Name: Zesty White Barbecue Chicken: Juicy Flavor Boost for Grilling
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 280 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken pieces (Opt for bone-in for extra juiciness during grilling.); 1 cup Mayonnaise (Use light mayo for a healthier twist.); 1/2 cup Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar works well if white isn't available.); 2 tablespoons Mustard (Yellow mustard or Dijon for a spicier flavor.); 2 tablespoons Sugar (Adjust according to taste.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced for best flavor.); 1 tablespoon Horseradish (Omit for milder flavor.); 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.); to taste Salt & Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)

As the grill sizzles to life, I can’t help but feel an electric excitement in the air—it’s barbecue season! If you’re looking to give your usual grilled chicken a remarkable upgrade, you’ll love my Zesty White Barbecue Chicken. This dish brings a twist to your weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings with its creamy, zesty sauce that’s packed with character. The combination of mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic, and horseradish ensures that each bite of chicken is not just juicy but bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare—perfect for those busy evenings when you crave a homemade meal without the fuss. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and elevate your grilling game!

Why is White Barbecue Chicken a Game Changer?

Bold flavors transform your grilling experience—this recipe features a zesty sauce that beautifully enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness.
Versatile option for gatherings, whether you’re using wings, thighs, or breasts—adapt it to your preference!
Quick preparation means you can marinate the chicken in advance and have dinner ready in no time.
Creamy texture of the sauce adds a delightful twist that’ll impress your family and friends. If you’re looking for more crowd-pleasers, consider trying my Greek Chicken Stuffed Peppers or a comforting classic like Smothered Chicken.

White Barbecue Chicken Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up a mouthwatering dish!

For the Chicken

Chicken pieces – Opt for bone-in for extra juiciness during grilling.

For the White Barbecue Sauce

Mayonnaise – The base that brings creamy richness; feel free to use light mayo for a healthier twist.
Vinegar – Adds a tangy bite that balances the sauce; apple cider vinegar works well if you don’t have white.
Mustard – Use yellow mustard for a classic flavor or switch to Dijon for something a bit spicier.
Sugar – Balances the acidity; adjust according to taste for sweetness.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the savory aspects of the sauce.
Horseradish – Gives that extra zesty kick; if you’re not a fan, omit it for a milder flavor.

For Grilling

Olive oil – Keeps the chicken moist and helps achieve that perfect crispy skin; vegetable oil is a suitable substitute.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavor; remember to adjust to your palate.

Embrace the art of grilling with this sensational White Barbecue Chicken recipe that’s sure to awaken your taste buds and delight everyone at the table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Barbecue Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the White Barbecue Sauce
Begin by whisking together mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, sugar, garlic, and horseradish in a mixing bowl until smooth. This creamy sauce will provide a zesty kick to your White Barbecue Chicken. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then reserve one cup for serving later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a large zip-top bag, combine the chicken pieces with two cups of the prepared White Barbecue Sauce. Seal the bag securely, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Refrigerate for at least four hours, or overnight for best results, allowing the chicken to absorb the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill to high heat (around 450°F). As the grill heats up, prepare your chicken by removing it from the marinade, rinsing under cold water to reduce burning, and patting it dry with paper towels for even cooking.

Step 4: Season the Chicken
Brush the chicken pieces lightly with olive oil to keep them moist during grilling. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavors of your White Barbecue Chicken. This step ensures a crispy skin as it cooks on the grill.

Step 5: Start Grilling
Place the chicken skin-side down on the hot grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes until you see distinct grill marks forming. Flip the chicken and grill for another 2 minutes, letting the high heat sear the outside, locking in juicy flavors before moving on to the next step.

Step 6: Finish Cooking with Indirect Heat
Move the chicken to a cooler section of the grill or the upper rack, reducing the heat to medium. Cover the grill and cook for an additional 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 160-162°F, ensuring it’s cooked through while remaining juicy.

Step 7: Baste for Flavor
Every 5 minutes, generously brush the chicken with the reserved White Barbecue Sauce, allowing it to caramelize on the meat for a rich flavor. This step not only adds moisture but enhances the zesty profile of your grilled chicken, making each bite irresistible.

Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken. Serve the White Barbecue Chicken with extra sauce on the side, perfect for dipping and drizzling over your meal.

What to Serve with Zesty White Barbecue Chicken

As the aroma of grilled chicken fills the air, complement your meal with delightful sides that enhance the rich flavors of this creamy, zesty dish.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy side that balances the savory chicken with its cool, creamy dressing—perfect for summertime barbecues.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky corn enhances your backyard feast, bringing a vibrant sweetness that pairs beautifully with the zesty barbecue sauce.
Cornbread Muffins: These honey-kissed muffins provide a soft, fluffy contrast to the grilled chicken, absorbing the delightful sauces with every bite.
Potato Salad: A hearty, tangy potato salad adds a satisfying, rustic touch, making your plate feel complete and comforting alongside the grilled chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of seasonal veggies gives a touch of earthiness and healthy crunch, balancing out the meal with freshness—ideal for a nutritious twist.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing drink like cooled iced tea or tangy lemonade cuts through the richness of the chicken, leaving your palate cleansed and ready for more!
Peach Cobbler: Finish off your meal with a warm, fruity cobbler that offers sweet comfort, tying together the flavors of summer and adding a delightful endnote to your dining experience.

Elevate your backyard gatherings with these harmonious pairings that make every bite of your White Barbecue Chicken truly memorable!

Make Ahead Options

These Zesty White Barbecue Chicken pieces are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken in the delicious White Barbecue Sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for maximum flavor infusion. Simply combine the chicken and sauce in a sealed bag and refrigerate it until you’re ready to grill. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce itself in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it’s time to cook, rinse the chicken (to prevent burning from the sauce) and follow the grilling instructions as usual. This approach ensures you’ll enjoy flavorful, juicy chicken with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze White Barbecue Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover White Barbecue Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring that the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.

Freezer: Freeze grilled chicken pieces in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating: Thaw chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or until heated through, basting with extra White Barbecue Sauce for added moisture.

Marinated Chicken: You can marinate the chicken ahead of time (up to overnight) and store it in the fridge for enhanced flavor before grilling.

Expert Tips for White Barbecue Chicken

Marinate Well: Ensure the chicken is marinated for at least four hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion. This step makes all the difference!
Avoid Burning: Rinse the marinated chicken before grilling to prevent excess sauce from burning on the grill, keeping the flavor intact.
Use a Thermometer: Invest in a digital probe thermometer to accurately check the internal temperature, ensuring your chicken is perfectly juicy and safe to eat.
Indirect Heat Cooking: After searing, move the chicken to a cooler grill side to cook through gently, preventing a charred outside while keeping it juicy inside.
Baste Generously: Remember to brush your chicken with reserved White Barbecue Sauce every five minutes while grilling; it adds delicious caramelization and flavor.

White Barbecue Chicken Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe, adding your own creative touch to elevate the flavors!

Wings or Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with wings or thighs for a juicy texture that’s loved by many.
Spicy Mustard: Use a spicy mustard in the sauce for added heat—a perfect pairing with the creamy texture of mayonnaise.
Vegetarian Option: Try using grilled portobello mushrooms in place of chicken for a hearty alternative bursting with flavor.
Tropical Twist: Add canned pineapple chunks to your grilling for a sweet and tangy twist—wonderful for summer barbecues!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for a fragrant touch that elevates the flavor profile.
Grilled Veggies: Serve your chicken alongside a medley of grilled vegetables—bell pepper, zucchini, and corn complement beautifully.
Buffalo Sauce: For a fiery kick, toss the chicken pieces in buffalo sauce after grilling for an addictive and spicy finish.
Creamy Slaw Topping: Top your grilled chicken with a homemade coleslaw for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce.

If you love chicken dishes, you might also enjoy my Teriyaki Chicken Avocado recipe, which adds a sweet and savory twist to another favorite. Enjoy!

White Barbecue Chicken Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using bone-in chicken pieces, as they provide extra juiciness and flavor during grilling. Look for chicken that has a nice pink color and is free from dark spots or any unpleasant odors, which can indicate spoilage.

How long can I store leftover White Barbecue Chicken in the fridge?
You can store any leftover White Barbecue Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup, which can make the chicken soggy.

Can I freeze White Barbecue Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze grilled chicken pieces for up to 3 months. To do this, let the chicken cool completely and place it in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

What can I do if my grilled chicken is drying out?
If you find that your grilled chicken is coming out dry, it might be due to cooking it at too high a temperature or for too long. Always use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160-162°F, and avoid direct heat during the longer cooking process. More importantly, basting with the reserved White Barbecue Sauce every 5 minutes during grilling will add moisture and enhance flavor.

Is it safe for pets to consume White Barbecue Chicken?
Generally, it’s best to avoid giving your pets any chicken prepared with sauces, as ingredients like horseradish and certain spices can be harmful to them. If you’d like to share some plain, unseasoned chicken with your furry friends, that’s perfectly fine! Just ensure it has no bones, and always consult your veterinarian about their dietary needs.