22 Grilled Chicken Recipes to Make Again and Again (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret to grilling chicken? ›

Brine Before Grilling to Prevent Dry, Rubbery Chicken

Brining is simply submerging the chicken in a salt-water solution before grilling. This prevents the chicken from overcooking on the grill and also helps it get great grill marks, as the increased surface moisture and sugars brown quickly.

One should gently reheat the chicken at a moderate temperature, around 325°F, to prevent further drying. Wrapping the chicken in foil or using a covered dish can trap steam and aid in re-moisturizing the meat. For added moisture, chicken stock or broth can be spooned over the chicken before reheating.

✨Microwave Method✨ Add chicken broth to the bottom of a microwave-safe dish. Add the chicken to the top and cover the chicken with a damp paper towel. Cook for 2 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add back in an additional 30 seconds if still not to the desired temperature.

So, should you oil your chicken before grilling? In the words of cluck-yes! Not only does it prevent your chicken from sticking, but it also helps retain moisture, adds a layer of flavor, and ensures a perfectly golden exterior that's sure to make even the most stoic grill master shed a tear of joy.

Consider brining the chicken before grilling to enhance its moisture retention. A simple brine solution of water, salt, and sugar helps the chicken absorb and retain more water, resulting in juicier meat. Brine the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours, for optimal results.

For thicker cuts, you want to close the lid to keep the temperature high and even. Large steaks, chicken, and roasts have much more depth for the heat to penetrate, and closing the lid will give the heat time to sink in and cook the meat through in much the same way an oven does.

Place your chicken breasts on your preheated grill, and close the lid. It's important to keep the lid of your grill closed while your chicken is cooking so that no heat escapes. Cook your chicken breast on the grill for 6-8 minutes on one side. After 6-8 minutes flip your chicken breast and cook for 6-8 minutes more.

Most grillers will apply the sauce first and then continue to baste the chicken with sauce while it cooks. This is a common practice, but it can lead to burning your chicken. You want the chicken to slowly cook to perfection and then add the sauce during the final 10 to 15 minutes of cooking.

The best way to do it is by wrapping it in foil (with a little opening for steam) and putting it in your oven or toaster oven. You can even include a little bit of water or broth to moisten it, but it's not totally necessary.