Grilled Chicken Sauces
Are you a fan of grilled chicken but find yourself craving a different flavor than the standard bottle of barbecue sauce? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us have experienced that desire for something new and exciting when it comes to our favorite grilled dish. Whether it’s because you’ve grown tired of the same old taste or simply want to explore different flavors, the good news is that there are plenty of delicious alternatives to BBQ sauce that can take your grilled chicken to the next level.
When you’re in the mood for grilled chicken, it’s easy to default to the typical barbecue sauce or ranch dressing that’s in the fridge or pantry. However, if you’re looking to try something new and elevate your chicken game, there are endless possibilities for sauces and seasonings that can give your chicken a burst of flavor and satisfy your taste buds in a new way.
Grilled Chicken Marinades
If you’re looking for a new twist to grilled chicken, then you might want to consider using a marinade the next time you cook. Marinades can be a quick and easy way to infuse your chicken with flavor and create a tender and juicy texture. Best of all, they can be applied in as little as 20 minutes before you cook your chicken, making them a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute grilling sessions.
To get started with marinades, you can begin by browsing the condiments aisle at your local grocery store to see what’s available. You’ll likely find a wide variety of pre-made marinades that range from sweet and tangy to spicy and savory. Some popular options include teriyaki, soy sauce, honey mustard, and Italian dressing, just to name a few.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also make your own marinade at home using ingredients you already have in your fridge or pantry. For example, you might try mixing together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano for a simple yet flavorful marinade. Or you could combine soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic for a sweet and savory option.
Grilled Chicken Marinade Ideas:
- Italian dressing
- Lemon, salt, pepper & oregano
- Teriyaki sauce
- Stubb’s Citrus & Onion Marinade
- Lawry’s Caribbean Jerk
- Sesame Ginger
BBQ Chicken Dry Rubs
For those who are following a keto diet or trying to cut back on sugar, using a dry rub for your grilled chicken can be a great alternative to traditional barbecue sauce. Dry rubs are made by mixing a variety of spices and seasonings and rubbing them onto the surface of the chicken before grilling. This creates a flavorful crust on the outside of the chicken and adds depth and complexity to the taste.
Many supermarkets carry pre-made chicken rubs that you can use for convenience. These rubs come in a variety of flavors, from smoky and spicy to sweet and savory. You can experiment with different flavors to find the perfect combination that suits your taste buds.
If you prefer to make your own rub, it’s easy to do so with the spices and seasonings you already have in your pantry. For example, you could mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and chili powder for a smoky and spicy rub. Or you could combine rosemary, thyme, oregano, and lemon zest for a bright and fresh flavor.
One of the benefits of using a dry rub is that you can control exactly what goes on your chicken. You can adjust the spice level, saltiness, and sweetness to your liking, and you can avoid the added sugars and preservatives that can be found in some barbecue sauces.
Dry Rub Ideas
- Stubb’s Chicken Rub
- Montreal Chicken Seasoning
- Salt, Pepper & Garlic Powder
- Maple BBQ Rub
- Rosemary, garlic, salt & pepper
- Chili flakes, salt, and garlic powder
Conclusion
When it comes to finding alternatives to BBQ sauce for grilled chicken, the possibilities are truly endless. Fortunately, many of the ingredients you can use to make your own marinades and dry rubs are likely already sitting in your kitchen cabinet, waiting to be discovered.
If you’re looking to avoid the store-bought marinades and dry rubs that often contain added sugars and preservatives, making your own at home is a great option. By taking a closer look at the ingredients in your favorite store-bought options, you can likely recreate a similar flavor profile using fresh, whole ingredients. This not only ensures that you’re getting a healthier product, but it can also save you money in the long run.
In addition to exploring different flavor options, it’s also important to consider the temperature of your grilled chicken. Overcooked or undercooked chicken can result in a less-than-ideal texture and flavor. To ensure that your grilled chicken is cooked to perfection, be sure to check out our guide on grilled chicken temperature, which provides helpful tips and guidelines for cooking chicken to the perfect internal temperature.