Grilling bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill is a popular and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. Whether you’re a grilling novice or an experienced chef, knowing the right cooking time is essential to achieve juicy and tender chicken.
Generally, bone-in chicken breast takes about 20-25 minutes to cook on a gas grill. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breast and the temperature of the grill. It is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
Before grilling, it is recommended to marinate the chicken breast for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness. You can choose from a variety of marinades and seasonings, such as lemon and herb, garlic and rosemary, or a simple salt and pepper rub.
To grill bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken breast on the grill, skin-side down, and close the lid. Cook for about 10-12 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Remember to let the chicken breast rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute and the chicken to remain moist and tender. Serve with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Preparing the chicken breast
Before cooking bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill, it’s important to properly prepare the meat to ensure it cooks evenly and is flavorful. Follow these steps to prepare the chicken breast:
- Start by rinsing the chicken breast under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and ensures a crispy skin when cooked.
- Next, season the chicken breast. You can use a variety of seasonings and spices, depending on your preferences. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- If you have time, you can marinate the chicken breast in a mixture of your choice for added flavor. Simply place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- Before grilling, make sure to preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the grill is hot enough to cook the chicken properly.
By properly preparing the chicken breast before grilling, you’ll ensure it has great flavor and is cooked to perfection on the gas grill.
Preheating the gas grill
Before cooking bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill, it is important to preheat the grill. Preheating helps to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Here are the steps to preheat the gas grill:
- Make sure the gas tank is connected and turned on.
- Open the lid of the grill.
- Turn the gas burners to the highest heat setting.
- Close the lid and let the grill preheat for about 10-15 minutes.
- During this time, the temperature inside the grill will rise, and the grates will heat up.
Once the grill is preheated, it is ready for cooking bone-in chicken breast. The high heat will help to sear the chicken and lock in the juices, resulting in a delicious, juicy grilled chicken breast.
Cooking the chicken breast
Once you have preheated your gas grill and prepared the bone-in chicken breast according to your preferred marinade or seasoning, it’s time to begin cooking. Follow these steps to cook the chicken breast on a gas grill:
- Heat the gas grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C).
- Oil the grill grates or spray them with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the bone-in chicken breast on the grill, skin side down, positioned directly over the heat source.
- Cook the chicken breast for approximately 6 minutes per side.
- For added flavor, you can baste the chicken breast with your preferred sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken breast reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken breast from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Remember to practice proper food safety measures and always wash your hands and utensils after handling raw chicken. Enjoy your deliciously grilled bone-in chicken breast!
Checking the internal temperature
To ensure that the bone-in chicken breasts are fully cooked and safe to eat, it is important to check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, avoiding the bone. The chicken is considered cooked and safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If the temperature is lower than 165°F (74°C), continue grilling the chicken and check the temperature regularly until it reaches the desired level. It is important to keep the grill lid closed as much as possible during cooking to maintain a consistent temperature.
Properly checking the internal temperature of the bone-in chicken breasts is crucial to ensure that they are cooked thoroughly and safe from any harmful bacteria. Eating undercooked chicken can lead to foodborne illnesses, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Serving and enjoying
Once your bone-in chicken breast is cooked to perfection on the gas grill, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are a few tips to make the most out of your delicious meal.
1. Resting the chicken
Before cutting into the chicken breast, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat. Simply transfer the grilled chicken to a clean cutting board and cover it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Serving suggestions
There are many ways to serve bone-in chicken breast, depending on your preferences and the occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Classic BBQ style: | Brush the grilled chicken breast with your favorite BBQ sauce and serve it with grilled vegetables and corn on the cob for a classic summer feast. |
Healthy option: | Slice the chicken breast and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a refreshing and nutritious salad. |
Asian-inspired: | Marinate the chicken breast in a teriyaki sauce, grill it to perfection, and serve it over steamed rice with stir-fried vegetables for a flavorful Asian-inspired meal. |
Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique serving ideas!
Now that your bone-in chicken breast is cooked and served, it’s time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a weeknight dinner, grilled chicken breast is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite sides, gather your loved ones, and savor each delicious bite!
Q&A
How long should I cook bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill?
It is recommended to cook bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill for about 20-25 minutes. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What temperature should I set my gas grill to cook bone-in chicken breast?
Preheat your gas grill to medium heat, which is typically around 350°F (175°C). This will allow the chicken breast to cook evenly and avoid burning.
Do I need to marinate the bone-in chicken breast before grilling?
While marinating the chicken breast can add flavour, it is not necessary. You can simply season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings before grilling.
Should I grill bone-in chicken breast with the lid open or closed?
It is recommended to grill bone-in chicken breast with the lid closed. This helps to trap the heat and cook the chicken more evenly. However, you can open the lid occasionally to check for doneness or to add sauce or marinade.
Can I cook bone-in chicken breast on a charcoal grill instead of a gas grill?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breast can be cooked on a charcoal grill as well. Follow the same cooking instructions, but adjust the charcoal heat accordingly to maintain a medium heat level.
How long do you cook bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill?
It typically takes about 20-25 minutes to cook bone-in chicken breast on a gas grill. Make sure to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken breast for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).