Grilling chicken is a delicious and healthy way to prepare this versatile protein. Whether you prefer bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless, marinated or seasoned, there are a few key tips and techniques that will help you achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time. In this article, we’ll explore How Long To Grill Chicken and share some helpful tips and tricks for grilling chicken to perfection.
Choosing the Right Chicken
Before you start grilling, it’s important to choose the right type of chicken. Look for chicken that is fresh and has not been previously frozen. If possible, choose organic, free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture. When selecting your chicken, consider the cooking method you plan to use. For grilling, boneless chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks are all great options.
Preparing the Chicken
To ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and stays moist, it’s important to properly prepare it before grilling. Remove any excess fat and trim the chicken to a uniform thickness. If you’re using bone-in chicken, make sure to loosen the skin from the meat to allow the heat to penetrate more evenly.
Seasoning and Marinating
Seasoning and marinating your chicken before grilling is a great way to add flavor and moisture. Whether you prefer a simple salt and pepper seasoning or a more complex marinade, make sure to apply it evenly and let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps to tenderize it.
Preheating the Grill
Before grilling your chicken, make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help to ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets those beautiful grill marks. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it with the lid closed for 10-15 minutes. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and white before adding the chicken.
How Long to Grill Chicken
The cooking time for grilled chicken will depend on a variety of factors, including the thickness of the meat, the type of chicken, and the temperature of the grill. As a general rule, boneless chicken breasts and thighs will take 6-8 minutes per side, while bone-in chicken will take 10-12 minutes per side. However, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165┬░F (74┬░C). To use a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the meat without touching bone or the grill grates. If the temperature reads 165┬░F (74┬░C), your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken
Here are a few additional tips and tricks for grilling chicken to perfection:
- Oil the grill grates before adding the chicken to prevent sticking.
- Don’t move the chicken around too much while it’s cooking. This will help to create those beautiful grill marks and prevent the chicken from sticking.
- If you’re using a marinade, brush it on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent burning.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps to keep the meat moist and tender.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken is a simple and delicious way to prepare this versatile protein. By choosing the right chicken, properly preparing it, and following these tips and techniques, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken every time. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, these tips will help you take your chicken grilling skills to the next level
