First Step: Preheat and prepare
Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil your grill grates or baking tray to prevent chicken from sticking and ensure easy flipping.

Second Step: Season the chicken
Pat 4 chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to build layers of flavor.

Third Step: Oil and prep for cooking
Brush each chicken breast with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, which helps retain moisture during cooking and contributes a subtle richness without overpowering the bbq flavors.

Fourth Step: Cook the chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill or oven tray. Cook for about 20 minutes, turning once halfway through to achieve even cooking and attractive grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.

Fifth Step: Apply bbq sauce
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, generously brush both sides of the chicken with bbq sauce. This allows the sugars to caramelize into a beautiful glaze while preventing burning from early sauce application.

Final Step: Rest and serve
Remove chicken from heat and let it rest for at least 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm with your favorite sides. To adapt for vegan or gluten-free diets, substitute proteins and sauces accordingly, and adjust cooking times to accommodate different textures.