Grilling chicken breast is one of the most popular and easiest ways to cook chicken, whether it’s for a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner. While boneless chicken breasts are a great meal option, sometimes you may want to opt for bone-in chicken breasts instead. However, the cooking time for bone-in chicken breasts can be longer than boneless ones, which can lead to some confusion about the ideal grilling time.
If you’re wondering how long it takes to grill bone-in chicken breasts, there are a few factors to consider. The thickness of the chicken breasts, the grill temperature, and the cooking method all play a role in determining the ideal grilling time. In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that affect the cooking time of bone-in chicken breasts and offer some tips on how to achieve the perfect grilled chicken every time.
Preparing the Chicken Breast for Grilling
Preparing chicken breast for grilling is as important as cooking it to perfection. Before grilling, you should first marinate the chicken to infuse exciting flavors into it. To marinate the chicken breast, start by washing it thoroughly, and ensure there is no feather or debris left in it. Having done that, place your chicken breasts in a bowl, and make sure they don’t pile up on each other to ensure even marination.
Next, add in your preferred marinade, and make sure it covers every part of the chicken breast. Cover the bowl with a plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to marinate. Marinating helps tenderize the chicken and makes it juicy and flavorful. When marinating, keep in mind that acidic marinades can sometimes break down the chicken proteins, so don’t leave them for too long. After marinating, your chicken is now ready for grilling.
Determining the Correct Temperature for Grilling Bone-in Chicken Breast
Before grilling bone-in chicken breasts, it is important to determine the correct temperature to ensure that the chicken is cooked thoroughly and is safe to eat. The ideal temperature for grilling bone-in chicken breasts is between 165°F-170°F. At this temperature, the chicken will have reached a safe internal temperature and will also remain juicy and tender.
One way to determine the temperature of the chicken is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, making sure not to touch the bone. Once the thermometer reads between 165°F-170°F, the chicken is ready to be removed from the grill. With this method, you can be sure that your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, while also being flavorful and juicy.
Understanding the Time Required for Grilling Depending on the Thickness of the Chicken Breast
When it comes to grilling chicken breast bone-in, understanding the time required for cooking mainly depends on the thickness of the chicken breast. In general, a thicker chicken breast takes longer to cook than a thinner one, so the cooking time is not the same in all cases. Therefore, it is essential to take into account the thickness of the chicken breast before starting to grill it.
For instance, a bone-in chicken breast that is 1 inch thick requires around 12 to 15 minutes of cooking per side over medium heat on a gas grill. However, if the same chicken breast is thinner, say half an inch, it will take about 6-8 minutes per side on medium heat. Conversely, a bone-in chicken breast that is thicker than 1 inch may require an additional two to three minutes of cooking per side. It is best to use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken breast reaches 165°F.
Exploring Different Grilling Methods for Bone-in Chicken Breast
When it comes to grilling bone-in chicken breast, there are multiple methods to consider. One popular method is the indirect grilling method, where the chicken is placed on one side of the grill while the heat source is on the other side. This allows for a slower and more even cooking process, ensuring that the chicken is cooked all the way through without burning. Another method is the direct grilling method, where the chicken is placed directly above the heat source. This method can result in a crispy and charred exterior, but the chicken must be monitored closely to prevent overcooking or burning.
Some other grilling methods that can be used for bone-in chicken breast include brining the chicken beforehand to add flavor and moisture, using a marinade to add flavor and tenderize the meat, and using a herb or spice rub to add a unique taste. Overall, the best grilling method for bone-in chicken breast will vary depending on personal preference, but it is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
Tips and Tricks for Grilling the Perfect Bone-in Chicken Breast
When it comes to grilling the perfect bone-in chicken breast, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results. First and foremost, it’s important to marinate the chicken before grilling. This helps to infuse the meat with flavor and keep it moist while cooking. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own by combining oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Another important tip is to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before it’s safe to eat. To prevent the chicken from drying out, you can baste it with a mixture of melted butter and herbs or brush it with BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking. Additionally, it’s important to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving, which allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist and tender. By following these tips and tricks, you can grill the perfect bone-in chicken breast every time.
Checking for Doneness: How to Tell When Your Chicken is Fully Cooked
Once you’ve placed your chicken breasts on the grill, it’s important to keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. The easiest and most reliable way to tell when your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast, making sure not to touch the bone, and check the temperature. For chicken, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once it does, you can remove the chicken from the grill.
Another way to check if your chicken is fully cooked is to use the “touch test”. This involves using your fingers to press down on the surface of the chicken. If the chicken is firm and springs back when you touch it, it’s fully cooked. However, if it’s still soft and squishy, it needs more time on the grill. Keep in mind that this method is not as reliable as using a thermometer, so it’s always best to check the temperature as well. By using either of these methods, you can ensure that your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Serving and Enjoying Your Grilled Bone-in Chicken Breast
After waiting patiently for your bone-in chicken breast to grill, it’s finally time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The first step in serving your grilled chicken is to remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps to redistribute the juices throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. Once it’s rested, you can carve the breast meat away from the bone and slice it thinly for an impressive presentation.
When it comes to serving your grilled bone-in chicken breast, the sky is the limit in terms of options. You can serve it alongside your favorite grilled vegetables, toss it in a salad, or layer it on top of a sandwich. If you’re looking for something more indulgent, pair it with a creamy risotto or mashed potatoes. No matter how you choose to serve your grilled chicken, be sure to savor each delicious bite and relish in the satisfaction of cooking a meal that’s both healthy and flavorful.
The Bottom Line
Grilling bone-in chicken breasts to perfection requires a little know-how and patience. The time required to grill depends on the size of the chicken breasts and the heat of the grill. But with practice and an understanding of the process, you can ensure that your chicken breasts are juicy, tender, and cooked to the right temperature every time.
To achieve perfectly grilled bone-in chicken breasts, it’s essential to marinate them for at least an hour before grilling, brush regularly with oil, and season with your favorite spices. Additionally, you’ll need to keep a close eye on the temperature of the grill and the chicken to avoid over or undercooking. With the right techniques and timing, you can have a tasty, healthy, and satisfying meal in less time than you think.