If you’ve ever ended up with dry, rubbery chicken, you’re not alone. Learning how to grill chicken breasts can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be.
This simple guide will show you exactly how to grill chicken breasts so they turn out juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time.
Mexican Grilled Chicken
The Secret to Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast
The secret? Not overcooking and letting it rest.
Pulling it off the grill right at 165°F keeps it juicy instead of dry and letting it rest after it cooks allows the juices to redistribute for tender chicken.
Step-by-Step: How to Grill Chicken Breast
- Prep the Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400–450°F).
- Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and pound it to even thickness.
- Add Flavor: Season or marinate (see section below for ideas).
- Grill: Oil the grill grates, and grill the pieces for 5–7 minutes per side depending on thickness (see chart below).
- PRO TIP: Don’t move the chicken once you place it on the grill!
- Flip Once: Flip the chicken and cook to an internal temp of 165°F, use a meat thermometer.
- Rest: Remove from the grill and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Crispy Grilled Pesto Chicken
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast
Chicken breasts take an average of 8–14 minutes total on a grill over medium-high heat, depending on thickness.
| Thickness | Time | Temp |
|---|
| Thin (½ inch thick) | 8-10 minutes | 165°F |
| Normal (1 inch thick) | 10-14 minutes | 165°F |
| Thick (1 ½ inch thick) | 14-18 minutes | 165°F |
| | |
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