BBQ Grilled Chicken

Let’s be honest: grilled chicken may not seem like the most exciting meat out there, but it’s affordable, crowd-pleasing and a snap to cook. So why not skip the burgers at your next barbecue and try this super-easy recipe instead? You won’t want to sleep on the sauce, which is a classic BBQ jazzed up with honey and lime. It's so flavorful, the chicken really doesn't need a marinade—which means you get to eat it way sooner. 

How long should I heat up the grill?

When grilling, you want to get those grates ripping hot before starting to cook. To get gorgeous grill marks and avoid dried out food, preheat your grill (gas or charcoal) for 10 to 15 minutes.

How long does chicken take to cook? 

It depends. For boneless skinless chicken breasts, you're looking at 8 to 10 minutes per side. For drumsticks, it'll be 10 to 15 minutes per side. This will allow for the chicken to get a bit of char and smokey flavor without overcooking it.

What temperature does the chicken need to be before I pull it from the grill?

According to USDA regulations, chicken must be cooked to an internal temperature of 165ºF. Insert a thermometer at the thickest part of the meat to get an accurate reading (and if you’re grilling bone-in chicken, don’t hit the bones when taking the temperature).

Do I really need to baste the chicken?

Yes! The first layer is important, but brushing the chicken with more of the sauce during cooking will lead to more caramelization and more of the sauce's flavor coating the chicken.

Hungry for more? Check out our 30+ grilled chicken recipes. Our Sweet Chili Lime Grilled Chicken is a must-try. And, if you've made this recipe, let us know how you like it in the comments below.