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Grilled Chicken Recipe

Grilled Chicken Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

When summer arrives, the scent of grilling wafts through neighborhoods, hinting at gatherings around the barbecue. Grilled chicken is often at the forefront of these culinary happenings. It's versatile, delicious, and can be a healthier alternative to red meats. The joy of biting into moist, smoky chicken is a feeling that makes you question why you ever settled for mundane meals.
I remember our family cookouts when the grill was a staple. My dad would stand over the chicken, flipping pieces and teasing out flavors. He wasn’t a professional chef, but he knew chicken like the back of his hand. Based on those experiences, this article aims to be your guide to not just grilled chicken but to making it a centerpiece of every summer gathering.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 41
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 quarts cold water
  • ¼ cup white granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup coarse kosher salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ tsp sweet onion powder
  • ¼ tsp ground cayenne pepper
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp ground mustard

Method
 

  1. Now, let’s dive into the preparation.
Step 1: Brine the Chicken
  1. Start by preparing your brine. In a large pot, combine the cold water, sugar, and kosher salt. Stir until everything dissolves. Place the chicken pieces in the brine, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover the pot and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. If you have time, go for 4 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Rub
  1. While the chicken is brining, mix together all the dry rub ingredients in a bowl. This mixture is key. The smoked paprika adds depth while the cayenne introduces a gentle warmth.
Step 3: Pat Dry and Apply Rub
  1. Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a nice sear. Once dry, generously apply your dry rub over all the chicken pieces, making sure to coat them evenly.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
  1. Get your grill ready. If you have a charcoal grill, prepare your coals for direct heat. If using a gas grill, preheat to medium-high. You want the grill hot enough to sear the chicken, sealing in the flavors.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
  1. Once your grill reaches the right temperature, place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 6: Rest the Chicken
  1. After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute. If you cut into it too soon, you risk losing moisture, which is a rookie mistake.

Notes

Here are some pointers to elevate your grilled chicken:
  • Brine for Success: Do not skip the brine. It makes a marked difference in moisture.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures your chicken is safe to eat and cooked to perfection.
  • Let It Rest: Give the chicken a few minutes to rest before slicing. Patience pays off.
  • Experiment with Marinades: Don't hesitate to swap ingredients based on your flavor cravings.
Grill Vegetables alongside: Toss some vegetables on the grill. They harmonize well with your chicken and cook up beautifully alongside it.