• Article Author: Salvatore Cesareo
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Grilling Tips – How To Perfectly Cook Chicken On A Grill

Salvatore Cesareo Profile

Summer is upon us and there is nothing like getting the grill going and enjoying some tender and juicy chicken fresh off of the fire.

Unfortunately so many suffer from burnt, dried out tough chicken that doesn't get to be enjoyed the way it was meant to be. So what is the answer to perfectly cook chicken on a grill? If you are the cook or you think mom or dad need a couple of  tips for juicy and more tender chicken this summer you may want to share a few of the following tips with them...

1. Prepping The Chicken

The key to perfectly cook chicken on a grill you starts before the grill is even hot. Marinating your chicken and seasoning it ahead of time will not only lock in amazing flavor but also help make it extra tender. Exactly what you use is up to you and what flavor you are in the mood for. Though beyond the traditional BBQ sauce you can experiment with all types of flavors from Caribbean jerk to margarita flavors. If you are in the mood from something new, fresh and fruity you will also discover that kiwi can be used to add a unique twist and naturally tenderizes meat.

In your effort to perfectly cook chicken on a grill you will also find it much easier it you either make a few slices in the thickest parts or at least cut any chicken breasts so that they have a more even thickness and cook evenly.

2. Getting The Grill Right

To perfectly cook chicken on a grill you will want a medium heat or it is going to end up burnt and dry on the edges. If you are going traditional with charcoal then even them out so the heat is even and you aren't panicking putting out fires or your guests are starving because it isn't cooked through evenly. You can also baste once the meat is sealed, though if you are going BBQ then you will want do most of this at the end so it doesn't burn.

3. Knowing When It's Done

There are 3 way to check when your chicken is done. To perfectly cook chicken on a grill and avoid it coming out like jerky or pink in the middle and getting your guests sick it should be cooked to 165 degrees. If you don't have a thermometer then you can also check the firmness. With your palm facing you, cross your thumb over until the tip is at the base of your pinky finger. Now feel the firmness in the meaty part of your thumb. When your chicken feels this firm to the touch it should be done. If you are trying perfectly cook chicken on a grill that has bones you can also take a piece and cut through the bone. If there still blood in the bone it needs more cooking time until it is brown.