Grill Like a Pro: How to Make Mouthwatering Barbecue Chicken [with Step-by-Step Instructions and Expert Tips]

Short answer how to make barbecue chicken on the grill: Coat chicken in BBQ sauce and grill until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve with extra BBQ sauce. Optional: marinate beforehand for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Guide for Making Delicious Barbecue Chicken on the Grill

Barbecue chicken is a delicious dish that is enjoyed by people all around the world. The smoky and succulent flavors of juicy chicken meat, combined with spicy and tangy barbecue sauce is an irresistible combination that leaves everyone wanting more. Grilling your chicken over an open flame can enhance its flavor greatly, as it allows you to obtain that perfect charred crust on the outside while maintaining moistness within. So grab your apron and let’s get down to business as we walk you through a step-by-step guide for making delicious barbecue chicken on the grill.

Step 1: Brine the Chicken

The first step in making succulent grilled barbecue chicken is to brine it overnight in salt water. Brining works wonders for poultry, as it tenderizes and infuses moisture into the meat, which will help prevent it from drying out during cooking. You can also add fresh herbs or spices to your brine mixture for added flavor.

To make a basic brine solution, mix one gallon of water with 1 cup of kosher salt until dissolved completely. Add other seasonings like bay leaves, rosemary sprigs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Place the chicken pieces into a large ziplock bag or container and pour the brine over them so they are fully submerged. Leave them in the fridge overnight (at least 8 hours) before grilling.

Step 2: Dry Rub or Marinade

After removing your chicken from the brine solution, pat it dry using paper towels so that excess moisture doesn’t interfere with cooking & browning on grill surface.
Next up is seasoning time! Applying a dry rub or marinade to seal in flavors will give additional taste punch making sure every bite is juicy and savoury when eaten.
For ready-to-mix seasoning ideas go-to sources such as online recipes or simply experiment with additional savory ingredients of your own liking until achieving desired results.

Step 3: Heat-Up Grill & Oil grates

Preheat your grill high heat to 375-400°F so when the chicken hits the grates, it sears evenly, locking in all those delicious flavors. Before adding any chicken to prevent sticking, use a pair of tongs and brush some vegetable oil on grill grates. That will create strips of grilled marks on under sides of meat (esthetically pleasing), & help cook them evenly.

Step 4: Grill Chicken

Once your grill is hot, it’s time to get started! Place the chicken pieces onto the grill over direct heat but not directly above flames which might cause them to burn or dry out.
Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown in color and slightly charred with caramelized outer crust; don’t repeatedly flip as it takes longer for internal temperature to rise up adequately. Upon achieving perfect inner thigh temperatures range (160°F) you’ve reached your target!

Step 5: Baste with Barbecue Sauce

Brush your choice barbecue sauce containing savory and sweet ingredients such as molasses plus liquid smoke combination thoroughly on both sides of precooked chicken parts while still hot from grill This helps create a sticky coating that leaves an explosion of taste in the mouth with every bite!

Pro Tips:
You can also add wood chips like hickory, mesquite or applewood chunks if smoking flavor is desired.
Avoid using too much sugar based basting sauces as these risk burning too quickly causing excessively blackened surface appearance
Always monitor meat temperature using an instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part; depending on cut size this may require more than one measurement during cooking process until adequate internal temp is achieved – for example breast should aim at roughly160°F while thighs around175°F.

There you have it! A step-by-step guide for making delicious barbecue chicken that even top chefs would approveof. With these tips, you can now grill juicy and succulent barbecue chicken that will impress even the toughest critics at your next outdoor barbecue event. So get out there, fire up your grill, and enjoy perfecting your skills with this classic dish.

Common FAQ About How to Make BBQ Chicken on the Grill

If you’re a BBQ enthusiast, then grilling up some tasty chicken on the grill is definitely in your wheelhouse. But, for those who are just starting out or wanting to brush up on their skills, there can be many questions about how to make the perfect BBQ chicken on the grill. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! Here are some common FAQ’s that you may have.

Q: Should I use boneless or bone-in chicken?
A: When it comes to grilling chicken, both boneless and bone-in cuts can be used. Boneless chicken cooks faster and more evenly since there’s no bone, while the bone-in ones take longer to cook but usually come out juicier and flavorful in the end. Ultimately it depends on your personal preference.

Q: What type of marinade or seasoning should I use?
A: That’s completely up to you! There are endless recipes available online for delicious homemade marinades and seasoning blends or even store-bought ones enriched with natural herbs and spices. Popular flavors include BBQ, garlic and herb, jerk spice, teriyaki sauce or lemon pepper.

Q: How long should I marinate my chicken?
A: It really depends on what kind of flavor profile you’re going for but at least for an hour will bring the flavors sufficiently out.

Q: How do I ensure that my chicken doesn’t stick to the grill grates?
A: One of the biggest challenges when making grilled chicken is preventing it from sticking onto your grill grates while cooking over high heat (which always spoils everything!) To avoid this nightmare scenario, try cleaning your grate first using a grill brush dipped in vegetable oil just before placing your meat onto its surface (this will create a non-stick layer). You might also try using tongs instead of a spatula so as not pierce through any susceptible skin

Q: Should I keep opening the grill lid while cooking?
A: No, we recommend not lifting the lid too frequently. This will ensure that the food retains heat and cooks evenly on both sides without having to flip it too many times. Managing temperature is an art form when trying to get those beautiful sear marks.

Q: How can I tell when my chicken is done?
A: Checking for doneness with a meat thermometer is the best method (you can buy one fairly cheap at your local hardware store). Insert it into the thickest part of your chicken, making sure to avoid touching any bone, cartilage or other spots where there might be uneven thickness that could skew readings. For boneless poultry, you should aim for an internal temperature of between 165°F and 170°F degree Fahrenheit.

In conclusion, everyone has their own trick to creating their perfect BBQ chicken recipe on the grill – but these tips above are a great foundation. With some trial and error, experimenting with different cuts of chicken or seasoning blends until you find what works best for your taste buds!

Top 5 Facts You Need to Know About Making BBQ Chicken on the Grill

As summer approaches, one of the best ways to enjoy the warm weather is by firing up the grill and making some delicious barbeque chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ pro or just starting out, there are certain facts that you need to bear in mind if you want your chicken to come out perfect every time. So let’s dive into the top 5 facts you need to know about making BBQ chicken on the grill!

1. Choose the Right Cut

The first step towards making a mouth-watering BBQ chicken is choosing the right cut of meat. You can opt for boneless chicken breasts or thighs, but many experts recommend using bone-in chicken pieces as they retain more moisture and flavor during cooking.

2. Marinate Your Chicken

Marinating your chicken before grilling it is essential if you want it to be juicy and flavorful. A marinade not only helps in tenderizing tough muscle fibers but also adds depth and complexity of flavors to your dish.

You can make a basic marinade using oil, vinegar or lemon juice, herbs such as rosemary, thyme along with salt and pepper for seasoning. Alternatively, try mixing up a sweeter version with honey or brown sugar paired with soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added nuttiness.

3. Timing is Everything

Timing plays an important role in getting that perfect color on your grilled chicken while ensuring it stays cooked from inside-out without being overdone. Preheat your grill beforehand (to medium-high heat) so that it reaches an even temperature all around.

Start grilling by placing thicker cuts like drumsticks or thighs nearest to the heat source and thinner cuts like wings further away from it (on indirect heat). Depending on how thick the meat cut is, cook on each side for 7-8 minutes before turning over and repeating twice more until reaching an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

4. Monitor Your Grill Temperature

Maintaining a consistent temperature is vital when grilling chicken. Start by heating your grill to the appropriate temperature for your cut of meat (medium-high heat works well for most cuts). Next, monitor the temperature regularly during cooking with a thermometer ensuring that it doesn’t exceed 400°F otherwise you may risk burning your chicken or leaving it undercooked.

5. Rest Your Chicken

The last important factor in making perfect BBQ chicken is letting it rest after cooking. Trying to slice or cut into it right away will release all of the juices and make your chicken dry out quickly. Instead, let it rest covered under a foil tent for at least five minutes before serving so that the flavors mingle together making each bite irresistible.

In conclusion, these are some top facts you need to know about making bbq chicken on the grill like a pro every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different marinades, spices, and cuts of meat till you find what suits your taste buds! But do keep these tips in mind while creating your perfect summer grilling recipe.

Preparing and Marinating Your Chicken for Grilling

Grilling chicken is a quintessential summer activity that brings people together for delicious and satisfying meals. But grilling chicken to perfection requires more than just throwing the bird on the fire, it requires detailed preparation and marinating.

Preparing your chicken before it hits the grill can determine whether you end up with a succulent, juicy piece of meat or one that’s dry and flavorless. Here are a few steps to help you prepare your chicken for grilling:

Step 1: Clean Your Chicken

Rinse the chicken thoroughly with running cold water to ensure any dirt or debris is washed off. Once cleaned, pat the chicken dry using paper towels or a clean dish towel.

Step 2: Brine Your Chicken

Brining involves soaking your chicken in saltwater, which helps the meat retain its moisture while adding flavor to it. To start brining your chicken, mix around ¼ cup of kosher salt or sea salt in every quart of water until dissolved.

Place your chicken into a large bowl or food-safe plastic bag and pour enough brining solution over it to cover entirely. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Marinate Your Chicken

Marinating is another fantastic way to add an extra kick of flavor to your grilled meats. For best results, explore different marinades – ginger-soy marinade; yogurt marinade; lemon-garlic marinade- before deciding which one suits your taste buds best.

The simplest marination process involves mixing ingredients such as oil and vinegar (or acid bases) with herbs like thyme, oregano & garlic (or aromatics). Pour this mixture over gently poked holes made in the skin/flesh of each piece so that when heated directly over coals/flames, they provide unique flavors infused right inside them!

Pro-tip: Marinate in advance if possible! The flavors penetrate deep inside for maximum boldness & deliciousness. 24-48 hours is ideal, but even a few hours will yield some extra flavor.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

It is essential to preheat the grill when grilling chicken to ensure it cooks evenly and beautifully. The type of grill you are using will determine how long it takes to heat up.

For charcoal grills, light the coals about 30 minutes before place your chicken on the grill. For gas grills, turn all burners on high and close the lid for 10 minutes before adjusting them to your preferred temperature.

Grilling Time

When all preparation marination steps are done, take out your juicy marinated chicken from brine/marinade, pat dry if they’re too wet & lay them on to gri gridiron/griller tray one by one making sure no piece is touching each other. Cook until golden brown with a slightly charred exterior turning over each piece in between for even cooking process.

Closing Remarks

Following these simple yet crucial steps will help you transform plain old grilled chicken into scrumptious mouth-watering delights! So next time you fire up that grill and reach out for those drumsticks or breasts – remember that preparing and marinating your meat wisely beforehand makes a world of difference!

The Best Cooking Techniques for Perfectly Grilled BBQ Chicken

When it comes to grilling, chicken is always on the top of the menu for barbeque lovers. It’s a juicy and delicious protein option that can be customized according to personal taste preferences with the help of some amazing cooking techniques. Grilled BBQ Chicken has become an all-time favourite for summer outdoor dining and events. But, how do you get it right? Here are some professional tips and tricks that will help you master cooking techniques for perfect Grilled BBQ Chicken.

1) Marinating- One of the best ways to add flavour and moisture to your chicken is by marinating it. A good marinade will not only tenderize but also enhance its flavouring before it hits the grill. To make a great marinade, combine oil, acid, salt, spices or herbs in a small bowl then place your chicken in a ziplock bag with the marinade for at least 30 minutes up to overnight depending on how strong you want it.

2) Preheat Your Grill- Make sure your grill is preheated at medium-high heat as this helps lock in moisture when you start cooking your chicken correctly.

3) Cook chicken gradually – The secret to perfectly grilled bbq chicken is slow-cooking each side until done without burning them. This technique will allow even cooking through while maintaining its juiciness throughout. Once flames die down use indirect heat and adjust grates to raise it up once flip till cooked thoroughly.

4) Keep basting – continuously basting the barbecue sauce on both sides while grilling ensures that keeps meat consistently moist thus avoiding dryness.

5) Use Meat Thermometer – The last step before taking off food from the grill should be checking temperatures have been reached (165°F internally). Using an instant-read thermometer takes guesswork out of determining whether or not your meal is safe or overcooked from prolonged exposure time without ruining everyone’s palate buds.

Following these simple yet professionally tested methods will leave you with perfect grilled bbq chicken every time. So next time when you plan for a gathering, consider putting these tips into action, and I assure you; all your guests will be impressed!

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes to Pair with Your BBQ Chicken

Barbecue chicken is a staple food in most outdoor gatherings, and no one ever tires of it. This delicious dish comes with a variety of serving suggestions as well as mouthwatering side dishes that can elevate its taste to the next level. In this blog post, we will explore some serving suggestions and side dishes that will perfectly complement your BBQ chicken.

Serving Suggestions:

Corn on the Cob: The sweet flavors of corn add an extra pop of flavor to your barbecue chicken. It’s best served on the cob, topped off with a dollop of butter and salt for added richness.

Grilled Vegetables: Grilled veggies like asparagus or bell peppers are perfect alongside grilled chicken because they both take approximately the same amount of time to cook. Grill them right alongside your chicken for maximum freshness and ease in preparation.

Pasta Salad: Pasta salad is light yet filling and adds a great touch to any outdoor gathering meal. The dish consists usually of pasta noodles tossed together in mayonnaise-based sauce mixed with vegetables like chopped bell peppers, carrots, onions, or even cheese.

Side Dishes:

Coleslaw: Coleslaw is always an excellent option to pair with any sort of barbecue meat as it provides a refreshing balance for those tangy flavors. It’s quite easy to put together too – shredded cabbage tossed in mayonnaise makes up the base but you could add other ingredients such as diced pineapple or apples into the mix.

Baked Beans: Baked beans are another classic barbeque accompaniment full that completes this dish by providing a hearty comfort-food feel. Often made with smoked bacon bits, these beans simmered in tomato sauce are a hit at any summer gathering.

Potato Salad: A great combination of starchy potatoes plus mayo-based dressing makes Potato salad another popular side item for barbecues – it often includes chopped celery sticks or onions.

Conclusion:

Barbecue Chicken pairs exceptionally well with many serving suggestions and simple side dishes to make for a memorable meal. The above listed side options add contrasting colors, rich flavors, and variety to the menu without resorting to complicated recipes or intricate food prep. Be it your upcoming Fourth of July cookout or just family gathering in your backyard, these ideas will certainly take your barbecue chicken game up another level!

Table with useful data:

Ingredients:	Instructions:
1 lb chicken breasts	1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
1/4 cup olive oil	2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
1 tsp paprika	3. Brush chicken with the olive oil mixture and let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
1 tsp garlic powder	4. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
1/2 tsp salt	5. Optional: baste with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
1/4 tsp black pepper	6. Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Information from an expert

Barbecue chicken on the grill is a classic summer dish that can be easily mastered with a few simple tips. First, marinate your chicken for at least an hour before grilling to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. Next, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Finally, brush on your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor. Enjoy!

Historical fact:

Barbecue chicken has been a popular dish in the Southern United States since the 19th century, with recipes dating back to at least the 1850s.