As the summer sun graces us with its warmth, it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious outdoor cooking. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that combines the best of Italian and American flavors: Tuscan Ranch BBQ Chicken. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, weekend cookouts, or any time you crave a hearty and flavorful meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tuscan Ranch BBQ Chicken recipe is a breeze to prepare and delivers a mouthwatering combination of tangy, creamy, and smoky flavors. The marinade, made with Italian dressing, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce, ensures the chicken breasts are juicy and packed with flavor. Plus, grilling adds that irresistible char and smoky taste that we all love.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup Italian dressing
- ¾ cup bottled ranch dressing
- ¾ cup BBQ sauce
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Directions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce until well combined. This flavorful mixture will infuse the chicken with a delightful blend of tangy, creamy, and smoky notes.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag, ensuring the chicken is well-coated with the marinade. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marination. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
3. Preheat the Grill
When you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the excess marinade.
4. Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for about 15-18 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cooking Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes plus marinating
- Calories: 440 kcal per serving
- Servings: 6 servings
Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken
- Don’t Skip the Marination: Marinating the chicken for several hours or overnight is key to infusing it with flavor and keeping it moist.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps to sear the outside, locking in the juices.
- Monitor the Heat: Grill the chicken over medium-high heat to ensure it cooks evenly without burning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (75°C) when the chicken is done.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tuscan Ranch BBQ Chicken with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or some creamy mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or your favorite summer beverage.
Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make Tuscan Ranch BBQ Chicken at your next cookout. It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!