Intro
Table of Contents
- 1 Intro
- 2 The Best Chicken Grilling Method: How to Grill Chicken Like a Pro
- 3 Choose the Right Chicken Cuts for Grilling
- 4 The Importance of Marinades and Seasoning for Grilled Chicken
- 5 Essential Grilling Tools for Perfectly Grilled Chicken
- 6 The Chicken Grilling Method: Step-by-Step Guide
- 7 Chicken Grilling Tips for the Perfect BBQ
- 8 Grilled Chicken Recipe Ideas
- 9 Conclusion: Perfect Your Chicken Grilling Method
Grilling chicken is an art that combines precision, flavor, and a little bit of patience. Whether you’re a seasoned BBQ master or someone just beginning to dive into the world of grilling, the perfect grilled chicken can be elusive if you don’t have the right tools, seasonings, and techniques.
In this comprehensive guide to the Chicken Grilling Method, we’ll explore everything from the best grilling tools and seasonings to tips and tricks that will help you achieve tender, juicy, and perfectly grilled chicken every time.
The Best Chicken Grilling Method: How to Grill Chicken Like a Pro
The secret to perfect grilled chicken is a combination of preparation, proper seasoning, and the right grilling technique. Follow these steps to grill chicken that is flavorful, juicy, and tender on the inside with that beautiful charred exterior.
Choose the Right Chicken Cuts for Grilling
The first step in the chicken grilling method is selecting the right cuts. Different cuts of chicken offer different grilling experiences, so it’s essential to choose based on your preference and what you want to achieve with your grill.
Bone-In vs. Boneless Chicken:

Bone-In: Chicken with the bone, such as drumsticks, thighs, or wings, tends to retain moisture better, resulting in juicier meat. The bone also adds flavor.
Boneless: Boneless chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster but can dry out easily if not handled correctly.
Whole Chicken or Chicken Pieces:
A whole chicken can be grilled using indirect heat, while chicken pieces can be grilled over direct heat for quicker cooking.
Chicken Wings and Drumsticks:
These cuts are ideal for grilling. The G.a HOMEFAVOR Chicken Leg Wing Rack is an excellent tool to keep these cuts upright, allowing for even cooking and reducing the mess of grilling them individually.
The Importance of Marinades and Seasoning for Grilled Chicken
Seasoning is essential to enhancing the flavor of your grilled chicken. The right marinade can tenderize the meat, infuse it with flavor, and help maintain juiciness. Here are some excellent options to consider:

McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning:
A classic favorite, this seasoning blend is perfect for bringing out the natural flavors of your chicken. With a blend of garlic, onion, black and red pepper, and paprika, it creates the ideal balance of heat and flavor.
Riega Street Taco Grill Seasoning:
For a unique twist, try the Jalapeno Citrus Chicken Seasoning for a zesty kick with a citrusy flair. This is a great option for those who like their grilled chicken with a touch of spice.
McCormick Grill Mates Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning:
If you prefer a spicy and bold flavor, the Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning will add the right amount of heat and flavor to your chicken.
Homemade Marinades:
You can also create your own marinades using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices. A good marinade will tenderize the chicken while imparting a deep, rich flavor.
Essential Grilling Tools for Perfectly Grilled Chicken
Having the right tools can make a significant difference when grilling chicken. Here are some must-have items to ensure your chicken comes out perfectly cooked:

Poultry Shears for Cutting Chicken:
Heavy Duty Poultry Shears are indispensable for cutting through chicken bones and preparing the meat for the grill. Whether you’re preparing whole chickens or cutting through thighs and wings, having sharp, sturdy kitchen scissors will make your life much easier.
For example, the Poultry Shears Heavy Duty Kitchen Scissors are spring-loaded, providing extra leverage when cutting through tough meat and bones. Their anti-slip handles and safety lock make them safe and easy to use.
Chicken Leg Rack for Even Grilling:
If you’re grilling chicken legs or wings, a Chicken Leg Wing Grill Rack such as the G.a HOMEFAVOR Chicken Leg Wing Rack or the CASEMATIX Chicken Leg Rack can help you cook the meat evenly. These racks hold the chicken upright, ensuring even cooking and crisping without the mess of traditional grilling.
Dredge Shakers for Even Seasoning:
Use dredge shakers like the CUSINIUM Metal Salt Pepper Dredge Shakers or the New Star Foodservice Plastic Dredge to apply seasonings evenly over your chicken. These shakers are especially useful for evenly distributing dry rubs, spices, and seasonings across the chicken before grilling.
Basting Brush:
A basting brush is an essential tool for applying marinades, sauces, or oils to your chicken while grilling. This will ensure that your chicken remains moist and flavorful during the cooking process.
Meat Thermometer:
A meat thermometer is crucial for checking the internal temperature of your chicken, ensuring that it reaches a safe 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.
The Chicken Grilling Method: Step-by-Step Guide
Grilling chicken may seem simple, but there’s a method to it that ensures juicy, flavorful results. Follow these steps to grill chicken like a pro:

Prepare the Chicken:
Start by trimming the chicken of any excess fat or skin. If you’re working with bone-in cuts, use your poultry shears to remove any extra parts that may affect even grilling.
If you’re marinating, make sure to do so for at least 30 minutes (ideally a few hours) to allow the flavors to infuse into the meat.
Preheat the Grill:
Whether you’re using a charcoal grill or a gas grill, always preheat the grill for at least 10-15 minutes before placing your chicken on it. For indirect grilling, set up two zones: a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for cooking the chicken through.
Grill Over Direct or Indirect Heat:
For bone-in chicken like thighs or drumsticks, start by grilling over indirect heat to cook them through. Move them to direct heat to get those beautiful grill marks and crisp the skin.
Boneless chicken (like chicken breasts) can be cooked over direct heat for faster cooking, but be careful not to overcook.
Monitor Internal Temperature:
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken. Ensure that the thermometer doesn’t touch the bone for an accurate reading.
Rest Before Serving:
After removing the chicken from the grill, allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps retain juices and ensures that the meat is moist and tender.
Chicken Grilling Tips for the Perfect BBQ

Avoid Overcooking:
Chicken can dry out quickly, especially boneless breasts. To avoid this, always monitor the temperature closely and err on the side of undercooking slightly. You can always cook it a little longer after checking the internal temperature.
Use a Drip Tray for Clean Grilling:
For grilled chicken wings or legs, use a drip tray under the grill rack to catch any excess fat and juices. This will help keep the grill clean and prevent flare-ups that can burn your chicken.
Season Generously:
Don’t be shy with the seasonings. Generously apply your seasoning rub or marinade before grilling, ensuring an even coat on all sides of the chicken.
Experiment with Wood Chips for Added Flavor:
For added flavor, try using wood chips such as hickory or applewood for a smokier taste. Just place them in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil with holes before putting them on the grill.
Grilled Chicken Recipe Ideas
Here are a few simple yet delicious ideas for grilling chicken:
Classic BBQ Grilled Chicken:
Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and your favorite BBQ sauce. Grill over indirect heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, then brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for that sticky, caramelized finish.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken:
A simple marinade of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary creates a refreshing and aromatic flavor profile for grilled chicken. Perfect for boneless chicken breasts or thighs.
Spicy Grilled Chicken:
For those who love heat, marinate your chicken in a mixture of hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and lime juice. This spicy marinade will bring a fiery kick to your grilled chicken.
Citrus and Herb Grilled Chicken Wings:
Season chicken wings with a blend of citrus zest (lemon, lime, and orange) and fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley. These flavors are bright and aromatic, making them a hit at any BBQ party.

Conclusion: Perfect Your Chicken Grilling Method
Grilling chicken is an incredibly rewarding experience that can be perfected with the right tools, techniques, and seasonings. Whether you’re using poultry shears to prepare your cuts, applying the McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning for a classic flavor, or using a Chicken Leg Rack for perfect grilling, you can’t go wrong when you follow these methods. With a little practice, you’ll master the art of grilling chicken and impress your guests with every juicy bite.