Barbecuing chicken is a beloved tradition, especially during summer cookouts. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to prepare juicy, flavorful meat. However, to achieve that perfectly cooked chicken, you must understand how long to barbecue chicken for each specific cut. Cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of chicken, the heat of your grill, and whether you’re using bone-in or boneless pieces. This guide will walk you through the factors that influence barbecue chicken cooking times and provide tips to help you master the art of grilling.
Why Is Proper Cooking Time Important?
Cooking chicken to the right temperature is critical not only for taste but also for food safety. Undercooked chicken can harbor harmful bacteria like salmonella, which can cause foodborne illnesses. To be safe, chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F. On the flip side, overcooking chicken can lead to dry, tough meat, which isn’t enjoyable to eat. Balancing these two extremes is the key to mastering barbecue chicken.
The best way to ensure your chicken is both safe and succulent is by understanding the cooking time required for each cut and using a meat thermometer. You can explore more tips for ensuring your chicken is properly cooked in this barbecue chicken recipes guide, which offers great insights into preparation techniques.
Factors That Affect Chicken Barbecue Time
Several factors influence how long it takes to barbecue chicken, and knowing these variables will help you better control the process:
- Cut of chicken: A whole chicken takes much longer to cook than chicken breasts, wings, or thighs. Bone-in pieces also take longer to cook than boneless ones.
- Grill temperature: The ideal temperature for grilling chicken is between 425°F and 450°F. Maintaining a steady heat is crucial for even cooking.
- Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in cuts retain heat differently than boneless cuts, which means they take longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
- Marinade: Marinating chicken adds moisture and flavor, but it can also affect cooking times. A heavily marinated piece of chicken may take longer to cook because of the added moisture.
Understanding these factors will allow you to adjust your cooking methods and times accordingly. For more details on how grilling chicken can vary based on different factors, check out this grilled vs BBQ chicken guide to further fine-tune your barbecuing technique.
How Long to Barbecue Chicken Based on the Cut
Knowing how long to cook each cut of chicken is essential. Here’s a breakdown of common chicken cuts and their approximate barbecue times.
1. Chicken Breasts
- Cooking time: 9–10 minutes
- Grill temperature: 425°F – 450°F
- Method: Grill over direct heat, turning halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on both sides.
Chicken breasts are lean, and they can dry out quickly if overcooked. To avoid this, you might want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before grilling. A simple marinade made with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs can help keep the chicken moist.
2. Chicken Thighs and Legs
- Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
- Grill temperature: 425°F – 450°F
- Method: Start by grilling over direct heat to create a sear, then move the chicken to indirect heat to finish cooking without burning the skin.
Chicken thighs and legs have more fat than breasts, making them less prone to drying out. Their fat content also adds flavor, making them a popular choice for grilling. They do, however, require more time to cook, especially if they are bone-in.
3. Chicken Wings
- Cooking time: 15–20 minutes
- Grill temperature: Medium-high heat (around 400°F)
- Method: Grill over direct heat, turning the wings frequently to ensure even cooking and to avoid burning the skin.
Wings are a favorite at cookouts because they’re easy to cook and fun to eat. However, they do require frequent turning to prevent the skin from burning before the meat is fully cooked. If you prefer saucy wings, apply your BBQ sauce toward the end of cooking to avoid charring.
4. Whole Chicken
- Cooking time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Grill temperature: 350°F – 375°F
- Method: Use indirect heat to cook the chicken slowly and evenly. To reduce cooking time, consider spatchcocking the chicken (removing the backbone and flattening it).
Whole chickens take longer to cook, but they are ideal for special occasions. The indirect grilling method is best for whole chickens, as it allows the meat to cook through without burning the exterior. Spatchcocking a chicken helps ensure even cooking and can reduce the cooking time significantly.
Essential Tips for Perfectly Grilled Chicken
To ensure your barbecue chicken turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips:
- Use a Meat Thermometer
- A meat thermometer is your best friend when grilling chicken. Always check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it reaches 165°F. This guarantees the chicken is cooked through without drying out.
- Rest the Chicken After Grilling
- Once you’ve removed the chicken from the grill, allow it to rest for about 5–10 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- Prevent Dryness with Marinades and Brines
- Using a marinade or brine before grilling can help lock in moisture, preventing your chicken from drying out. A marinade with an acidic base, like lemon juice or vinegar, will not only enhance flavor but also break down muscle fibers, making the chicken more tender.
- Control Grill Temperature
- Maintaining consistent heat is crucial. If the grill is too hot, the outside of the chicken will burn before the inside is fully cooked. If the temperature is too low, the chicken may dry out. Always preheat the grill and aim for a medium-high temperature for best results.
For a more detailed look into the nuances of grilling chicken and other meats, check out these barbecue chicken recipes and tips on how to elevate your grilling game.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Barbecuing Chicken
Here are a few common grilling mistakes to avoid to ensure your chicken comes out perfectly every time:
- Over-flipping the chicken: Turning the chicken too often can prevent it from getting a good sear. Flip only once during cooking to achieve the perfect balance between a charred exterior and a juicy interior.
- Cooking at the wrong temperature: Too high of a temperature can burn the chicken before it’s cooked through, while too low of a temperature can dry out the meat. Always preheat your grill for at least 10–15 minutes to achieve consistent heat.
- Skipping the marinade: Marinades add flavor and moisture to chicken. Don’t skip this step, especially for lean cuts like chicken breasts.
FAQs About Barbecuing Chicken
1. How long should I barbecue chicken?
The cooking time depends on the cut of chicken. Chicken breasts generally take 9–10 minutes, while whole chickens can take up to 1.5 hours to cook through using indirect heat.
2. How do I know when chicken is done?
The best way to tell if chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the meat.
3. Can I barbecue frozen chicken?
It’s not recommended to barbecue frozen chicken. Frozen chicken cooks unevenly, with the outside often burning before the inside is cooked through. Always thaw chicken thoroughly before grilling.
4. Do I need to marinate chicken before grilling?
While it’s not mandatory, marinating adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist during grilling. A basic marinade of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs will greatly enhance the taste and texture of the meat.
Conclusion
Barbecuing chicken is a simple yet rewarding process. Whether you’re grilling up chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or a whole bird, the key to success is understanding the factors that affect cooking time, maintaining the right temperature, and using a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is safe to eat. By following the guidelines in this article, you’ll be able to serve perfectly grilled chicken every time.