Barbecue chicken breast is a delicious and quick meal to make on the grill. But how long does it actually take to cook chicken breasts on a BBQ? Here is a guide to grilling times for juicy, flavorful chicken breast.
Factors That Affect BBQ Chicken Breast Cooking Time
Several factors impact how long it takes to barbecue chicken breasts:
Thickness of the Chicken Breasts
- Thinner breasts will cook faster, while thicker pieces will require more time. Breasts that are 1-inch thick may need 10-12 minutes per side. 1 1/2 to 2-inch thick breasts may need 14-18 minutes per side.
Bone-In vs Boneless
- Boneless breasts will cook faster than bone-in. The bones act as insulation, slowing the cooking process. Boneless may need 8-12 minutes per side, while bone-in may need 15-20 minutes per side.
Grill Temperature
- Hotter grills will cook the chicken faster. Grill temperatures between 350-450°F are ideal. Lower temps around 300°F will significantly increase cook time.
Flip Frequency
- Flipping the breasts more often will help them cook faster and more evenly. Flip every 4-5 minutes.
Brining
- Soaking chicken in a saltwater brine before grilling helps it retain moisture, resulting in a quicker cook time.
Chicken Temperature
- Chicken straight from the fridge will take longer. Letting it sit out for 20-30 mins allows it to come closer to room temp before grilling.
How Long to BBQ Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
For boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1 inch thick:
- Medium: Flip every 4 minutes for 8-12 minutes per side, 16-24 minutes total
- Well-Done: Flip every 4-5 minutes for 10-14 minutes per side, 20-28 minutes total
For thicker boneless breasts, extend cook times up to 18 minutes per side. Check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part of a breast to ensure it’s cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
If the breasts are very thick, they may need to be butterflied first by slicing horizontally through the thicker half to create a more even thickness for more even cooking.
How Long to Grill Bone-In Chicken Breasts
For bone-in chicken breasts about 1 1/2 inches thick:
- Medium: Flip every 5 minutes for 14-18 minutes per side, 28-36 minutes total
- Well-Done: Flip every 5 minutes for 16-20 minutes per side, 32-40 minutes total
Monitor temperature using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching the bone, making sure to reach 165°F.
For safety, it is not recommended to partially cook bone-in chicken breasts. Cook fully until well-done.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked BBQ Chicken Breasts
- Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling before eating for juicier meat.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Judge doneness by temp, not color.
- Grill over direct high heat. Avoid hot spots.
- Brine chicken breasts in saltwater for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Lightly oil the grates and chicken before grilling.
- Flip frequently, every 4-5 minutes. Don’t move them too much.
- For char, cook over direct heat. For gentle cooking, use indirect heat.
- Bone-in and thicker breasts take longer. Adjust time accordingly.
- Let chicken sit at room temp for 20-30 mins before grilling for quicker cooking.
Common Questions about BBQ Chicken Breasts
How long does it take to grill chicken breast at 400 degrees?
At a grill temperature of 400°F, boneless, skinless chicken breasts about 1 inch thick will take 8-12 minutes per side, for a total of 16-24 minutes. Monitor the temperature and check for doneness before removing from the grill.
Can you grill frozen chicken breasts?
It’s best not to grill frozen chicken breasts. They will likely burn on the outside before the inside is fully cooked. Defrost breasts in the refrigerator completely before attempting to grill them.
What is the minimum temperature for grilling chicken?
The grill should maintain a minimum temperature of at least 325-350°F for proper grilling and searing of chicken breasts. Any lower may lead to uneven cooking and unsafe consumption. Higher heat between 400-450°F is ideal.
How do you keep chicken moist on the grill?
Brining, frequent flipping, avoiding overcooking, letting rest before cutting, and grilling over indirect heat will all help keep your grilled chicken breasts juicy and moist. Cooking too hot and fast can dry out the meat.
Can you grill chicken breast on a gas grill?
Yes, gas grills are perfect for cooking chicken breasts. Preheat on high for 15 minutes, clean and lightly oil the grates, and grill over direct high heat, flipping frequently, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow to rest before serving.
Conclusion
Grilling juicy barbecue chicken breasts takes some technique, but is worth the effort. Allow 15-20 minutes for boneless breasts and 25-40 minutes for bone-in depending on thickness. Monitor temperature, flip frequently, and avoid overcooking. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at grilling chicken in no time for amazing barbecue flavor.