Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

Moist and flavorful, Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken is a delicious dish that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering meal. This recipe features a homemade sweet and spicy dry rub that highlights the chicken’s natural flavors. Perfect for barbecues, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, this dish is sure to impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have a tasty meal ready in under 20 minutes.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices creates a vibrant flavor profile that elevates any grilled chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with pineapple salsa or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Health-Conscious: Packed with protein and low in carbs, it’s a great option for those looking to eat healthily without sacrificing taste.
• Easy Cleanup: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe easy to follow and clean up after.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect barbecue dry rubbed chicken, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help ensure your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the ideal cooking environment for achieving perfectly grilled chicken with charred flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the dry rub ingredients evenly, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• Measuring spoons: Help accurately measure spices for the dry rub, delivering consistent results every time.
• Paper towels: Useful for drying the chicken breasts before applying the rub, which helps it adhere better.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dry Rub

• 1-2 Tb paprika
• 2 Tb light brown sugar
• pinch red pepper flakes
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder

For the Chicken

• 2-3 chicken breasts (roughly 1lb)

For Serving

• Pineapple salsa

How to Make Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients.
2. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Pound down each breast to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Coat all sides of the chicken breasts thoroughly with the dry rub mixture.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-low heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Place coated chicken on the grill.
2. Cook for 5-8 minutes per side or until no longer pink in the center.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove from grill and let rest briefly.
2. Serve alongside fresh pineapple salsa for a refreshing contrast to the spicy rub.

Enjoy your delightful Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

Serving Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken can elevate your meal and impress your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

With Fresh Salads

• Crisp Garden Salad: Complement the chicken’s flavors with a fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw make a perfect contrast to the sweet and spicy rub on the chicken.

With Salsas

• Pineapple Salsa: This is a fresh pairing that brings sweetness and acidity, balancing the barbecue dry rub beautifully.
• Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa adds a tropical touch and freshness that pairs well with grilled chicken.

On Sandwiches

• Barbecue Chicken Sandwich: Shred the cooked chicken and serve it on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a delicious sandwich.
• Tortilla Wraps: Roll sliced chicken in tortillas with avocado, cheese, and veggies for a quick meal on the go.

How to Perfect Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

Achieving perfect Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices not only enhance flavor but also ensure that your dry rub has maximum potency.
• Pat Chicken Dry: Removing excess moisture from the chicken allows the rub to adhere better and creates a nice crust when grilled.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps retain its juices for a moist final product.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Cooking at medium-low heat prevents burning while allowing thorough cooking for juicy chicken.
• Baste During Cooking: For added flavor, baste the chicken with reserved marinade or additional pineapple juice while grilling.

Best Side Dishes for Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken can create a complete meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful main course.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled until tender.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or sprinkled with chili powder makes an excellent summer side dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon dressing adds protein and texture.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream or chives provide comfort alongside grilled chicken.
5. Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf flavored with herbs can absorb juices from the chicken while adding substance to your plate.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes bring sweetness that complements the spices in the dry rub beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Dry Rub: Not applying a dry rub or using it sparingly can lead to bland chicken. Ensure every side is well-coated for maximum flavor.
• Neglecting Chicken Preparation: Failing to pat the chicken dry or pound it to an even thickness can result in uneven cooking. Always prepare your chicken properly for the best grilling results.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Monitor closely and remove it from the grill as soon as it’s no longer pink inside.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Grilling at too high a heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Preheat your grill and aim for medium-low heat for even cooking.
• Forgetting About Side Dishes: Not pairing your chicken with complementary sides like pineapple salsa can miss out on balancing flavors. Always serve your dish with sides that enhance its taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen chicken can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Reheat over low heat in a skillet, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken:

How do I make the dry rub for Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken?

The dry rub is made by combining paprika, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes! While this recipe is tailored for chicken, you can easily substitute turkey or beef if preferred.

What should I serve with Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken?

Pair this dish with refreshing sides like pineapple salsa, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad to complement the flavors.

How long does it take to cook Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken?

The grilling time is approximately 10-16 minutes total, depending on thickness. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Final Thoughts

Barbecue Dry Rubbed Chicken is not just moist and flavorful; it’s also versatile enough for any dinner occasion. Feel free to customize the spice levels or try different salsas for unique twists. Enjoy this delightful dish at your next meal!