What is the best way to cook a chicken breast and how long does it take to grill it? There are many options, and every cook has their own opinion. Some people prefer it cooked just until done, while others like it is well-done. Some methods work better for one type of meat than another. If you have a favorite recipe or cooking method, this article will help you figure out how long to grill chicken breast so that your meal turns out perfectly.
How long to grill chicken breast
Since every chicken breast size is different, it is hard to say exactly how long to grill chicken breast. Depending on the thickness of your meat, you may need to cook it for more or less time. Cooking time varies from 20 to 30 mins at 375 degrees Fahrenheit in some cases. However, here are some general rules for when you barbecue chicken, specifically the breast:
You grill chicken breast on both sides so you’ll have to grill one side for about 10 mins and then flip it and grill the other side for another 10 mins. This way, you cook the chicken slowly on both sides. Keep in mind that even if you are cooking at a low temperature, you still need to ensure that the meat has been thoroughly cooked before eating it.
how long to grill chicken breast
You can help your chicken turn out moist by basting it with butter while you are grilling. This will not only improve the flavor of your chicken, but it will also help it stay moist. Many people choose to marinate or brine their meat before grilling it to increase its flavor and make it more tender. Marinades typically contain oil, salt, acid (such as vinegar), garlic, onion, pepper, lemon, and other spices.
Ways to grill:
There are many different cooking methods that work well for grilling chicken breast. You can use a gas or charcoal grill, oven broiler, stove-top skillet, or an outdoor grill. No matter which method you decide to use, the important thing is to follow these general rules:
- Always set your grill to medium-high heat. If you do not preheat the grill, meat can stick to it and may fall apart or cause flareups. Keep the lid closed as much as possible. This will prevent burning your food since it helps keep in moisture and flavor. Turn your chicken multiple times during cooking so that it cooks evenly.
- Frozen chicken should be thawed before cooking it. Never put meat on a cold grill, as it can cause it to stick. While you are grilling your chicken, baste the top side with oil or melted butter halfway through the cooking process, so that both sides are coated. You should never cook frozen meat for more than one hour.
How to grill chicken breast in an oven:
- An easier way to grill your chicken is by baking it in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes or until the meat’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 Celsius). This is a more convenient method, but some people prefer grilling on an outdoor barbecue because it enhances the flavor.
Time it takes to grill vs boil chicken breast
Boiling is the best method for cooking chicken, but it takes much less time than grilling. You will have perfectly cooked, moist meat if you boil your poultry for 15 to 20 minutes.
It takes about an hour to bake chicken in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit, but only 10 mins to boil. However, if you decide to grill chicken breast outside, it could take as long as 20 minutes per side for a total of 40 minutes. Therefore, boiling is the best method for cooking your meat because it takes much less time.
The general consensus on how long to grill chicken breast is that 20 to 30 mins is optimal, depending on the thickness of your meat. It takes about an hour to cook chicken in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. However, grilling for 10 to 20 minutes on each side is also effective.
Alex Kinoti is a New Mexico native with 6 years of professional barbecuing experience and three years working at Home Depot. He is the editor here at Lucky Bull Grill and when he is not testing and reviewing grills, smokies, and other kitchen appliances, he runs his own hotel consulting business. Having graduated from the Culinary Institue of America, he spends a significant amount of time providing best-in-class advisory to clients looking to set up hotel businesses. At home, Alex likes spending time with his small family of two boys and a loving wife. With his extensive experience as a chef and as a top-notch hotel industry consultant, Alex brings his knowledge and skills to provide readers with the best guides and reviews of the best grills and smokers.
You can reach Alex for consulting services using his email, alex@luckybullgrill.com.