Grilling Chicken: How Much Time Does It Take?

If you’re like most grilling enthusiasts, you’ve probably asked yourself at some point, “How long do I grill chicken?” Chicken can be easy to overcook, and for safety reasons, it’s crucial to cook it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), as recommended by health authorities. Anything below that, and you and your guests could risk foodborne illness. (By the way, chicken is the number one culprit for foodborne illness in the U.S., so vigilance is key!) But just like trying to figure out the perfect ripeness for an avocado (one minute it’s perfect, then suddenly it’s overripe), grilling the perfect chicken isn’t always easy.

If you’re unsure how long to grill chicken breasts, thighs, or even a whole chicken, knowing when to take it off the grill can be tricky. To help you out, check out our chicken grilling guide below for tips on how long to grill different cuts for juicy, tender results.

Quick Guide to Grilling Chicken

Before we answer the question, “How long do you grill chicken?” here’s a beginner’s guide to preparing the chicken and your grill:

• Start with chilled raw poultry. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge in a tray or container (like a roasting pan), preferably with a lid.

• If necessary, remove the skin from the poultry.

• Refer to the list below to decide whether direct or indirect grilling is best for your chicken cuts.

• If using a charcoal grill, place the poultry on the grill with the bone side up (if bone-in) directly over medium heat. (Here’s how to control your charcoal grill temperature.) Cover the grill, cooking for the recommended time or until it reaches the proper internal temperature. Flip the meat halfway through.

• If using a gas grill, preheat it, then adjust the heat to medium. Place the chicken on the grill with the bone side down (if bone-in) over medium heat. Cover the grill and follow the grilling times in the chicken grilling instructions below.

• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For the most accurate and quick results, we recommend an instant-read thermometer. The temperature should range from 165°F to 175°F, depending on the type of chicken. During the last 5 to 10 minutes of grilling, brush on some sauce.

• Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and cover it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to redistribute the juices.

How Long to Grill Chicken?

The grilling time for chicken breasts is different from that for chicken thighs or drumsticks. So, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer for how long to grill chicken. Instead, here’s a guideline based on the different cuts.

How Long to Grill Chicken Breasts?

We know this is probably the chicken you’ve got in your fridge, so let’s start here:

• Cut and Piece: Boneless, skinless chicken breast

• Weight: 6 to 8 ounces

• Heat Level: Medium

• Grill Time: 15 to 18 minutes

• Internal Temperature: 165°F

How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs?

This dark meat is gaining popularity, so it’s important to know how to grill it right. Check out some of our healthy chicken thigh recipes too!

• Cut and Piece: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• Weight: 4 to 5 ounces

• Heat Level: Medium

• Grill Time: 12 to 15 minutes

• Internal Temperature: 170°F

How Long to Grill Bone-In Chicken Thighs, Chicken Breasts, and Other Cuts?

Bone-in cuts and larger pieces are better suited for indirect grilling.

• Cut and Piece: Bone-in chicken breast, thighs, or drumsticks

• Weight: Total weight 2.5 to 3 pounds

• Heat Level: Medium

• Grill Time: 50 to 60 minutes

• Internal Temperature: Chicken breast 170°F, thighs and drumsticks 175°F

How Long to Grill a Whole Chicken?

Indirect grilling is most commonly used for whole chickens. Place the whole chicken breast-side up on the grill and follow the time instructions below.

• Cut and Piece: Whole chicken

• Weight: Total weight 2.5 to 3 pounds

• Heat Level: Medium

• Grill Time: 60 to 75 minutes (For a bird over 3 pounds, add 15 to 30 minutes per pound. So, a 4.5 to 5-pound chicken should grill for 1.75 to 2 hours.)

• Internal Temperature: 170°F

Now that you know how long to grill chicken, all that’s left to do is get your grilling tools ready, pick your next mouthwatering chicken recipe, fire up the grill, and enjoy some perfectly juicy, tender grilled chicken that could rival anything from your favorite restaurant!