Grilling chicken breast is an enjoyable and delicious way to enjoy a summer meal. But with so many different recipes and cooking techniques available, it can be difficult to determine the ideal grilling temperature for chicken breast. There is a certain level of precision required when it comes to grilling to ensure that the chicken is cooked through, but not dried out, and this precision is particularly important when cooking chicken breast. Knowing the exact temperature for chicken breast on the grill can help ensure that your meal comes out perfectly cooked and full of flavor. In this blog post, we will explore what temperature should chicken breast be on the grill, how to maintain it, and how to know when your chicken is ready to be enjoyed.
Tips for Basting and SaucingFrom pesto to barbecue sauce, most sauces’ sugar content makes them susceptible to scorching, so save them for the very end of grilling. A good rule of thumb is to add a sauce with a high sugar content after the thermometer reaches 160 °F. It’s best to grill on an indirect heat zone after sautéing or basting to prevent burning.
Use Direct and Indirect HeatWhen grilling chicken, temperature control is crucial. You’ll need both direct and indirect heat zones on your grill for cuts that need to cook for longer periods of time, like a whole chicken or dark meats like drumsticks and thighs. By using the heat from the grill without being in direct contact with the fire or flames, which can burn chicken cuts that need more time to cook, indirect heat allows food to cook more slowly and evenly. For smaller chicken portions, such as chicken breasts, tenders, and wings that are less than a few inches thick, grilling only on direct heat zones is usually preferable.
Boneless, skinless thighs should be cooked for 7 to 8 minutes per side at medium-high heat (375°F). The best method is to cook the thighs over direct heat until they reach 165°F. Whole chicken should be cooked for 50 minutes at medium-high heat (375°F). The best method is to butterfly the chicken by removing the backbone. During cooking, place the chicken skin-side up over indirect heat and turn it once. To achieve the best results, place a cast iron skillet or brick covered in foil on top to flatten the chicken and promote even cooking.
Best technique: sear chicken skin side down over direct heat for three minutes or until golden brown. Thighs (Bone-In) Time: 30 to 40 minutesTemperature: medium-high (400 F) for direct heat, medium-low (300 F) for indirect heat Transfer to indirect heat, turn the food occasionally, and continue grilling until the internal temperature reaches 165 F. Flip and sear for an additional three minutes.
Avoid GuessworkThe best way to make sure chicken on the grill has reached the recommended minimum temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit is to use a digital meat thermometer. To obtain the most accurate temperature, insert thermometer into the thickest part of the cut while avoiding any bones. Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches a safe temperature, cover it, and let it rest for five minutes before slicing or serving to allow the juices to soak back into the meat.
FAQ
What temp do you grill chicken to?
The best way to make sure chicken on the grill has reached the recommended minimum temperature of 165 F is to use a digital meat thermometer.
How long do you cook chicken breast on the grill and what temperature?
Weber, a grill manufacturer, advises grilling chicken breasts for approximately 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, over medium heat between 425 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long should a chicken breast be on the grill?
Quick Instructions for Grilling Chicken Breasts: Grill chicken breasts for nine to ten minutes overall, turning once. Grilling time for chicken is about five minutes per side for chicken breasts.
