I. Introduction
Grilling chicken can be challenging, especially for those who haven’t done it before. Achieving the perfect cook can be challenging and isn’t always easy. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you understand how long to grill chicken for and how to determine when it is cooked.
II. Step-by-step guide on how to grill chicken
Before you start, gather the necessary cooking tools, which include a grill, tongs, a spatula, and a meat thermometer.
Begin by preheating the grill to medium-high heat and making sure it is clean. After preparing the grill, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Once the chicken is seasoned, place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for six to eight minutes on each side. For grilled chicken thighs and wings, grill for roughly six to seven minutes per side.
The key to perfectly grilled chicken is ensuring it reaches the right internal temperature.
III. Temperature and timer method
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, ensure that it’s internal temperature reaches 165℉ (74℃). One of the simplest methods for determining the internal temperature is using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer in the thickest part of the chicken to get an accurate reading.
When you cook chicken, it’s essential that it reaches the right temperature to maintain food safety standards. With this method, you can be sure your chicken is cooked perfectly every time.
IV. Cut testing technique
An alternative method for determining if your chicken is perfectly cooked involves testing the firmness of the chicken. Gently press your finger against the thickest part of the chicken, and if it feels firm, the chicken is cooked through, without any pink, or raw-looking sections. When testing the chicken, ensure the juices run clear, as any pink or blood-colored juice indicates the chicken is not cooked.
V. How to season chicken
A well-seasoned chicken is essential to achieve the desired taste and flavor. You can marinate your chicken for an hour or overnight, depending on how much time you have before grilling. Alternatively, you can brine the chicken for up to 24 hours, ensuring the chicken is packed with flavor before it goes on the grill.
It’s essential to adjust the cook time when you add seasoning to your chicken. Spices can burn quickly and stick to the grill, causing the chicken to cook unevenly.
VI. Pre-grilling tips
Pre-grilling tips involve the preparation of the chicken. Begin by ensuring the chicken is thawed, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for ten minutes before grilling. You can marinate your chicken before grilling, increasing the chicken’s flavor while also helping it retain moisture.
The thickness of the chicken also plays a role in the cooking time. Thinner cuts of chicken cook faster than thicker cuts. Therefore, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
VII. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know when chicken is done?
A: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine when chicken is done. Otherwise, cut the chicken to check if the juices run clear and that it doesn’t look pink or raw.
Q: Should I put oil on the grill before cooking?
A: Yes. Using cooking oil on the grill grates can help prevent the chicken from sticking and ensures it cooks evenly.
VIII. Conclusion
Grilling chicken can be a daunting task, but using this guide, you can be sure to achieve perfect grilled chicken every time. Proper preparation of the tools, seasoning, and cuts of chicken are essential to achieve the desired texture and flavor. Furthermore, it’s essential to ensure your chicken reaches the right internal temperature for food safety, which reduces the risk of food poisoning.
