Easy Low Carb BBQ Chicken – Healthy and Tasty

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Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re going to make a mouth-watering low carb BBQ chicken that’s perfect for anyone following a keto or low carb diet.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, thanks to our homemade low carb BBQ sauce. Let’s dive into the world of tasty and healthy BBQ!

Ingredients for Low Carb BBQ Chicken

low carb bbq chicken

Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious low carb BBQ chicken.

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the stars of the show.
  • 1 cup of low carb BBQ sauce: Homemade or store-bought.
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil: For marinating the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Adds a nice depth of flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika: Gives the chicken a smoky taste.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste.

Make sure all your ingredients are ready before you begin. It makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!

How to Make Low Carb BBQ Sauce

bbq sauce

A great BBQ chicken needs a fantastic BBQ sauce. Here’s a simple recipe for a low carb BBQ sauce that you can make at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup of tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons of erythritol (or any low carb sweetener)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
  3. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Once thickened, let it cool and store it in an airtight container.

This BBQ sauce is perfect for our low carb chicken and can be used in other recipes too!

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating your chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor and keeping it juicy.

  1. Combine Olive Oil and Spices: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them well with the mixture.
  3. Marinate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.

Marinating helps the spices penetrate the chicken, making every bite flavorful.

Grilling the Chicken

a person is cooking meat on a grill

Now, it’s time to grill the chicken to perfection.

  1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill.
  3. Cook and Baste: Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the low carb BBQ sauce.
  4. Check Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).

Grilling gives the chicken a lovely charred flavor that pairs beautifully with the BBQ sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Your low carb BBQ chicken is now ready to be served! Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:

  • Grilled Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus are great low carb options.
  • Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low carb alternative to regular rice.
  • Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich BBQ flavors.

These sides keep the meal light, healthy, and balanced.

Tips for Perfect Low Carb BBQ Chicken

Want to ensure your BBQ chicken turns out perfect every time? Here are some tips:

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your chicken is cooked through without being overdone.
  • Let Chicken Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
  • Double the Sauce: Make extra BBQ sauce for dipping!

These tips will help you master the art of making delicious BBQ chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Just adjust the grilling time accordingly.

Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling? A: Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes.

These FAQs cover common questions to help you achieve the best results with your low carb BBQ chicken.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple, tasty, and healthy low carb BBQ chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Happy grilling!