Get perfectly juicy chicken on the inside and stunning grill marks on the outside with this no-fail recipe. You need boneless, skinless chicken breast, a few seasonings, and a grill (or grill pan!).
The key to perfectly cooked grilled chicken: the internal temperature. Make sure to grill until it reaches around 160ºF in the thickest spot.
Grilled chicken is a summer staple in our house. Heck, even in the dead of winter when it’s snowing, we’re making grilled chicken breast (I have photo and video to prove it)!.
My go-to recipe involves chicken breasts, a few seasonings, and grilling chicken over direct heat at around 400ºF until the internal temperature reaches 160ºF.
Grilling boneless chicken breast is a quick and healthy way to get dinner on the table. When cooked properly boneless chicken breast is juicy tender and full of flavor. However, it can easily dry out and become tough if overcooked. So how long should you grill boneless chicken breast to achieve the best results?
Understanding Boneless Chicken Breast
It’s easy to grill boneless chicken breast, which is a popular choice. Here are some key things to know:
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It cooks faster than chicken breast with the bone in because the bone is gone, letting heat reach all sides.
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Without the bone, it can dry out more easily. Take care not to overcook.
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Pound thicker breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
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Allow time to marinate for enhanced moisture and flavor.
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Lean and low in fat but high in protein – about 25g per 4oz serving.
Factors That Affect Grill Time
A few things can change how long a boneless chicken breast needs to cook on the grill:
Thickness
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Thinner cuts cook faster, while thicker pieces require more time.
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For 1-inch thick chicken breasts, plan on 12-16 minutes total time.
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1/2 inch thick may only need 6-8 minutes total grill time.
Bone vs Boneless
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Bone-in will take longer since the bone partially shields the meat.
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For bone-in chicken breasts allow 18-24 minutes for 1.5 inch thickness.
Marinating
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Marinating adds moisture and flavor. It does not significantly impact cook time.
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For best flavor, marinate at least 30 minutes up to overnight.
Grill Temperature
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Cook over direct medium-high heat between 400-450°F.
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Preheating ensures the chicken sears and cooks evenly.
Step-by-Step Grilling Process
Follow these steps for perfectly grilled boneless chicken breast:
1. Prepare the Chicken
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Thick breasts should be pounded until they are an even 1/2 inch or 1 inch thick. This promotes even cooking.
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Marinate for 30 minutes up to overnight in the fridge. Try oil, yogurt or vinegar-based marinades.
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Pat chicken dry before grilling to help it sear.
2. Preheat and Oil the Grill
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Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to 400-450°F.
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Oil grates to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken
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Place breasts on hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
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Flip only once during cooking for best results.
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Move chicken to cooler side of grill if cooking too fast.
4. Check for Doneness
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Use an instant read thermometer to check temperature.
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Chicken is safely cooked at 165°F.
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Cut into thickest part to check juices run clear.
5. Allow to Rest
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Let chicken rest 5 minutes before serving.
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This allows juices to redistribute for a moist, tender result.
Grilling Tips for Juicy Chicken Breasts
Follow these tips for foolproof, juicy grilled chicken breasts:
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Don’t crowd the grill – leave space between pieces.
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Resist flipping frequently; just once is enough.
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Apply sauce glaze in last 5 minutes if using.
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Allow 5-10 minutes carryover cooking after removing from grill.
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Check larger pieces at thickest point for doneness.
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Use tongs vs. piercing meat to flip and remove chicken.
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Create grill marks by placing diagonally to grates after searing.
Common Grilling Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls when grilling boneless chicken breast:
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Not preheating grill sufficiently.
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Grilling too many pieces at once.
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Constant flipping which leads to dryness.
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Applying sauce too early which can burn.
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Undercooking chicken and not checking temperature.
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Overcooking by neglecting carryover cooking.
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Forgetting to allow chicken to rest before cutting.
Perfectly grilled boneless chicken breast starts with proper technique. Allow 1-inch thick breasts to cook for 12-16 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check for doneness at 165°F and let rest before serving. With the right prep and grilling process, you’ll achieve tender, juicy boneless chicken breast packed with smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I grill a 1-inch thick boneless chicken breast?
For a 1-inch thick boneless chicken breast, grill approximately 12-16 minutes total time, flipping halfway through.
What temperature should I cook boneless chicken breast on the grill?
Cook over direct medium-high heat between 400-450°F for the best results.
Can I grill frozen boneless chicken breast?
It’s best to thaw chicken breasts fully before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Is marinating required for grilling chicken breast?
Marinating isn’t required but recommended. It adds moisture and flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
How do I prevent dry chicken breast when grilling?
Pound to an even thickness, marinate, grill at proper temperature, don’t overcook, and let rest before slicing.
How long does cook chicken last?
The best way to store grilled chicken breast is to let it cool down completely before putting it in the fridge. This way, the moisture won’t condense.
So, let it cool down, put the leftovers in a container that won’t let air in, and put it in the fridge for three to five days.
How do you prevent your chicken from sticking to the grill?
We recommend spraying your grill grates with nonstick cooking spray right before before cooking. Alternatively, you can use a piece of tin foil with nonstick cooking spray.
We swear by using a meat thermometer when cooking any cut of meat. The Thermapen is our go-to meat thermometer that works every time.
