Memorial Day BBQ Chicken

This easy grilled BBQ chicken recipe is the kind of no-fuss summer meal that disappears fast at every backyard cookout.

The simple marinade combines Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and bold seasonings to create juicy, flavorful chicken with a smoky-sweet finish that tastes like it came straight from a neighborhood barbecue joint.

Perfect for Memorial Day, Fourth of July gatherings, or casual weeknight grilling, this make-ahead chicken recipe keeps prep work minimal while delivering maximum flavor.

Let the chicken marinate overnight so the seasoning fully penetrates the meat, then throw it on the grill for a quick and satisfying dinner everyone will love.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Additional Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 25 mins
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

Directions

  1. In a large glass or ceramic mixing bowl, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder until fully blended.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated in the marinade.
  3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
  4. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  6. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  7. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.

Chefs Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken over charcoal instead of gas.
  • This recipe also works well with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
  • Serve alongside corn on the cob, potato salad, baked beans, or grilled vegetables for a complete barbecue spread.
  • If desired, brush additional barbecue sauce onto the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling.
  • Leftover chicken is excellent sliced for sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
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