How to BBQ Chicken on a Weber Grill for Perfectly Juicy and Flavorful Results

Barbecuing chicken on a Weber grill can lead to incredibly delicious results when done right, But it can also quickly go wrong and dry out or burn the chicken if you’re not careful,

As both a longtime Weber grill owner and avid grilling enthusiast, I’ve learned a lot over the years about how to properly prep, cook, and grill chicken so it turns out mouthwateringly juicy, tender, and flavorful every time.

This guide has all the best tips and tricks I know for grilling chicken on a Weber gas, charcoal, or other model fireplace grill.

Choosing the Right Weber Grill for BBQ Chicken

Step one is to choose the best Weber grill for grilling chicken based on your needs and tastes. Here are some of the top options:

• Gas grills – Weber’s Spirit, Genesis, and Summit gas grills are excellent choices for BBQ chicken. They heat up quickly and allow you to precisely control the temperature.

• Charcoal grills – For that true barbecue flavor, charcoal models like the Weber Kettle or Ranch offer great smoky flavor. They take a bit more effort but are worth it.

• Electric grills—Small electric grills, like the Weber Q, are useful for places with limited space. They simplify the heating process.

• Portable grills – Tailgating or camping? Weber’s portable grills like the Weber Go-Anywhere let you enjoy BBQ chicken anywhere.

Consider factors like convenience, flavor, and budget to select the right grill for you.

Prepping the Chicken for the Grill

Proper prep is key to juicy, well-cooked chicken. Here are some tips:

• Choose cuts with bones—Chicken breasts, thighs, and drumsticks are all good choices for bone-in cuts. The bones help keep meat moist.

• Leave the skin on – Chicken skin protects the meat and keeps it from drying out. Crisp up the skin for added flavor.

• Marinate the chicken – Soak chicken in a marinade for added juiciness. Try herb, lemon, or yogurt-based marinades.

• Pat chicken dry – Dry off excess marinade from chicken. This helps get an initial sear to lock in juices.

• Use a rub or seasoning – Coat chicken in a savory spice rub. Try smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

• Let it rest – Let chicken sit at room temperature 30 minutes before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.

Setting Up the Grill for BBQ Chicken

Proper grill setup and temperature control are imperative for barbecue chicken. Follow these steps:

• Preheat thoroughly – Heat your Weber grill for 15-20 minutes on medium-high until it reaches 450-500°F.

• Create dual heat zones – Set up direct and indirect heat areas. Use direct high heat for searing and indirect low heat for cooking through.

• Clean and oil grates – Clean grates with a grill brush and coat with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.

• Use a meat thermometer – Insert a digital thermometer in the thickest part of chicken breasts and thighs to monitor doneness.

Grilling the Chicken on the Weber Grill

Once your grill is preheated and set up, it’s time to start grilling:

• Sear the chicken – Place chicken skin-side down over direct high heat. Sear for 4-5 minutes until golden brown.

• Move to indirect heat – Shift chicken to indirect low heat, close lid, and grill approximately 15-25 minutes until 165°F internal temperature.

• Flip halfway – Flip chicken halfway through grill time to cook evenly on both sides.

• Baste with sauce – During last 5 minutes, baste chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce for added flavor.

• Let rest before serving – Remove chicken from grill and let rest 5-10 minutes so juices redistribute.

Helpful Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Keep these tips in mind for the best barbecue chicken:

Tips:

• Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken every time

• Baste chicken during the last few minutes only to avoid burning

• Allow chicken to rest before slicing for juicier meat

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Putting cold chicken straight onto a hot grill

• Grilling with too much direct heat the entire time

• Cutting into chicken immediately instead of allowing it to rest

• Grilling too many pieces at once overcrowding the grill

Follow these guidelines and you’ll be rewarded with incredibly moist, flavorful barbecued chicken off your Weber grill that your family and friends will love. Happy grilling!