When it comes to grilling chicken, there are a lot of methods and recipes out there. But if you’re looking for a tried and true method from a trusted source, look no further than Alton Brown. The beloved food personality and host of Good Eats has a simple, easy-to-follow technique for grilling chicken that yields moist, flavorful meat every time.
If you’re a fan of Alton Brown’s cooking philosophy – which espouses the importance of understanding the science behind food – then you’ll appreciate his approach to grilling chicken. He doesn’t just give you a recipe to follow blindly; instead, he explains the purpose behind each step and technique, so you can truly understand what’s happening as you grill your chicken. So if you want to up your grilling game and impress your friends and family with perfectly cooked chicken, read on to learn how to grill chicken the Alton Brown way.
The Basics of Grilling Chicken Alton Brown Style
Grilling chicken Alton Brown style means understanding the basics of cooking meat. The first rule is to always preheat the grill to about 450-500°F. This ensures an even and thorough cooking process, without charring or drying out the meat. You should also lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and tearing.
When it comes to grilling chicken, there are a few things to keep in mind. Always start with high-quality, boneless chicken breasts. Season the chicken with a dry rub or marinade for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Once the grill is up to temperature, place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F before removing it from the grill. Finally, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts for Grilling
When it comes to grilling chicken, choosing the right cut is crucial to your success on the grill. Whether you want to grill chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or drumsticks, each cut of chicken has unique properties that will affect how it cooks and tastes.
Chicken breasts are leaner and cook quickly, making them a popular choice for grilling. However, they can easily become dry if overcooked. To prevent this, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Thighs are more forgiving and have more flavor than the breasts due to their higher fat content, and they can be grilled without drying out. Chicken wings and drumsticks are great for a party and are perfect for grilling, especially if they’re marinated first. Whichever cut of chicken you choose, make sure it’s fresh, without any discoloration or unpleasant odors, and enjoy the delicious results of your grilled chicken.
Prepping Your Chicken for the Grill
Prepping your chicken is a critical step in ensuring a successful grilling experience. First, you will need to rinse your chicken thoroughly with water and pat it dry with paper towels. Once the chicken is dry, it’s time to trim off any excess fat or skin as this will provide a better grilling experience.
Next, you’ll want to season your chicken liberally with spices and herbs. Alton Brown recommends a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add your favorite dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly on both sides and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Prepping your chicken properly will ensure that it’s flavorful and tender when it’s time to serve.
Tips for Achieving Perfect Grill Marks
Achieving perfect grill marks on chicken is not only visually appealing but can also add a smoky flavor to the meat. To achieve these marks, it is essential to preheat the grill to a high temperature. A preheated grill will help the chicken to sear quickly and create the desired marks.
For even grilling, it is advised to use tongs instead of a fork to turn the chicken. This will prevent any precious juices from escaping and drying out the meat. Additionally, it is recommended to oil the grill grates lightly before placing the chicken on the grill. This will prevent the meat from sticking to the grates and will help create perfect grill marks. By following these simple tips, you can achieve the perfect grill marks on your chicken and impress your guests with a juicy and flavorful meal.
Alton Brown’s Secret Marinade Recipe for Grilled Chicken
Alton Brown, the renowned chef and TV personality, has a secret marinade recipe for grilled chicken that he claims is the best he’s ever tasted. The recipe uses a combination of ingredients that are easily available, and it’s simple enough for anyone to follow.
To make Alton Brown’s secret marinade recipe for grilled chicken, you would need to mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and black pepper. Once you’ve mixed the ingredients well, pour the marinade over your chicken and let it sit for at least an hour before you grill it. The marinade imparts a sweet and tangy flavor to the chicken, making it juicy and tender to taste. This recipe is sure to win over the hearts and stomachs of everyone who tries it.
Cooking Time and Temperature for Grilled Chicken
The perfect grilled chicken needs the right cooking time and temperature to avoid undercooked or overcooked meat. The best temperature to grill chicken is around 165°F, which can be achieved by preheating the grill to medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes. This ensures that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and remains juicy on the inside.
On average, boneless chicken breasts should be grilled for about 6-8 minutes per side, while bone-in chicken takes around 10-14 minutes per side. However, these times vary based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, so it’s recommended to use a digital meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Once the chicken has reached a temperature of 165°F, take it off the grill and let it rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving. Proper cooking time and temperature are crucial to achieving a delicious, juicy, and perfectly grilled chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Grilling Chicken Alton Brown Style
While grilling chicken the Alton Brown style is an excellent way to cook it, there are some common mistakes that can ruin the meal. First, avoid overcooking the chicken. When you leave it on the grill too long, it can become dry and tough. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Secondly, do not forget to marinate your chicken before grilling. This helps to tenderize the meat and gives it a pleasant flavor. Also, do not skip preheating the grill, as it helps to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly without sticking. Lastly, be sure to handle the chicken properly to prevent cross-contamination. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious, juicy grilled chicken Alton Brown style.
Wrapping Up
Grilling a perfect chicken is an art, and Alton Brown surely knows it. His technique of preparing the chicken before placing it on the grill can bring significant improvements to the overall taste and texture. Marinating the chicken in a buttermilk solution and then coating it with a flavorful spice mix allows the chicken to remain moist and tender, while also adding a delicious crispiness to the skin.
Moreover, following Brown’s advice on temperature control and cooking time can guarantee that the chicken is cooked evenly, avoiding any risk of undercooked or overcooked meat. By following these simple steps, anyone can master the art of grilling chicken like a pro, impressing their guests and leaving them wanting for more. So, pick up your grilling kit and get ready to serve the juiciest and most flavorsome grilled chicken possible.