Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken with Black Eyed Peas

There’s something comforting about the sweet, smoky aroma of barbecue chicken sizzling in the pan or on the grill. It brings to mind family cookouts, warm summer evenings, and hearty meals shared around the table. This Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken with Black Eyed Peas recipe combines all those nostalgic flavors into one wholesome dish — a blend of tender chicken, rich barbecue sauce, and the earthy taste of black eyed peas. Inspired by classic Southern flavors, this recipe captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food with a lighter, wholesome twist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard dinner, craving something cozy for a weeknight meal, or preparing a protein-packed dish for your family, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

The black eyed peas bring a satisfying texture and mild flavor that complement the smoky chicken beautifully, while a touch of sweetness balances everything out. It’s a heartwarming recipe that feels both familiar and fresh — perfect for those who love soulful Southern cooking made simple and satisfying.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon molasses (optional for depth)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Black Eyed Peas:

• 2 cups cooked black eyed peas (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley
• A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice

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Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry with a paper towel to help it brown better. In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

2. Make the BBQ Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the tomato sauce, honey (or brown sugar), apple cider vinegar, molasses (if using), and all the spices for the BBQ sauce. Stir to combine, scraping up any flavorful bits from the pan.

Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes rich and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

3. Combine the Chicken with the Sauce

Return the seared chicken to the pan, coating each piece generously in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let the chicken simmer gently for about 10–15 minutes, or until fully cooked and tender. The sauce will thicken further and cling beautifully to the chicken.

4. Cook the Black Eyed Peas

While the chicken simmers, prepare the black eyed peas. In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Stir in the cooked black eyed peas along with paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let everything cook together for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. For a little extra depth, you can add a few tablespoons of the BBQ sauce from the chicken pan into the peas.

5. Serve and Garnish

Serve the BBQ chicken on a bed of black eyed peas, spooning extra sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a touch of freshness. If you like a bit of tang, add a light squeeze of lemon or lime juice before serving.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

35 minutes

Total Time

50 minutes

Yield

4 servings

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Notes

• For a smoky flavor boost: You can use a touch of liquid smoke or add a bit more smoked paprika to the sauce.
• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the BBQ sauce.
• Use leftovers wisely: Shred leftover BBQ chicken and use it in sandwiches, tacos, or wraps the next day.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or roasted sweet potatoes for a delicious plant-based version.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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The Soul of the Dish: Why It Works

What makes this dish truly special is its perfect balance of flavors — the sweet, smoky, and tangy BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the creamy, mild black eyed peas. The combination reflects classic Southern comfort food but in a lighter, everyday-friendly form.

Black eyed peas are a traditional staple across the South, symbolizing luck and prosperity — especially during New Year’s celebrations. Pairing them with barbecue chicken not only creates a hearty, protein-packed meal but also brings a nostalgic flavor that feels familiar and deeply satisfying. The sweetness from the honey, the smokiness from the paprika, and the tang from the vinegar create a harmony that keeps you coming back for more.

This recipe brings together the essence of comfort and tradition while staying simple enough for busy weeknights. It’s easy, nourishing, and downright delicious.

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Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Every Time

1. Don’t rush the sear. Getting that golden crust on your chicken adds rich flavor and texture.
2. Simmer low and slow. Once the sauce and chicken come together, let them cook gently so the flavors meld beautifully.
3. Taste your sauce before finishing. Everyone’s preference for sweetness and tang varies — adjust to suit your liking.
4. Use good quality tomato sauce. It forms the base of your BBQ flavor, so pick one without added sugar or preservatives.
5. Rest before slicing. Let the chicken sit for a few minutes before serving so it stays juicy and tender.

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Variations to Try

• Sweet & Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the black eyed peas and a little chili powder to the BBQ sauce.
• Grilled Chicken Option: Instead of cooking in the pan, grill the seasoned chicken and brush it with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes.
• Sheet Pan Style: Bake everything together in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes. This makes cleanup even easier.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add a cup of corn and some black beans to the peas for a Southwestern-inspired variation.
• Southern Comfort Bowl: Serve the BBQ chicken and black eyed peas over creamy mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty bowl meal.

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Health Benefits of Black Eyed Peas

Black eyed peas are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. They’re rich in fiber, plant-based protein, iron, and folate, making them excellent for supporting heart health, digestion, and energy. Because they’re naturally low in fat and cholesterol-free, they fit perfectly into balanced diets.

Combining them with lean chicken provides a double dose of protein while keeping the meal satisfying without feeling heavy. The addition of bell peppers and onions adds vitamins and antioxidants, giving the dish both flavor and health appeal.

This balance of flavor and nourishment makes Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken with Black Eyed Peas a smart choice for families looking to enjoy a comfort meal that’s also wholesome.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: The BBQ sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it and coat the freshly cooked chicken.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked BBQ chicken for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before sealing it in freezer-safe containers.
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Divide into individual meal containers with black eyed peas and your favorite side — perfect for lunches throughout the week.

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Suggested Side Dishes

To turn this dish into a complete meal, pair it with sides that complement the smoky-sweet flavors:

• Southern-Style Collard Greens – Adds an earthy contrast that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Garlic Butter Cornbread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of BBQ sauce.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Their natural sweetness echoes the flavors in the dish.
• Simple Green Salad – A light, crisp side to freshen up your plate.
• Steamed Rice or Quinoa – A great base for serving, especially if you want to stretch the meal further.

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Serving Ideas

You can serve this dish family-style in a large skillet, letting everyone spoon out portions of chicken and peas. It’s also wonderful as a BBQ bowl, layering rice, peas, and chicken with a drizzle of extra sauce and a sprinkle of herbs.

For gatherings, slice the chicken and serve it buffet-style with warm rolls, coleslaw, and extra sauce on the side. This flexible recipe adapts easily — from cozy family dinners to casual cookouts.

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Bringing Southern Comfort to Your Table

At its heart, this Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken with Black Eyed Peas recipe is about connection — to tradition, to comfort, and to the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Every bite captures the warmth of Southern kitchens and the spirit of homemade barbecue, without the need for a grill or complicated ingredients.

Whether you’re new to cooking with black eyed peas or already love them for their hearty taste, this recipe will win you over with its depth of flavor and simplicity. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for Sunday dinner.

So, fire up your skillet, stir that smoky sauce, and bring a little Southern charm into your kitchen tonight.

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FAQs

1. Can I use canned black eyed peas for this recipe?

Yes, canned black eyed peas work perfectly. Just drain and rinse them before cooking to remove excess sodium and starch. They’ll blend beautifully with the seasonings and sauce.

2. What type of chicken works best?

Both boneless chicken breasts and thighs work great. Breasts are leaner, while thighs stay juicier and absorb more of the smoky BBQ flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the BBQ sauce and even cook the chicken a day ahead. When ready to serve, reheat gently and prepare the black eyed peas fresh for best texture.

4. How can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or roasted sweet potatoes. Use a vegan BBQ sauce (no honey) and olive oil for cooking. The flavor remains smoky and satisfying.

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This Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken with Black Eyed Peas is a dish that brings together the comfort of the South and the simplicity of modern cooking. It’s flavorful, filling, and deeply satisfying — perfect for any day you want to bring a little warmth and tradition to your table.

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