Grilled chicken is a staple of summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings, but achieving perfectly cooked, juicy chicken can be a challenge. One of the most critical factors in grilling chicken is temperature, and cooking at 350°F is a popular choice for many grill enthusiasts. But how long does chicken take to grill at 350°F? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of grilled chicken, exploring the factors that affect cooking time, providing a detailed guide to cooking times, and offering expert tips for achieving mouth-watering results.
Understanding the Factors that Affect Cooking Time
Before we dive into the specifics of cooking time, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence how long chicken takes to grill. These factors include:
Chicken Type and Size
Different types of chicken have varying levels of fat, muscle, and bone density, which affect cooking time. For example:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are leaner and cook faster than bone-in, skin-on breasts.
- Thighs, with their higher fat content, take longer to cook than breasts.
- Wings and drumsticks, with their smaller size and higher bone-to-meat ratio, cook faster than larger cuts.
Marination and Seasoning
Marinating and seasoning can impact cooking time, as acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can help break down proteins and tenderize the meat. However, excessive marination can lead to overcooking, so it’s crucial to balance flavor and cooking time.
Grill Type and Temperature
The type of grill and temperature used can significantly affect cooking time. For example:
- Gas grills, with their consistent heat, cook chicken faster than charcoal grills, which can have hotspots and temperature fluctuations.
- Cooking at 350°F, a medium-low heat, is ideal for chicken, as it allows for even cooking and prevents burning.
Cooking Time Guide for Chicken at 350°F
Now that we’ve explored the factors that affect cooking time, let’s dive into the specifics. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cooking times for different types of chicken at 350°F:
Chicken Breasts
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts:
- 5-6 ounces: 12-15 minutes per side
- 6-8 ounces: 15-18 minutes per side
- 8-10 ounces: 18-20 minutes per side
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts:
- 5-6 ounces: 18-20 minutes per side
- 6-8 ounces: 20-22 minutes per side
- 8-10 ounces: 22-25 minutes per side
Chicken Thighs
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs:
- 4-5 ounces: 10-12 minutes per side
- 5-6 ounces: 12-15 minutes per side
- 6-8 ounces: 15-18 minutes per side
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs:
- 4-5 ounces: 15-18 minutes per side
- 5-6 ounces: 18-20 minutes per side
- 6-8 ounces: 20-22 minutes per side
Chicken Wings and Drumsticks
- Chicken wings:
- 2-3 ounces: 8-10 minutes per side
- 3-4 ounces: 10-12 minutes per side
- Chicken drumsticks:
- 2-3 ounces: 10-12 minutes per side
- 3-4 ounces: 12-15 minutes per side
Expert Tips for Achieving Perfectly Grilled Chicken
While cooking time is crucial, there are several expert tips to help you achieve mouth-watering, perfectly grilled chicken:
Preheat Your Grill
Preheating your grill to 350°F ensures even cooking and prevents hotspots. Make sure to preheat for at least 10-15 minutes before cooking.
Oil Your Grates
Oiling your grates prevents sticking and promotes even cooking. Use a paper towel dipped in oil to brush the grates before cooking.
Don’t Press Down
Resist the temptation to press down on the chicken with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the chicken dry.
Let it Rest
Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken at 350°F is an art that requires attention to detail and a understanding of the factors that affect cooking time. By following our comprehensive guide and expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to achieving perfectly grilled chicken that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to always prioritize food safety, and happy grilling!
| Chicken Type | Cooking Time (per side) |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (5-6 ounces) | 12-15 minutes |
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (5-6 ounces) | 18-20 minutes |
| Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (4-5 ounces) | 10-12 minutes |
| Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (4-5 ounces) | 15-18 minutes |
| Chicken wings (2-3 ounces) | 8-10 minutes |
| Chicken drumsticks (2-3 ounces) | 10-12 minutes |
Note: The cooking times listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on individual grill temperatures and chicken sizes. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What is the ideal internal temperature for grilled chicken cooked at 350°F?
The ideal internal temperature for grilled chicken cooked at 350°F is 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. It’s essential to use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking chicken breasts or thighs. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, avoiding any bones or fat.
Reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) may take some time, depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. It’s crucial to be patient and not rush the cooking process. If you’re unsure about the internal temperature, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and cook the chicken for a few more minutes. Remember, undercooked chicken can be a food safety risk, while overcooked chicken can be dry and tough.
How long does it take to grill chicken breasts at 350°F?
The cooking time for grilled chicken breasts at 350°F depends on the size and thickness of the breasts. On average, boneless, skinless chicken breasts take around 20-25 minutes to cook through, while bone-in breasts may take 30-35 minutes. It’s essential to flip the breasts halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
To ensure the chicken breasts are cooked through, check the internal temperature regularly. You can also check for visual cues, such as a golden-brown color and a firm texture. If you’re using a gas grill, you can close the lid to trap the heat and cook the chicken more evenly. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you may need to adjust the vents to control the temperature.
Can I grill chicken thighs at 350°F, and how long does it take?
Yes, you can grill chicken thighs at 350°F. In fact, chicken thighs are often more forgiving than breasts when it comes to grilling. The cooking time for chicken thighs at 350°F depends on the size and thickness of the thighs. On average, boneless, skinless chicken thighs take around 25-30 minutes to cook through, while bone-in thighs may take 35-40 minutes.
It’s essential to flip the thighs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. You can also check the internal temperature regularly to ensure the thighs are cooked through. Chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re using a gas grill, you can close the lid to trap the heat and cook the thighs more evenly.
How do I prevent grilled chicken from drying out at 350°F?
To prevent grilled chicken from drying out at 350°F, it’s essential to cook the chicken at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. Overcooking the chicken can cause it to dry out, so make sure to check the internal temperature regularly. You can also use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Another way to prevent grilled chicken from drying out is to marinate it before grilling. A marinade can help keep the chicken moist and add flavor. You can also brush the chicken with oil or melted butter during grilling to keep it moist. Finally, make sure to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.
Can I grill chicken wings at 350°F, and how long does it take?
Yes, you can grill chicken wings at 350°F. In fact, grilling is a great way to cook chicken wings, as it adds a smoky flavor and a crispy texture. The cooking time for chicken wings at 350°F depends on the size of the wings. On average, chicken wings take around 25-30 minutes to cook through, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
It’s essential to check the internal temperature of the wings regularly to ensure they are cooked through. Chicken wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also check for visual cues, such as a golden-brown color and a crispy texture. If you’re using a gas grill, you can close the lid to trap the heat and cook the wings more evenly.
How do I ensure even cooking when grilling chicken at 350°F?
To ensure even cooking when grilling chicken at 350°F, it’s essential to preheat the grill to the right temperature. You can use a thermometer to check the temperature of the grill. Once the grill is preheated, place the chicken on the grill and close the lid to trap the heat.
It’s also essential to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking. You can use a spatula or tongs to flip the chicken. If you’re using a gas grill, you can adjust the heat to ensure even cooking. If you’re using a charcoal grill, you can adjust the vents to control the temperature. Finally, make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken regularly to ensure it is cooked through.
Can I grill chicken at 350°F with the lid open or closed?
Both options are possible, but it depends on the type of grill you’re using and the type of chicken you’re cooking. If you’re using a gas grill, you can close the lid to trap the heat and cook the chicken more evenly. This is especially useful when cooking chicken breasts or thighs.
If you’re using a charcoal grill, you may need to adjust the vents to control the temperature. In this case, it’s often better to grill with the lid open to ensure airflow and prevent the buildup of smoke. However, if you’re cooking chicken wings or drumsticks, you can close the lid to trap the heat and cook them more evenly. Ultimately, the choice to grill with the lid open or closed depends on your personal preference and the type of grill you’re using.