It’s summer in Freehold New Jersey, which means warm temperatures, sunny skies and plenty of barbecues! Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned enthusiast, mastering the art of grilling chicken at home is a skill worth succeeding at. And now that it’s the time of year when grilling is the preferred cooking method, you’ll want to know how to prepare the mouthwatering goodness you and your guests deserve!
Below are some tips on how to prepare grilled chicken at home in Freehold NJ.
For successful grilling, you’ll need to select the right cuts of chicken. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like drumsticks, thighs or chicken quarters. These cuts are ideal for grilling because they retain moisture better, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken. If you prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts, it’s best to marinate them to enhance moisture and prevent dryness.
Before grilling, prepare the chicken by patting it dry with paper towels. This helps ensure proper browning and prevents excessive steam during cooking. Season the chicken with salt, pepper and any other seasonings you like. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite marinade for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
Preheating the grill is essential to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F. If you plan on using a charcoal grill, give the coals some time to reach the desired temperature and develop a white ash coating before placing the chicken on the grates.
To prevent sticking, oil the grill grates before placing the chicken on them. Dip a folded paper towel in vegetable oil and rub it lightly over the grates using a pair of tongs. This creates a nonstick surface and gives grilled chicken those beautiful grill marks.
Place the chicken on the preheated grill, skin side down if using skin-on pieces. Close the lid and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken pieces. Since chicken can vary in thickness, it’s best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. For bone-in cuts, you may need to cook them longer until the meat near the bone is fully cooked.
While optional, your chicken will taste better if you add barbecue sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of grilling. Apply the sauce sparingly and turn the chicken frequently to prevent burning. This adds a delicious caramelized flavor and a beautiful glaze to the grilled chicken. You can buy a bottle of sauce or use inspiration from one of these homemade sauce recipes.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, giving the chicken a more tender taste and flavor. Serve the chicken hot, and feel free to add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon. And don’t forget the side dishes! Chicken pairs well with vegetables, potatoes and cornbread.
When you want a delicious dinner at home, bust out the grill and cook some chicken! By following these step-by-step guidelines, you’ll be able to achieve perfectly grilled chicken with the best smoky flavors and a satisfying char! La Rosa Chicken and Grill also has a convenient location in Freehold NJ where you can order crispy, grilled or rotisserie chicken, along with freshly prepared sides!