Looking for the best BBQ chicken tips? You’ve come to the right place! Barbecued chicken is a quintessential dish for any grilling occasion, just alongside hot dogs and hamburgers. However, cooking chicken on the grill can present its challenges, as it requires more time and lower temperatures compared to these popular options. The secret to irresistible barbecued chicken lies in one essential element: patience.

BBQ Chicken Tips: How Long Should You Grill Chicken?

Understanding Cooking Times

When grilling chicken, expect to spend at least one hour, with larger pieces taking up to two hours. Keep in mind that barbecuing is all about low and slow cooking. While you can grill chicken breasts quickly, we recommend using thighs, legs, or wings for a more flavorful barbecue experience. These tips can help you master BBQ chicken preparation effectively.

Moderating Your Heat

• To manage the grill heat effectively, consider these options:
• Place all coals on one side for a cool spot.
• Position chicken on the top rack, away from direct heat.
• For gas grills, lower the flame to create a gentle cooking environment.

Slow and steady cooking helps achieve the best barbecued chicken outcomes. Following these  chicken tips will make a notable difference in your grilling experience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling BBQ Chicken

This guide focuses on essential techniques rather than specific recipes. Your favorite barbecue sauce can elevate the flavors! If you have your own BBQ chicken recipe or tips, feel free to share in the comments. Keeping these BBQ chicken tips in mind ensures a delicious result every time.

BBQ Chicken Tips: Alternative Grilling Methods to Try

Discover various chicken cuts suitable for barbecuing. Almost any part can work well, but generally:

• Thighs and legs handle slow, low cooking better than breasts.
• Always cook chicken to a minimum of 160°F for breasts and 170°F for thighs.

If you’re grilling a whole chicken, try the spatchcocking method for even cooking. Experimenting with different techniques is one of the best chicken tips for variety and flavor.

Best Cuts for BBQ Chicken

Many chicken cuts shine on the grill. Particularly:

• Legs and thighs retain moisture during long cooking durations.
• Breast meat, while delicious, can dry out if not monitored carefully.

Don’t forget to grill with the skin on to help maintain moisture and flavor! Applying these BBQ chicken tips will enhance the texture and taste of your dish.

Preparing Your Grill for BBQ Chicken

To achieve the best results, proper grill preparation is crucial. Here’s what you need to consider:

Essential Ingredients

• 4 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken parts (legs, thighs, wings, breasts).
• Kosher salt.
• Olive oil or vegetable oil.
• 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce.

Grill Setup

Prepare one side of the grill for high, direct heat and ensure there’s a cooler side without coals for slower cooking. Following these preparation chicken tips will set the foundation for successful grilling.

Cooking Instructions

1. Oil and Salt: Coat chicken in olive oil and sprinkle salt generously.
2. Grill Setup: Prepare the grill with direct heat on one side and keep the other side cooler.
3. Sear and Move: Lay chicken skin-side down on the hot side to sear for 5-10 minutes, then flip and relocate to the cooler side.
4. Baste and Cook: After covering, grill for 20-30 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce during this time. Always recall the BBQ chicken tips for even flavor distribution.
5. Check Temperature: Chicken is done at 160°F (white meat) or 170°F (dark meat). Proper adherence to these BBQ chicken tips ensures juicy and safe-to-eat results.