Chicken is one of the most popular proteins to grill and BBQ. When cooked properly, BBQ chicken is juicy, tender and full of smoky, charred flavor. However, improperly grilled chicken can end up dry and tasteless.
Knowing how to BBQ chicken right is essential for consistently delicious results. With the proper techniques and cooking methods, you can master grilled chicken and impress your family and friends. This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to bbq right chicken.
Selecting the Right Chicken Cuts
When BBQing chicken, choosing the right cuts is an important first step. Here are the best options:
Bone-in Chicken Pieces
Chicken legs, thighs, wings and drumsticks are ideal for the grill. The bones keep the meat moist and add flavor. The skin gets deliciously crispy. Opt for bone-in, skin-on pieces.
Boneless Chicken Breasts
Boneless breasts are versatile and cook quickly. Opt for an even thickness to ensure even cooking. Pound them to an even thickness if needed.
Chicken Tenders
Tenders offer lots of surface area for browning and picking up smoky flavor. Cut a few slashes partway through thicker pieces to prevent curling.
Whole Chicken
Grilling a whole cut up chicken makes an impressive, flavorful feast. Ensure it is butterflied for even cooking.
Chicken Kebabs
Alternating chicken chunks with vegetables makes for easy, delicious kebabs. Use boneless chicken thighs for the best results.
Proper Seasoning
Seasoning is key for phenomenal BBQ chicken flavor. Follow these tips:
- Season well with salt and pepper. Use 1/2 tsp each per pound.
- Spice it up with paprika, garlic powder, chili powder or cayenne.
- Use an all-purpose BBQ seasoning blend for convenience.
- Let seasoned meat rest 5-10 minutes before grilling.
- Lightly brush chicken with oil to help seasonings stick.
Maintaining Proper Temperature
The grill temperature for BBQ chicken should be:
- 350-400°F (177-205°C) for bone-in pieces and whole chicken – The lower heat allows the interior to cook through without burning the outside.
- 450-500°F (232-260°C) for boneless breasts and tenders – The higher heat sears the exterior before the boneless cuts dry out.
Use an instant read thermometer to monitor the grill temperature. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain heat. Have all preparation done ahead of time so you don’t need to keep opening the grill.
Achieving Perfectly Cooked Chicken
To prevent undercooked or dry chicken, follow these doneness guidelines:
- 165°F (74°C) minimum internal temperature – This safe temperature ensures any bacteria is killed. Check in the thickest part of the meat.
- 10-15 minutes per side for bone-in pieces – Turn only once for optimal browning.
- 6-8 minutes per side for boneless – Flip once halfway through for even cooking.
- 165-175°F (74-79°C) internal temp for boneless – Cook just until done to prevent drying out.
- 175-185°F (79-85°C) internal temp for bone-in – The bones allow you to cook to a higher temp for tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving for juicier meat. The temperature will rise 5-10 degrees during this time.
Useful Grilling Tips and Tricks
Follow these additional pointers for perfect BBQ chicken every time:
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning. Wet meat won’t brown as well.
- Arrange chicken on the grill skin-side or presentation-side down first for better coloring.
- Put thicker pieces toward the hotter area of the grill to prevent undercooking.
- Rotate chicken 180 degrees partway through cooking for even browning.
- Add woodchips such as hickory, cherry, apple or mesquite for extra smoke flavor.
- Clean the grill thoroughly before cooking for better browning. Oil the grates right before putting on the chicken.
- Avoid constant flipping. Turn only once during cooking unless there is excessive flaming.
- Add barbecue sauce only during the last 5-10 minutes or brush on after cooking to prevent burning.
Master Grilled Chicken Techniques
Beyond the basics, there are some additional next-level grilling methods to try for unforgettable BBQ chicken.
Beer Can Chicken
Cooking a whole bird upright over a can or rack of beer keeps the meat incredibly moist. The steam from the beer permeates the meat with flavor.
Smoking
A true smoke flavor comes from cooking low and slow in a smoker. Maintain 225-250°F (107-121°C) and smoke for 2-3 hours until done.
Grilling Over Charcoal
Charcoal grilling over lump charcoal or briquettes adds an unbeatable smoky, charred flavor. Hardwood charcoal is ideal.
Using a Rotisserie
Rotisserie cooking allows for even browning by constantly rotating the chicken. It self bastes with the rendering juices.
Flattening Spatchcock Style
Butterflying and flattening the chicken creates more surface area for browning and reduces grill time.
Marinating Overnight
Soaking chicken in a flavorful marinade overnight infuses it with extra juiciness and seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
You can take your perfectly grilled BBQ chicken to the next level with these serving ideas:
- Pair with traditional BBQ sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans and macaroni salad.
- Stuff into sandwiches and wraps with pickles and BBQ sauce.
- Chop and use in salads, tacos, nachos or pizza.
- Slice and use for meal prep lunches and dinners throughout the week.
- Pair with lighter sides like fresh greens, roasted vegetables or grilled pineapple.
- Make finger-food appetizers with boneless wings and tender strips.
- Shred and use for casseroles, soups, enchiladas, sandwiches or wraps.
However you choose to use it, follow these tips on how to bbq right chicken for the juiciest, smokiest and most flavorful grilled chicken every single time. With the proper techniques, you can master your backyard BBQ skills and become the grill master you aspire to be.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken
How long does it take to grill chicken?
- Boneless breasts: 6-8 minutes per side
- Bone-in pieces: 10-15 minutes per side
- Whole chicken: 1-1.5 hours
What is the minimum safe temperature for chicken?
165°F (74°C) for all chicken. Use an instant read thermometer to verify doneness.
Can you grill frozen chicken?
Yes, but it will take 50% longer. Thaw first for best results.
What is the best BBQ chicken cut?
Bone-in thighs and drumsticks are ideal. They stay juiciest during grilling. Breasts are prone to drying out.
How do you prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?
- Use a clean, well-oiled grill
- Avoid moving chicken too early
- Brush with oil or non-stick spray
- Use grilling baskets
What wood is best for smoking chicken?
Hickory, maple, apple, cherry, oak and pecan all pair deliciously with chicken. Avoid strong mesquite smoke.
Is beer can chicken safe?
Yes, as long as the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Discard any raw chicken juice before eating.
Can you BBQ chicken on a gas grill?
Yes. Gas grills reach high temperatures needed for browning. Add woodchips for extra smoke flavor.
How do you grill chicken so it’s not dry?
- Brine chicken first
- Don’t cook with very high direct heat
- Cook to 175°F (79°C) for bone-in
- Glaze or sauce the chicken
How do you keep chicken moist when grilling?
Pound to an even thickness, brine, don’t overcook, baste, grill with the bone in and tent before serving.
Conclusion
Grilling juicy, tender and delicious BBQ chicken is easy once you know the proper techniques. With the right heat, preparation, seasoning and doneness, you can become a true backyard grill master. Use this guide to learn how to bbq right chicken every time.
The keys are choosing ideal cuts, applying rubs generously, maintaining proper grill temperature and using a thermometer to avoid over or undercooking. Mastering specialty skills like beer can chicken, rotisserie grilling and smoking opens a whole new BBQ world.
Armed with these tips, tricks and answers to common questions, you can approach your next grilling session with total confidence. Serve up batches of flawlessly cooked BBQ chicken all summer long to delight your family and guests.