How Long to Grill Thick Chicken Breast

Grill thick chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side over medium-high heat, then move to indirect heat and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). So let’s get started with detailed information.

What are Grilling Chicken Breasts?

Cooking thick chicken breasts on the grill can be challenging, even for experienced grillers. The key to grilling thick chicken breasts perfectly lies in understanding the grilling process, from preparation to the final resting period. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to ensure your grilled chicken breasts are juicy, flavourful, and cooked to perfection.

Why Grilling Thick Chicken Breasts Can Be Tricky

Thick chicken breasts pose a unique challenge on the grill. Unlike thinner cuts, thick chicken breasts need more cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked without drying out on the outside. Achieving the perfect balance of a well-cooked interior and a crispy, flavourful exterior requires a few essential techniques and a bit of patience.

Preparation: The Foundation of Great Grilled Chicken

Choosing the Right Chicken Breasts

Choosing good-quality chicken breasts is key for a tasty meal. Pick breasts that are the same size and thickness to cook evenly and avoid unevenly cooked parts.

Marinating or Seasoning

To make your grilled chicken breasts tastier and juicier, marinate them for at least 30 minutes. Use a ready-made marinade or mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for your own marinade. If you prefer to skip the marinade, a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and your favorite spices will do the trick.

Preheating the Grill

Before cooking, heat your grill to medium-high temperature, typically between 375°F and 450°F. A properly preheated grill ensures a good sear on the chicken breasts, locking in juices and creating a delicious crust.

How Long to Grill Thick Chicken Breast: Step-by-Step Process

Oiling the Grill Grates

Before you cook the chicken on the grill, grease the grates with oil to avoid sticking. Use a brush or tongs with an oil-soaked paper towel to lightly coat the grates.

Initial Sear

Put the chicken breasts on the grill and allow them to cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes on the first side to sear properly. This initial sear creates those beautiful grill marks and locks in the juices.

Flipping and Continued Grilling

Turn over the chicken breasts and grill them for another 6-8 minutes on the other side. Avoid moving the chicken around too much to maintain even cooking and prevent the loss of juices.

Indirect Heat for Thick Breasts

For very thick chicken breasts (over 1 inch), move them to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat to medium and cover the grill. Keep cooking for another 5-10 minutes. This gentler heat cooks the inside without burning the outside.

Checking for Doneness: Ensuring Safe and Delicious Chicken

Using a Meat Thermometer

To make sure the chicken is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast. It should read 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.

Visual and Textural Cues

In addition to temperature, look for clear juices when the chicken is pierced with a fork or knife. The meat should feel firm when touched, not dry or rubbery.

Resting: The Final Step

After cooking the chicken breasts, take them off the grill and let them sit for 5-10 minutes. This resting time helps the juices spread evenly in the meat, making the chicken breast more tender and flavourful.

Tips for How to Perfectly Grilled Thick Chicken Breasts

Maintaining Even Thickness

If your chicken breasts vary in thickness, use a meat mallet to flatten them to an even thickness or horizontally trim down the thicker end of the chicken breast to have an even surface area. This helps them cook evenly and prevents parts from drying out or being undercooked.

Basting for Extra Flavour

Brushing the chicken with marinade or sauce while grilling makes it tastier and keeps it juicy. Apply the sauce in the last few minutes to avoid burning.

Avoiding Overcooking

Overcooking is a common issue with thick chicken breasts. Keep a close eye on the chicken and take it off the grill as soon as it reaches the right internal temperature. Remember, the chicken will keep cooking a bit even after you take it off the grill.

Advanced Grilling Techniques for Thick Chicken Breasts

Brining for Juiciness

To make your grilled chicken juicier and tastier, soak it in a brine first. Mix 1/4 cup of salt and 1/4 cup of sugar in 4 cups of water. Leave the chicken in the brine for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours before grilling. Rinse the chicken well before grilling to remove excess salt.

Smoking for Extra Depth

To add a smoky taste to your chicken, use wood chips or a smoker box. Soak wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes. Put them in a smoker box or wrap them in foil with holes. Place this on the grill to let the smoke flavour the chicken while it cooks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Grilling Thick Chicken Breasts

Not Preheating the Grill

Not preheating your grill can lead to uneven cooking and less searing. Always heat your grill to the right temperature before putting the chicken on.

Overcrowding the Grill

Give the chicken breasts enough space to cook evenly. Putting too much chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature, which may cause uneven cooking and make the chicken steam instead of grill properly.

Ignoring Resting Time

Skipping the resting period can cause the juices to run out when the chicken is cut, resulting in dry meat. Always let the chicken rest before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Thick grilled chicken breasts are very versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Salads: Slice the grilled chicken and add it to a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Sandwiches: Serve the grilled chicken on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and a spread of your choice.
• Pasta: Cut the chicken into strips and toss it with pasta, roasted vegetables, and a creamy Alfredo or pesto sauce.
• Rice Bowls: Combine the chicken with rice, black beans, corn, and salsa for a hearty and nutritious meal.

Conclusion

Grilling thick chicken breasts perfectly is a skill you can learn with the right methods and practice. By using this guide, you’ll make sure your chicken is juicy, tasty, and safely cooked every time. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a summer barbecue, these tips and tricks will help you impress your guests with delicious grilled chicken breasts. Happy grilling!