Are you ready for an easy, super frugal meal? This is simple to make, requires only three ingredients to make this BBQ breaded chicken. Two simple, cheap ingredients and chicken breasts (which I realize aren’t all that cheap!).
Watch this Recipe Cooked Step-by-Step
Simple BBQ Breaded Chicken
As I said, simple. Start with two shallow bowls, one with bread crumbs, one with your BBQ sauce of choice. This is my favorite BBQ sauce, but you could also try Kraft BBQ sauce for a lower cost.
I cut my chicken into chunks to make them easier to work with and so they would cook faster. Pat your chicken dry or the BBQ sauce isn’t going to stick. Cover a baking sheet in tin foil and coat with non-stick spray. I prefer this Olive Oil non-stick spray.
Start with the BBQ sauce, drag your chicken through it to coat. Then coat in bread crumbs. Lay on your baking sheet. Repeat.
Bake at 400F for 15-20 or under cooked. The size of your chicken pieces will determine how long it takes to cook.
Despite how it looks here, they didn’t stick at all. And just lightly crisp around the edges. This breaded chicken was super tasty, and three of my kids love it!
Simple BBQ Breaded Chicken
This simple three ingredient breaded chicken meal is a perfect for budget friendly meal that your kids are going to love eating.
Ingredients
- 1 cup BBQ sauce of choice
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 4 chicken breasts, cut up
Instructions
- Cut chicken into chunks to make them easier to work with and so they would cook faster.
- Pat your chicken dry or the BBQ sauce isn't going to stick.
- Cover a baking sheet in tin foil and coat with non-stick spray.
- Start with the BBQ sauce, drag your chicken through it to coat.
- Then coat in bread crumbs.
- Lay on your baking sheet. Repeat.
- Bake at 400 for 15 - 20 minutes or until cooked through.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1 gramsAmount Per Serving: Unsaturated Fat: 0g
How to Elevate Your BBQ Breaded Chicken Recipe
BBQ breaded chicken is a crowd-pleasing favorite that blends crispy texture with sweet and smoky flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a summer cookout, there are countless ways to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some tasty ingredient add-ons, creative alternatives, and perfect sides to round out your meal.
Ingredient Add-Ons for Extra Flavor
- Crushed Red Pepper or Cayenne: Mix into your breading for a little extra kick.
- Grated Parmesan: Add to the breadcrumb mixture for a nutty, cheesy crust.
- Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smoky BBQ flavor with a deep, savory undertone.
- Fresh Herbs: Add chopped parsley, thyme, or chives to the breading or as a final garnish for freshness.
- Honey or Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle just before serving can enhance the sweet BBQ profile.
Ingredient Alternatives to Try
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Swap traditional breadcrumbs for panko to achieve a crunchier texture.
- Gluten-Free Breading: Use crushed cornflakes, almond flour, or certified gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-sensitive diets.
- BBQ Sauce Variations: Try spicy chipotle BBQ, Carolina mustard BBQ, or bourbon-infused sauces for different flavor profiles.
- Air Fryer Option: Use an air fryer instead of frying or baking for a crispy coating with less oil. (I love this Non Toxic Air Fryer with a glass viewing window)
- Vegan Twist: Use plant-based chicken alternatives and egg substitutes to create a fully vegan BBQ breaded option.
Ways to Dress It Up for Presentation
- Serve Over a Bed of Slaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and balances the rich BBQ flavor.
- Top with Pickled Onions or Jalapeños: Adds brightness and contrast that cuts through the sauce.
- Garnish with Fresh Cilantro or Scallions: Adds color and a pop of freshness.
- BBQ Drizzle Art: Use a squeeze bottle to zig-zag BBQ sauce over the plated chicken for a gourmet touch.
- Mini Sandwich Sliders: Place the chicken in small brioche buns with coleslaw for a fun, casual serving option.
Perfect Side Dishes to Serve With BBQ Breaded Chicken
- Cornbread or Corn Muffins: Sweet and fluffy, they complement the smokiness of the BBQ.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy, indulgent side that pairs perfectly with crispy chicken.
- Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onions add a smoky flavor that mirrors the BBQ theme.
- Baked Beans: A hearty and slightly sweet side that’s a classic BBQ favorite.
- Potato Salad or Pasta Salad: Cool, creamy sides that add texture contrast and are great for make-ahead prep.
By incorporating these enhancements and sides, you can take a basic BBQ breaded chicken recipe and transform it into a complete, flavor-packed meal.