Are you planning to grill boneless skinless chicken breasts but unsure about how long to cook them? Look no further, as we’ve got you covered with some quick tips and techniques to ensure juicy and flavorful chicken every time.
Grilling is a fantastic way to cook chicken breasts, as it imparts a smoky flavor and crispy texture that’s hard to resist. But overcooking can dry out the meat, leaving it tough and tasteless. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of grilling chicken breasts to perfection.
How Long to Grill Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts?
Grilling time depends on several factors, such as the thickness of the chicken breasts, grill temperature, and desired doneness. A general rule of thumb is to grill boneless skinless chicken breasts for 9 to 10 minutes in total, flipping halfway through. That means cooking each side for around 5 minutes on medium-high heat (400˚F).
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit when inserted into the thickest part of the meat. If the chicken is not yet cooked through, continue grilling until it reaches the desired temperature.
How to Grill Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts?
Before grilling, preheat the gas grill to medium-high heat or 350-400°F. Lightly grease the grill surface and add the chicken breasts. Close the lid and cook for 8 minutes or until the bottoms are browned with sear marks. Then, flip the chicken over, cover, and cook for an additional 7 to 10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
For charcoal grills, arrange the coals in a single layer and let them burn for 20-30 minutes until they turn grayish-white. Then, place the chicken breasts on the grill grates and cook as per the above instructions.
To prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill, avoid moving it frequently, and use a pair of tongs to flip it over. Also, resist the temptation to poke or prod the meat, as it can release the juices and dry out the chicken.
What’s the Best Temperature to Grill Chicken?
Grilling chicken at 350° to 450°F over direct or indirect medium heat is recommended. However, if you’re smoking the chicken, use indirect cooking over very low heat, 225° to 250°F, with the addition of smoldering wood chunks.
Is it Better to Grill Chicken Fast or Slow?
The slower you cook chicken, the better it turns out, as it allows the meat to cook evenly and retain moisture. However, you can sear the chicken breast quickly over medium-high heat before reducing the temperature to medium-low for the remaining cooking time.
How to Prevent Dry and Tough Chicken Breasts?
Chicken breasts tend to dry out quickly on the grill, leading to a tough and rubbery texture. To prevent this, use a simple brine made from 1/4 cup kosher salt dissolved in 4 cups of water to soak the chicken breasts for 30 minutes before grilling. This will help the meat absorb moisture, making it juicier and more tender.
In addition, avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can dry out the meat. Remove it from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and settle, resulting in juicier and flavorful chicken.
In Conclusion
Grilling boneless skinless chicken breasts is a breeze once you know the right techniques and temperatures. By following the tips outlined above, you can easily grill tender, juicy, and delicious chicken every time. So, fire up your grill, and get ready to enjoy some mouth-watering chicken breasts!