This Italian BBQ Chicken recipe is one of my favorite go-to dishes when I need something fast, flavorful, and family-approved. With just three simple ingredients and minimal prep, I can have a juicy, flavorful chicken dinner that tastes like it’s been marinating all day. It’s the perfect combination of tangy, sweet, and savory.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how effortless this recipe is. There’s no chopping, marinating, or standing over the stove. Everything goes straight into the oven or slow cooker, and the result is always mouthwateringly good. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this Italian BBQ Chicken is a winner. Plus, cleanup is minimal—just one pan and done.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
1 cup Italian dressing
1 cup barbecue sauce
Directions
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, I combine the Italian dressing and barbecue sauce until well blended.
I place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top.
I bake the chicken uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a thicker sauce, I spoon some of the juices over the chicken halfway through baking.
Once done, I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.
Slow Cooker Option: I add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 30 to 40 minutes to cook in the oven. If I’m using a slow cooker, I set aside 2 to 6 hours, depending on the heat setting.
Variations
Spicy Kick: I add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.
Cheesy Finish: During the last 5 minutes of baking, I sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top.
Thigh Option: I swap out chicken breasts for boneless thighs for a juicier texture.
Grill It: I marinate the chicken in the mixture for a few hours, then grill it for a smoky flavor.
Honey Sweetness: I add 1–2 tablespoons of honey to make the sauce a little sweeter and more caramelized.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I use the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. If I want to freeze it, I let it cool completely and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
I always check with a meat thermometer. When the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), it’s safe and ready to eat.
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, I can use bone-in chicken, but I usually increase the cooking time by 10 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
I like to use a classic smoky or honey-style BBQ sauce, but I’ve also tried it with spicy and mesquite varieties—they all work well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. I mix the sauce and coat the chicken, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. It makes dinner prep even faster.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, but I always double-check the labels on the Italian dressing and BBQ sauce to make sure they don’t contain gluten.
Conclusion
This Italian BBQ Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can deliver big flavor. It’s quick, versatile, and perfect for busy weeknights or easy weekend meals. Whether I bake it, slow cook it, or grill it, I know I’ll end up with a satisfying dish that keeps everyone asking for seconds.
A quick and flavorful Italian BBQ Chicken made with just three ingredients—perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts baked or slow-cooked in a savory blend of Italian dressing and barbecue sauce.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
1 cup Italian dressing
1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the Italian dressing and barbecue sauce until well blended.
Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top.
Bake the chicken uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a thicker sauce, spoon some of the juices over the chicken halfway through baking.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Slow Cooker Option: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Notes
Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan cheese on top in the last 5 minutes of baking.
Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
Grill the chicken after marinating for smoky flavor.
Add 1–2 tablespoons of honey for a sweeter, caramelized sauce.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
