For grilling, preheat your grill to high heat, aiming for around 450°F. Make sure to clean the grates beforehand to avoid sticking. If you choose to bake, preheat your oven to the same temperature. This will ensure that your chicken gets that perfect golden-brown exterior.

Drizzle both sides of the chicken breasts with extra virgin olive oil. This not only helps flavor the chicken but also aids in creating that delicious crust on the grill or in the oven. Season them generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This is where you really want to get that flavor in, so don’t hold back!

Now, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. For the best results, cover the grill and let it cook for about 5-6 minutes. You’re looking for that moment when the chicken easily releases from the grill grates—this indicates it’s ready to flip. If you’re using the oven, lay the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.

After flipping the chicken on the grill, let it cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Here’s where it gets fun: baste the chicken breasts with your chosen BBQ sauce, flip them over again, and let them cook for another 2 minutes on each side. This will give the chicken breasts that sticky, finger-licking glaze.

You’re almost there! The chicken is done when it’s firm to the touch and has reached an internal temperature of 160°F (it will rise to 165°F as it rests). If baking in the oven, brush the top with BBQ sauce after 15 minutes, then continue to bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred.

Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover with aluminum foil. Letting it rest for about 5 minutes allows those juices to settle, which is key to maintaining moisture.