If you’re planning a barbecue or just want to enjoy some grilled chicken, timing is everything. Undercooked chicken can lead to foodborne illness, while overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. So how many minutes do you need to grill chicken for perfect results? Here’s what you need to know:
Factors Affecting Grilling Time
The amount of time it takes to grill chicken can depend on several factors:
- The thickness and size of the chicken pieces
- The heat of the grill
- The type of grill you’re using (gas or charcoal)
- The starting temperature of the chicken
- The desired level of doneness (such as well-done or medium-rare)
These factors can affect cooking time, so it’s important to keep them in mind as you prepare to grill chicken.
Grilling Boneless Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular grilling option. Here’s a quick guide to cooking them:
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400 degrees Fahrenheit). This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. This is a great time to experiment with different spices and herbs.
Step 3: Place the Chicken on the Grill
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius). Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 4: Let the Chicken Rest
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the chicken moist.
Grilling Bone-In Chicken
Bone-in chicken pieces (such as thighs, drumsticks, and wings) require a slightly different grilling technique. Here’s how to grill them:
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350 degrees Fahrenheit). This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. You can also marinate the chicken beforehand for extra flavor.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill, bone-side down. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius).
Step 4: Let the Chicken Rest
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and keep the chicken moist.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken
Here are some additional tips to help you grill chicken to perfection:
- Brush the grill grates with oil before cooking to prevent sticking
- Don’t flip the chicken too often; this can cause it to cook unevenly
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it moist and juicy
- Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to add flavor
Conclusion
Grilling chicken is a delicious and healthy way to enjoy this versatile meat. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection every time. Happy grilling!
FAQs
- How long do you grill chicken for? The length of time you grill chicken for depends on several factors, such as the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, the heat of the grill, and the desired level of doneness. Boneless chicken breasts typically take 6-8 minutes per side, while bone-in chicken pieces can take 20-25 minutes.
- What temperature should chicken be cooked to? Chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) to ensure that it’s safe to eat.
- How do you prevent chicken from sticking to the grill? Brushing the grill grates with oil before cooking can help prevent chicken from sticking. You can also use non-stick cooking spray.
- What’s the best way to add flavor to grilled chicken? You can add flavor to grilled chicken by using marinades, rubs, or spices. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find what works best for you.
- How can you tell if grilled chicken is done? The best way to tell if grilled chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) when it’s fully cooked.
References
“Grilled chicken.” Food Network. Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.foodnetwork.com/topics/grilled-chicken.
“Grilled chicken.” Simply Recipes. Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/grilled_chicken/.
“Grilled chicken recipes.” Allrecipes. Accessed October 27, 2021. https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/17235/grilling/chicken/grilled/.