Barbequing chicken is a favorite pastime for many because it is fast, easy and tasty. However, the biggest challenge is getting a tender, juicy chicken that is well cooked on the inside. Nobody wants a dry and rubbery chicken that is overcooked, especially when they have taken the time and effort to prepare a meal for friends and family.
In this article, we share practical tips and techniques to help you master the art of barbequing chicken without drying it out. From choosing the right pieces of chicken to marinating and cooking, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to ensure your chicken is always moist and flavorful when you BBQ it. So, whether you are a seasoned pro or a novice BBQ’er, follow these tips to perfect your chicken grill game and impress your guests with mouth-watering chicken every time.
Choosing the Right Cut of Chicken for Barbecue
When it comes to BBQ chicken, choosing the right cut of meat is key to avoiding dryness. The best cuts to use are bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces such as thighs, legs, and wings. These cuts have a higher fat content which helps keep the meat moist while cooking. Plus, the skin provides a protective barrier and adds flavor.
Another option is to use a whole chicken, spatchcocked or butterflied. This involves removing the backbone and flattening the chicken, allowing it to cook more evenly and quickly. Again, keeping the skin on will help retain moisture and flavor. Regardless of the cut of chicken chosen, it is important to properly marinate or brine the meat beforehand, allowing the flavors to infuse and further prevent dryness. By choosing the right cut of chicken, you can ensure a juicy and flavorful BBQ dish that will have your guests coming back for more.
Prepping the Chicken before Barbecuing
Before you start barbecuing your chicken, you need to prepare it properly to make sure it stays moist and juicy throughout the cooking process. The first step is to marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade. Allow it to soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes before barbecuing. You can also use a brine solution to keep the chicken extra moist. Simply mix salt, sugar, and water and soak the chicken in the solution for at least an hour before barbecuing.
Another important step in prepping the chicken is to let it come to room temperature before barbecuing. When you take chicken out of the fridge, it needs to sit out for at least 30 minutes to an hour to take the chill off. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and quickly, preventing it from drying out. Make sure you pat the chicken dry with paper towels after marinating or brining to prevent any excess moisture from causing flare-ups on the grill. These simple steps will help ensure a perfectly moist and juicy BBQ chicken every time.
Marinades and Rubs to Enhance Barbecued Chicken
Marinating and rubbing chicken before cooking is a great way to add flavor and moisture to your barbecue chicken. There are countless marinades and rubs available in the market, but making your own is easier than you think. You can use a combination of herbs and spices, oils, citrus juices, honey, and even beer to create a marinade that will make your chicken juicy and delicious.
When it comes to selecting the right marinade, consider the type of chicken you’re cooking. For example, if you’re cooking boneless chicken breasts, use a marinade with enough acid to break down the muscle fibers and tenderize the meat. Alternatively, when cooking chicken thighs, use a rub that contains a mix of sweet and savory flavors to complement the natural richness of the meat. Regardless of the type of marinade or rub, be sure to refrigerate your chicken overnight to allow the flavors to infuse properly. The result will be a juicy and flavorful barbecue chicken that will be the talk of your next backyard barbecue.
Proper Grilling Techniques and Temperatures for Juicy Chicken
Proper grilling techniques and temperatures for juicy chicken require a bit of patience and know-how. One of the most important factors in achieving juicy chicken is to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. One way to ensure this is by using a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken as it cooks. This will prevent under or overcooked chicken, which can lead to dryness.
Another key aspect of proper grilling techniques for juicy chicken is to avoid placing the chicken directly over high flames. Instead, use indirect heat to cook the chicken. This can be achieved by placing the chicken on one side of the grill and placing a drip pan with water or another liquid on the other side. The steam coming from the liquid will help to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from drying out. Additionally, flipping the chicken only once during cooking and avoiding poking or prodding it too much with a fork or tongs can also help to keep the juices inside. By following these tips, your grilled chicken will be juicy and flavorful every time.
Using Wood for Smoky Flavors and Moisture
Using wood for smoky flavors and moisture is a popular method of BBQ that can bring a unique and delicious taste to your chicken. However, there are some things to keep in mind when using wood to ensure that your chicken doesn’t dry out. First, it is important to soak the wood chips in water for around an hour before you use them. This will help to control the heat and prevent the wood chips from burning too quickly.
Adding wood chips can also help to keep your chicken moist. The smoke and moisture from the wood help to keep the chicken from drying out while it cooks. You can choose from a variety of woods depending on the flavor you want to achieve, such as cherry, hickory, or apple. Keep in mind that it is important to use only a small amount of wood chips during cooking. Too much smoke can overpower the chicken and make it taste bitter. By using wood for smoky flavors and moisture, you can create a delicious BBQ chicken that is both flavorful and juicy.
Resting and Serving the Perfectly Barbecued Chicken
After you have grilled your chicken to perfection, it is essential to let it rest before serving. Allowing the meat to rest for a few minutes will help it retain its moistness and juiciness. While resting, the juices that escaped during cooking will redistribute in the chicken, making it tender and flavorful.
Once the chicken has rested for about five minutes, it’s time to serve it. You can either slice it or serve it whole, depending on your preference. When slicing, make sure to cut against the grain to keep the meat tender. Pair your perfectly grilled chicken with some side dishes of your choice and enjoy. With these tips, you can now confidently barbecue chicken without the fear of drying it out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Barbecuing Chicken.
Barbecuing chicken is a popular summer activity, and it’s important to avoid common mistakes when doing so. One of the most common mistakes people make is not properly seasoning their chicken. This can result in bland and unappetizing chicken. To avoid this mistake, use a rub or marinade to add flavor to your chicken before grilling.
Another mistake to avoid is overcooking your chicken. Chicken can dry out quickly if left on the grill for too long. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your chicken regularly. Once it reaches 165°F, it’s ready to come off the grill. Additionally, avoid constantly flipping your chicken as this can cause it to dry out. Instead, let it cook for a few minutes on one side before flipping it over. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your barbecued chicken is juicy and delicious every time.
Conclusion
In order to avoid drying out your BBQ chicken, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to its moisture loss. Keeping the grill temperature consistent and using a meat thermometer to cook the chicken to the proper temperature (165°F) can go a long way in ensuring juicy, flavorful meat. Additionally, marinating the chicken beforehand or basting it with a flavorful sauce during cooking can help retain moisture and add texture and taste.
Overall, by following these simple tips and tricks, you can become a BBQ chicken master and produce tender, flavor-packed meat with ease. Experiment with different marinade and seasoning combinations, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice or try new techniques. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be serving up delicious, succulent BBQ chicken that will leave your guests begging for more.