- **Red onion** (thinly sliced) - 1/4 cup (optional, for garnish or marinade)
**Optional toppings for serving**:
- **Fresh parsley** (chopped) - for garnish
- **Crumbled feta cheese** - for a creamy contrast
- **Mixed greens** - for a light salad side
This recipe combines **grilled chicken**, **raspberry vinegar**, and **barbecue flavors** for a delicious, tangy, and smoky dish perfect for summer grilling or meal prep. Use these ingredients to create a **healthy, flavorful, and visually appealing meal** that’s sure to impress!
Steps
# How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts with Raspberry Vinegar BBQ Sauce
Grilled chicken breasts with raspberry vinegar BBQ sauce are a delicious and healthy meal option that combines sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Follow these detailed steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and guests.
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## **Ingredients**
- **For the Chicken:**
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- **For the Raspberry Vinegar BBQ Sauce:**
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 1/4 cup raspberry vinegar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Chicken**
1. **Season the Chicken:** Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it evenly. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. **Preheat the Grill:** Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F to 400°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
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### **2. Make the Raspberry Vinegar BBQ Sauce**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, add raspberries, raspberry vinegar, ketchup, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
2. **Simmer the Sauce:** Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and the sauce thickens.
3. **Strain the Sauce (Optional):** For a smoother sauce, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove raspberry seeds. Otherwise, leave it as is for a chunkier texture.
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### **3. Grill the Chicken**
1. **Grill the Chicken:** Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.
2. **Baste with Sauce:** During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, brush the raspberry vinegar BBQ sauce generously over the chicken. Flip and baste the other side for a caramelized, flavorful finish.
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### **4. Serve and Enjoy**
1. **Rest the Chicken:** Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken.
2. **Garnish and Serve:** Slice the grilled chicken breasts and drizzle with extra raspberry vinegar BBQ sauce. Garnish with fresh raspberries and chopped parsley for a vibrant presentation. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
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## **Tips for Success**
- **Marinate for Extra Flavor:** For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce for 1-2 hours before grilling.
- **Adjust Sweetness:** If the sauce is too tart, add more honey to balance the flavors.
- **Grill Alternatives:** If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
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This grilled chicken breasts with raspberry vinegar BBQ sauce recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors!