How long do chicken breast cook on the grill? - ShiftyChevre (2025)

How Long Do Chicken Breasts Cook on the Grill?

When it comes to grilling chicken breasts, timing is crucial to ensure they’re cooked to perfection without drying out. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, understanding how long it takes for chicken breasts to cook on the grill can be the difference between a perfectly cooked meal and a disappointing snack.

Direct Answer: How Long Do Chicken Breasts Cook on the Grill?

The answer depends on several factors, including the size and thickness of the chicken breast, the heat level of the grill, and whether you’re cooking them with the bone or without. Here are some general guidelines:

• Bone-in, 6-8 ounce chicken breasts: 6-8 minutes per side, or 12-16 minutes total
• Boneless, 6-8 ounce chicken breasts: 4-6 minutes per side, or 8-12 minutes total
• Bone-in, larger chicken breasts: 8-12 minutes per side, or 16-24 minutes total
• Boneless, larger chicken breasts: 6-8 minutes per side, or 12-16 minutes total

However, these are just general guidelines, and you should always check the internal temperature of your chicken breasts to ensure they’re cooked safely and to your liking.

What to Check for When Chicken Breasts are Done

So, what exactly do you need to look for when determining if your chicken breasts are done? Here are some guidelines:

• Internal Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C), as recommended by the USDA. You can use a meat thermometer to check for this.
• Color: Cooked chicken breasts should be white and firm. If they’re pinkish or jelly-like, they may not be fully cooked.
• Texture: Press the chicken breasts gently with your finger or the flat side of a spatula. If they spring back, they’re cooked. If they feel soft or squishy, they’re not done.

**Tips for Grill Mastering Chicken Breasts

Now that we’ve covered the basics of grilling chicken breasts, here are some tips to help you perfect your technique:

• Preheat, Preheat, Preheat: Make sure your grill is preheated to the right temperature (medium-high to high heat is usually best for chicken breasts). This will help you achieve the desired sear and cooking time.
• Brine, Marinate, or Inject: Enhance the flavor and juiciness of your chicken breasts by marinating them in your favorite seasonings or injecting them with a flavorful mix.
• Oil Up: Grease the grates with a clean, oil-drenched towel or brush to prevent sticking. This will also help with food release when flipping.
• Don’t Crowded: Cook chicken breasts individually to prevent overcrowding on the grill. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to check for doneness.

Timing Table for Grilling Chicken Breasts

The following table provides a general guideline for the cooking time of chicken breasts on the grill based on their size and thickness. Remember, the internal temperature and doneness also play a crucial role in determining cook time.

Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect

Grilling chicken breasts on the grill can seem intimidating at first, but with practice and patience, you’ll become a master in no time. Keep in mind the factors discussed above, such as chicken breast size and thickness, heat level, and internal temperature. Follow the guidelines provided, and you’ll be able to achieve the perfect, juicy grilled chicken breasts for your next outdoor culinary adventure.

Additional Tips:

• Use a lid: Grilling with a lid will help retain heat and moisture, resulting in better cooking results.
• Don’t flip too much: Avoid flipping chicken breasts too frequently, as this can result in uneven cooking and dryness. 2-3 flips should do the trick.
• Let rest: After cooking, let your chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax.

By following these guidelines and practice, you’ll be able to achieve restaurant-quality grilled chicken breasts that’ll impress even the pickiest eaters. Happy grilling!