If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy way to cook chicken breast, grilling is a great option. But how long should you cook chicken breast on the grill? The answer ultimately depends on the thickness of your chicken breast and the temperature of your grill. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the perfect timings for cooking chicken breast on the grill, and we’ll offer some tips and tricks to help you cook the perfect chicken every time.
Understanding the Thickness of Chicken Breast
The thickness of your chicken breast is the key factor in determining how long you should cook it on the grill. The thicker the chicken breast, the longer it will take to cook. Generally speaking, a regular chicken breast is around 1 inch thick, while a thin chicken breast is closer to 1/2 inch thick.
- Regular chicken breast: Cook for 8-10 minutes over medium-high heat, flipping once.
- Thin chicken breast: Cook for 6-8 minutes over medium-high heat, flipping once.
However, it’s important to note that not all chicken breasts are the same. Some chicken breasts are thicker than others, and you may need to adjust your cooking times accordingly.
Using a Meat Thermometer
One of the easiest and most reliable ways to ensure that your chicken breast is cooked to perfection is to use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer will allow you to check the internal temperature of your chicken breast, which should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in order to be safe to eat.
Here are some general guidelines for using a meat thermometer to cook chicken breast on the grill:
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast: Make sure that the thermometer is not touching any bone or gristle, as this will give you an inaccurate reading.
- Wait for the thermometer to read the temperature: This can take a few seconds, so be patient and don’t remove the thermometer too quickly.
- Check the temperature again in a different place: If you’re not satisfied with your first reading, try inserting the thermometer into a different part of the chicken breast to get a more accurate reading.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Grilled Chicken Breast
In addition to understanding the thickness of your chicken breast and using a meat thermometer, there are several other tips and tricks that can help you cook the perfect chicken breast on the grill:
- Preheat your grill: Make sure that your grill is nice and hot before you start cooking your chicken breast. This will help to sear the chicken and lock in the juices.
- Use a marinade: Marinading your chicken breast in a flavorful mix of herbs, spices, and oil can help to tenderize the meat and add extra flavor.
- Don’t overcook your chicken: Overcooking your chicken breast can lead to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that your chicken is cooked to perfection.
- Let your chicken rest: After you’ve finished grilling your chicken breast, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.
Cooking Chicken Breast on Different Types of Grills
The perfect timings for cooking chicken breast on the grill can vary depending on the type of grill that you’re using. Here are some tips for cooking chicken breast on different types of grills:
Gas Grill
Gas grills are popular for their convenience and ease of use. To cook chicken breast on a gas grill:
- Preheat your grill: Turn all of the burners on high and close the lid for 10-15 minutes to preheat your grill.
- Oil your grill grates: Use a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to oil your grill grates and prevent sticking.
- Grill your chicken breast: Place your chicken breast on the grill and cook for the appropriate amount of time, flipping once. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that your chicken breast is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Charcoal Grill
Charcoal grills are known for their smoky flavor and intense heat. To cook chicken breast on a charcoal grill:
- Prepare your charcoal: Build a charcoal fire in your grill and let it burn until the coals are covered in white ash.
- Oil your grill grates: Use a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to oil your grill grates and prevent sticking.
- Grill your chicken breast: Place your chicken breast on the grill and cook for the appropriate amount of time, flipping once. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that your chicken breast is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Indoor Grill
An indoor grill can be a great option for cooking chicken breast when the weather is not suitable for outdoor grilling. To cook chicken breast on an indoor grill:
- Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Grill your chicken breast: Place your chicken breast on the grill and cook for the appropriate amount of time, flipping once. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that your chicken breast is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken breast on the grill can be a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this versatile protein. By understanding the thickness of your chicken breast and using a meat thermometer, you can cook the perfect chicken breast every time. Additionally, using marinades and following tips and tricks for grill success can further enhance your culinary results. By following these guidelines, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with perfectly grilled chicken!
Most Common Questions and Answers
- Q: How long do you grill chicken breast on each side?
- A: Generally speaking, you should grill chicken breast for 8-10 minutes on one side, then flip it and grill for another 8-10 minutes on the other side.
- Q: Is it safe to eat chicken breast that is slightly pink?
- A: No. Chicken breast should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit in order to be safe to eat.
- Q: How do I know when my chicken breast is done?
- A: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken breast. It should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in order to be safe to eat.
- Q: What temperature should I grill chicken breast?
- A: The temperature of your grill should be at least 350 degrees Fahrenheit in order to properly cook chicken breast.
- Q: How do I keep my chicken breast from sticking to the grill?
- A: Use a pair of tongs and a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to oil your grill grates and prevent sticking.
References
- “Grilled Chicken Breasts,” Allrecipes, accessed August 24th, 2021, https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/8887/grilled-chicken-breasts/
- “Grilled Chicken Breast,” Bon Appétit, accessed August 24th, 2021, https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/grilled-chicken-breast
- “Tips for Grilling a Perfect Chicken Breast,” The Spruce Eats, accessed August 24th, 2021, https://www.thespruceeats.com/grilled-chicken-breast-tips-336253