BEST SWEET BABY RAY’S CHICKEN

A craving hits for that perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky, and nothing else will do. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, tender chicken coated in that iconic Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce, cooked to sticky perfection. This Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken recipe is your one-way ticket to flavor town, and I promise, it’s easier than ordering takeout!

The Star of the Show: Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken:

• Approximately 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (I personally love using a mix!)

The Sauce Sensation:

• 1 1/2 cups Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce (or your favorite flavor!)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang!)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that extra smoky depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Extras (for Serving):

• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Cooked rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain
• Steamed broccoli or other veggies

Prepping for BBQ Bliss: Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Get That Chicken Ready

1. If using chicken breasts, I like to pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This helps them cook more evenly and stay tender. You can skip this step if you’re using chicken thighs.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). This is optional, but it makes for faster cooking and easier serving.

Step 2: Sauce It Up!

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed!
2. Pour about half of the sauce over the chicken in a large bowl or resealable bag. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Reserve the remaining sauce for later.
3. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!

Step 3: Cooking Methods (Choose Your Adventure!)

You’ve got options here! I’m going to give you instructions for baking, pan-frying, and grilling. Pick your favorite!

Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Spread the marinated chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce.

Pan-Frying

1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding).
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned.
4. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce.

Grilling

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers (optional, but it makes for easier grilling).
4. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with the reserved BBQ sauce.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish the cooked Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired.
2. Serve hot over cooked rice, quinoa, or your favorite grain.
3. Add a side of steamed broccoli or other veggies for a complete meal.

Troubleshooting Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken Every Time

The Dreaded Dry Chicken

Nobody wants dry chicken! The key is to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), but don’t go beyond that. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness also helps it cook more evenly and prevents some parts from drying out while others are still cooking.

Sticky Situation: Preventing Sticking

BBQ sauce has a tendency to stick, whether you’re baking, pan-frying, or grilling. Parchment paper is your best friend when baking. For pan-frying, use a non-stick skillet and make sure it’s properly heated before adding the chicken. On the grill, lightly oil the grates before adding the chicken, or use skewers to keep the chicken elevated.

Sauce Too Thick?

Sometimes, Sweet Baby Ray’s can be a bit thick, especially after refrigerating. If your reserved sauce is too thick to brush easily, simply add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to thin it out.

Variations to Spice Things Up (or Down!)

Sweet Heat

Want to add a little kick? Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce. You can also add a tablespoon of sriracha for a more pronounced heat.

Honey Garlic

For a sweeter and more savory flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey and a minced clove of garlic to the BBQ sauce.

Asian-Inspired

Add a tablespoon of soy sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil to the BBQ sauce for an Asian-inspired twist. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch.

Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken: Meal Prep & Storage

Making it Ahead

You can definitely make this chicken ahead of time! Cook the chicken according to the instructions and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken in the oven, skillet, or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a little extra BBQ sauce to keep it moist.

Freezing for Later

This chicken also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What to Serve with Your Sweet Baby Ray’s Masterpiece

This chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Rice or quinoa
• Mashed potatoes
• Coleslaw
• Corn on the cob
• Steamed vegetables (broccoli, green beans, carrots)
• Mac and cheese
• Salad

If you’re in the mood for something different, consider trying Sticky Chicken Rice Bowls for a similar, yet unique, flavor profile. Or, for an even easier option, check out Creamy Crock Pot Ranch Chicken. Craving something with a little kick? You might enjoy Firecracker Chicken Bowls. And don’t forget the ever-popular Bbq Pulled Chicken Crockpot for a classic BBQ experience. For another crockpot option, try Crock Pot Bourbon Chicken! Finally, if you are a fan of wings, you might like Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

This Sweet Baby Ray’s Chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and so simple to make. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven (or skillet, or grill!), and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Happy cooking, my friend! You’ve totally got this!