Best Way To Cook Chicken Breast On The Bbq
Barbecuing chicken breasts is a quintessential American summer pastime, and for good reason. There's nothing quite like the juicy, smoky flavor of a perfectly grilled chicken breast. However, cooking chicken breasts on the BBQ can be tricky, as they tend to dry out quickly and become tough if not cooked properly. In this article, we'll go over the best way to cook chicken breast on the BBQ to ensure you get the most delicious and tender chicken possible.
Choosing the Right Chicken Breast
When choosing chicken breasts for the BBQ, it's important to choose ones that are of uniform thickness. This will ensure that they cook evenly and are tender throughout. If you have to, pound the thicker parts of the chicken breasts to even them out. Also, make sure to remove any excess fat or skin from the chicken breasts, as this can cause flare-ups on the grill and result in uneven cooking.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken breasts before grilling them will help keep them moist and add extra flavor. You can use any marinade you like, but keep in mind that acidic marinades can actually toughen the chicken if left on for too long. A good rule of thumb is to marinate the chicken for no more than 2 hours in a marinade that contains some acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar. If you're using a marinade without acid, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.
Preheating the Grill
Preheating the grill is crucial when it comes to cooking chicken breasts. You want to make sure the grill is hot enough before you start cooking, as this will help sear the chicken and lock in the juices. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F) and make sure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
Cooking the Chicken
When it comes to cooking the chicken, you want to cook it over direct heat for a short amount of time on each side, and then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking. This will ensure that the chicken is cooked through without drying out. Start by placing the chicken breasts on the grill over direct heat, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they're nicely seared. Then, move the chicken to indirect heat and close the lid of the grill. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Letting the Chicken Rest
Once the chicken is done cooking, it's important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken and makes for a juicier and more flavorful end result. Cover the chicken with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Conclusion
There you have it - the best way to cook chicken breast on the BBQ! By following these tips, you'll be able to create juicy, tender, and delicious chicken breasts every time. Remember to choose the right chicken breasts, marinate them, preheat the grill, cook them over direct and indirect heat, and let them rest before slicing. Happy grilling!