BBQ season is the perfect time to gather around with family and friends to enjoy some delicious grilled food. Whether you’re a barbecue pro or a beginner, cooking chicken on the BBQ can be tricky. One of the biggest challenges is keeping the chicken moist and juicy while cooking.
Dry and overcooked chicken is not only unappetizing but also a health hazard. So, how can you ensure that your chicken is moist and succulent on the BBQ? In this article, we’ll explore some tips and tricks that will help you cook the perfect BBQ chicken every time. From marinating to temperature control, we’ve got you covered.
Preparing the chicken for the BBQ
Preparing chicken for the BBQ is an essential step to ensure that it comes out juicy and flavorful. Before cooking, remove any excess fat or skin from the chicken, as this can cause flare-ups on the grill and dry out the meat. Additionally, rinsing the chicken thoroughly under cold water can remove any unwanted bacteria or debris.
To enhance the flavor of the chicken, marinating it in a mixture of herbs, spices, and oil for a few hours before grilling is highly recommended. A simple marinade of lemon, garlic, and olive oil can go a long way in keeping the chicken moist and juicy. Once the chicken is marinated, pat it dry with a paper towel before placing it on the grill. Preparing the chicken for the BBQ may seem like a small step, but it can make a big difference in the final result.
Choosing the right cooking method
Choosing the right cooking method is an essential step in keeping your chicken moist on the BBQ. There are several cooking methods to choose from, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. One of the most popular methods is indirect grilling, where the chicken is placed to the side of the grill and cooked using indirect heat. This allows the chicken to cook slowly and thoroughly without drying out.
Another popular method is to use a cooking technique called spatchcocking. This involves removing the backbone of the chicken and flattening it out on the grill. This method allows the chicken to cook more evenly, reducing the risk of drying out. Ultimately, the key to keeping your chicken moist on the BBQ is to choose the right cooking method and consistently monitor the temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection.
Using a meat thermometer to check doneness
When cooking chicken on the BBQ, using a meat thermometer is a foolproof way to ensure that it is cooked to a safe temperature and is not overcooked. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking meat and gives you a precise reading. It’s important to remember that chicken needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (or 74°C) to be considered safe to eat. Cooking chicken until it’s about 160-165°F (70-75°C) on a meat thermometer will allow for residual heat to continue cooking it after it’s removed from the heat source.
To use a meat thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the chicken and make sure it’s not touching any bone or the grill. Leave it in place for a few seconds until the temperature reading stabilizes. If the temperature reading is below the safe cooking temperature for chicken, put it back on the grill until it reaches the safe temperature. Using a meat thermometer will ensure that the chicken is safe to eat without overcooking it and drying it out, giving you tender and juicy meat that will be a hit at your BBQ.
Marinating and basting techniques for added flavor and moisture
Marinating your chicken prior to grilling is a great way to infuse flavor and increase moisture. A marinade typically consists of an acidic or enzymatic solution, oil, herbs, and spices. The acid or enzyme helps to break down tough proteins and allows the marinade to penetrate the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken. Marinades can be made using a variety of ingredients, such as citrus juices, soy sauce, vinegar, yogurt, or buttermilk. Be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the acid can over-tenderize the meat and cause it to become mushy.
Basting your chicken while it grills is another technique to enhance moisture and add flavor. Brushing your chicken with a sauce or oil-based mixture not only helps keep it moist and prevent it from drying out, but it also adds another layer of flavor. Basting can be done using a variety of brushes, such as silicone, natural bristle, or even a bundle of herbs tied together. Just be sure to apply the baste evenly and avoid brushing on too much at once, as it can cause flare-ups and char the meat.
Adding moisture with herbs and vegetables
Adding moisture with herbs and vegetables is an excellent way to keep your chicken moist and flavorful on the BBQ. By incorporating herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage into your marinade or dry rub, you not only add a layer of flavor but also help to retain the chicken’s moisture. These herbs contain natural oils that lock in the chicken’s natural juices, making it more tender and juicy.
Vegetables such as onions, peppers, and garlic also add moisture to your chicken. These vegetables release moisture as they cook, which helps to keep the chicken moist and juicy. You can either toss them in with your chicken on the grill or place them in the pan underneath the chicken as it cooks. Additionally, you can create a bed of vegetables for your chicken to rest on, providing a steady source of moisture and flavor. By utilizing herbs and vegetables, you can ensure that your chicken stays moist, juicy, and full of flavor every time you grill.
Letting the chicken rest before serving
Once your chicken is cooked to perfection on the BBQ, resist the temptation to dig in straight away! It’s essential to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help ensure it remains moist and juicy, rather than drying out and becoming tough.
When you cook chicken, the juices are drawn to the centre of the meat. Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking gives it time for the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavourful eating experience. Cover your chicken with foil and leave it to rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This will give the meat a chance to relax, and the juices will be evenly distributed throughout the chicken when you cut it. As a result, your guests will be rewarded with succulent, moist meat that’s packed with flavour.
Tips for avoiding common mistakes on the BBQ
When it comes to BBQ, there are common mistakes that tend to happen, leading to dry and flavorless chicken. One mistake is, cooking chicken over high heat while not paying attention to the cooking time. This leads to uneven cooking and burnt exterior while the inside is still raw. To avoid this, ensure that you cook the chicken over low to medium heat and monitor the cooking time.
Another mistake is failing to preheat the grill before placing the chicken on it. This results in the chicken taking longer to cook and sticking to the grill grates. To prevent this, preheat the grill for about 15 minutes before placing the chicken on it. Additionally, always make sure to clean the grill grates before cooking to avoid any food sticking on it. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your BBQ chicken is moist, flavorful, and an absolute hit.
Final Verdict
As a summary, keeping chicken moist on the BBQ requires more than just marinating it. Though marinating works wonders, it’s important to pay attention to cooking time, temperature, and the thickness of the meat. Consider brining your chicken before grilling to make sure it stays moist and tender. By using indirect heat, adding some liquid, and keeping the lid closed as much as possible, you can ensure your BBQ chicken always comes out succulent and juicy.
In essence, mastering the art of keeping chicken moist on the BBQ takes practice and patience. With a little experimentation and attention to details, anyone can make perfectly moist and tender BBQ chicken without much difficulty. So go ahead and give it a try, your taste buds will thank you!