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December 10, 2024
Barbecue chicken is a delicious and popular dish that is perfect for summer grilling. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to enjoy a tasty meal with your family, knowing how to properly cook barbecue chicken on the grill is essential. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky flavor, and tangy barbecue sauce is simply irresistible.
Grilling barbecue chicken can seem intimidating for beginners, but with a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly cooked chicken that is juicy and flavorful every time. From marinating the chicken to grilling it to perfection, this article will guide you through each step of the process.
One of the keys to delicious barbecue chicken is the marinade. A flavorful marinade not only helps to tenderize the chicken, it also adds depth of flavor to the meat. You can use a pre-made barbecue marinade or make your own using ingredients such as soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and honey. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Prepare the chicken
Before grilling the chicken, it is important to properly prepare it. Start by washing the chicken pieces under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat the chicken dry using paper towels.
Next, season the chicken with your desired marinade or dry rub. This will add flavor to the chicken and help to tenderize it. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using a combination of spices, herbs, oil, and acid (such as lemon juice or vinegar).
If you are using a marinade, place the chicken pieces in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
If you are using a dry rub, generously coat the chicken pieces with the mixture, making sure to cover all sides. Let the chicken sit with the dry rub for at least 15 minutes before grilling.
Before grilling, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy. Allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
While the chicken is coming to room temperature, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This will give you a nice sear on the chicken and help to lock in the juices.
Once the chicken is seasoned and the grill is hot, it is ready to be cooked. Make sure to oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Choose the right cut
When it comes to cooking barbecue chicken on the grill, choosing the right cut is essential. Different cuts of chicken have different cooking times and textures, so it’s important to select the one that suits your taste and preferences.
One of the most popular cuts for barbecue chicken is the bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as drumsticks, thighs, or wings. These cuts are flavorful and juicy, perfect for grilling. The bone helps to keep the meat moist and adds even more flavor, while the skin becomes crispy and adds a delicious texture.
If you prefer a leaner option, you can choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins. These cuts cook faster and have a milder flavor. They are a great choice if you are watching your calorie intake or prefer a lighter taste.
Regardless of the cut you choose, make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before grilling. This helps to ensure even cooking and allows the marinade or seasonings to adhere better to the meat.
Brine the chicken
Brining is a crucial step in ensuring your barbecue chicken stays moist and flavorful on the grill. It involves soaking the chicken in a mixture of salt, water, and, optionally, additional seasonings for a period of time before cooking. The brine helps to infuse the chicken with moisture and enhances its natural flavors.
To brine the chicken properly, follow these steps:
- Prepare the brine mixture by combining water and salt in a large container. You can also add other seasonings like black pepper, garlic powder, or herbs for additional flavor.
- Add the chicken pieces to the brine, making sure they are fully submerged. If necessary, place a heavy plate or a bowl on top to keep the chicken submerged.
- Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for best results. The longer the chicken brines, the juicier and more flavorful it will be.
- After the brining time is up, remove the chicken from the brine and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess salt or seasonings.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before proceeding with the grilling process.
By brining the chicken, you are taking a simple step to ensure that it remains juicy and tender while cooking on the grill. The brine adds flavor to the meat and helps it retain moisture, resulting in a delicious barbecue chicken that your family and friends will love.
Make the marinade
One of the keys to delicious barbecue chicken is a flavorful marinade. This step is important because it allows the chicken to soak up all the delicious flavors before it hits the grill. Here is a simple recipe for a tasty marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
In a bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well combined. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure the chicken is fully coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken and make it extra juicy and delicious!
Gather the ingredients
Before you start grilling your barbecue chicken, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: You can use any chicken parts you prefer, such as chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
- Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce or make your own using a combination of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.
- Olive oil: This will help prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Salt and pepper: Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Additional spices: You can add your preferred spices to enhance the flavor of the barbecue chicken. Some popular options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder.
Note: Make sure to adjust the quantity of ingredients based on the number of servings you intend to make.
Mix the marinade
Marinades are an essential part of barbecue chicken as they add flavor and help to tenderize the meat. Here’s how to make a delicious marinade for your chicken:
Ingredients:
| • 1/2 cup soy sauce |
| • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar |
| • 2 tablespoons olive oil |
| • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce |
| • 1 tablespoon honey |
| • 3 cloves garlic, minced |
| • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika |
| • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper |
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
2. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it is evenly coated. If using a plastic bag, seal it tightly.
3. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and make it more tender.
4. When you’re ready to cook the chicken, remove it from the marinade and discard the excess liquid. You can now grill the chicken according to your preferred method, whether it’s on a gas grill, charcoal grill, or indoor grill pan.
5. Remember to preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the meat retain its juices and tenderness.
7. Serve the barbecue chicken hot and enjoy!
Marinate the chicken
Marinating the chicken is an essential step in preparing barbecue chicken on the grill. The marinade not only adds flavor to the meat but also helps to tenderize it. Follow these steps to marinate the chicken:
1. Choose your marinade
Select a marinade that complements the flavors you want in your barbecue chicken. Popular options include honey mustard, teriyaki, or a classic barbecue sauce. You can also make your own marinade using a combination of ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
2. Prepare the chicken
Clean the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Trim off any excess fat or skin. For best results, use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks, as they tend to retain more moisture and flavor during grilling.
3. Coat the chicken in the marinade
Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that it is fully coated. If using a zip-top bag, press out any excess air before sealing it. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Note: It’s important to marinate the chicken in the refrigerator to prevent any bacterial growth.
4. Turn and baste the chicken
For an evenly marinated chicken, flip and rotate it in the marinade every hour. If possible, baste it with the marinade using a brush or spoon to further enhance the flavors.
Tip: Reserved marinade that comes into contact with raw chicken should not be reused for basting or as a sauce, as it can contain harmful bacteria.
Once the chicken has marinated for the desired time, it is ready to be grilled to perfection. Remember to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken, and never use it for serving or as a sauce. Enjoy your deliciously marinated barbecue chicken hot off the grill!
Q&A
What is the best way to cook barbecue chicken on the grill?
The best way to cook barbecue chicken on the grill is to start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of your favorite barbecue sauce, oil, and seasonings. Then, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Baste the chicken with additional barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
How long does it take to cook barbecue chicken on the grill?
The cooking time for barbecue chicken on the grill can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Generally, it takes about 6-7 minutes per side to cook chicken breasts, and around 12-15 minutes per side for chicken thighs and drumsticks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
What temperature should the grill be for barbecue chicken?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F, for cooking barbecue chicken. This temperature range allows the chicken to cook evenly and develop a nice char on the outside while ensuring it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. If the grill is too hot, the outside of the chicken may burn before the inside is fully cooked.
Can I use boneless chicken for barbecue chicken on the grill?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken is a great option for barbecue chicken on the grill. Chicken breasts, in particular, work well because they cook relatively quickly and are easy to handle on the grill. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken tends to cook faster than bone-in chicken. It’s also important to monitor the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
What are some tips for getting the perfect barbecue flavor when cooking chicken on the grill?
To get the perfect barbecue flavor when cooking chicken on the grill, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, marinating the chicken in a mixture of barbecue sauce, oil, and seasonings before grilling will help infuse the meat with flavor. Additionally, basting the chicken with extra barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking will add a delicious glaze and enhance the smoky flavor. Finally, letting the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before serving will help the juices redistribute and make the chicken more tender and flavorful.
What ingredients do I need to cook barbecue chicken on the grill?
To cook barbecue chicken on the grill, you will need the following ingredients: chicken pieces (legs, wings, breasts, or thighs), barbecue sauce, olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings or spices you prefer.
Can I use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken pieces?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of chicken pieces to cook barbecue chicken on the grill. However, keep in mind that boneless breasts may cook quicker than bone-in pieces, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.