together to create a flavorful marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender while grilling. You can also add fresh herbs like parsley for garnish if desired. Make sure to choose high-quality BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning for the best flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken for this recipe?
For optimal flavor, it’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will enhance the taste significantly. The marinade allows the chicken to absorb all those delicious BBQ and ranch flavors. Avoid marinating for more than 4 hours as the acidity in some BBQ sauces can start to break down the meat too much.
Can I use a different cut of chicken for BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use other cuts of chicken such as thighs or drumsticks for this BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe. Thighs are particularly flavorful and remain moist during cooking. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly since darker meat generally takes longer to cook than breasts. Regardless of the cut you choose, make sure to check internal temperatures reach 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What side dishes pair well with BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken?
BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside coleslaw, corn on the cob, or grilled vegetables for a light meal. Potato salad or baked beans also complement this dish nicely. For a refreshing touch, a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette works perfectly too. Choose sides that harmonize with the smoky flavors of the grilled chicken.
Conclusion for BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe :
This BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Recipe offers an easy way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal that everyone will love. By using simple ingredients like chicken breasts and a tasty marinade made from BBQ sauce and ranch seasoning, you can create a dish that’s perfect for summer grilling or any family dinner. Remember to marinate your chicken adequately and pair it with delightful side dishes for a complete meal experience. Enjoy this recipe at your next gathering!
BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken is a summer staple that combines juicy, marinated chicken breasts with a mouthwatering blend of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing. This easy-to-make dish delivers a delightful balance of smoky, tangy flavors, making it perfect for backyard barbecues or cozy family dinners. Serve it alongside vibrant sides for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce and ranch dressing until well combined.
- Generously coat each chicken breast with the marinade and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for enhanced flavor).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F) and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve with your choice of sides, drizzling extra ranch or BBQ sauce if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
