Grill Your Way to Juicy Grilled Chicken Perfection with Butcher BBQ

Grilled Chicken Breast Foundation Starts When Shopping

Grilled chicken breast is a staple in many households, but achieving that perfect balance of juicy tenderness and delectable char can be a bit of a challenge. As a two-time World BBQ Champion and Hall of Fame inductee, I've perfected the art of grilling chicken to mouthwatering perfection. In this blog post, I'll share my Butcher BBQ secrets to help you master the grill and serve up the best grilled chicken breast your family and friends have ever tasted.

Selecting the Right Chicken

The foundation of a great grilled chicken breast starts with choosing the right poultry. When shopping for chicken, look for breasts that are plump, firm, and have a vibrant pink or white color. Avoid any that appear discolored, slimy, or have an off odor – these are signs of freshness issues.

It's also important to consider the source of your chicken. Opt for high-quality, locally sourced birds whenever possible. These are more likely to be fresher and raised in a humane environment. If you have the opportunity, chat with your butcher or grocer about their chicken sourcing practices to ensure you're getting the best product.

Preparation Techniques

Once you've selected your chicken, it's time to start the preparation process. The key to juicy, flavorful grilled chicken breast is brining. This simple step helps the meat retain moisture and infuses it with delicious seasonings.

For my Butcher BBQ brine, you'll need:

• 1 cup warm water
• 1/4 cup Butcher BBQ Brine Mix
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Combine the ingredients in our large resealable bag or non-reactive container. Add your chicken breasts, making sure they are fully submerged. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours, depending on the thickness of the meat.

After brining, remove the chicken from the liquid and pat it dry with paper towels. Next, generously apply my Butcher BBQ Honey Rub all over the surface of the meat. This sweet and savory blend of spices will create a mouthwatering crust as the chicken grills.

Grilling Techniques

When it comes to grilling chicken breast, there are a few key techniques to keep in mind. First, you'll want to set up your grill for a combination of direct and indirect heat. Start by searing the chicken over direct, high-heat flames to get that beautiful char. Then, move the breasts to the indirect side of the grill to finish cooking through without burning the outside.

Be sure to keep a close eye on the chicken, as the sugars in the honey rub can cause it to brown quickly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, which you can check with a reliable Digital Meat Thermometer. This ensures the chicken is cooked through without drying it out.

Step-by-Step Grilling Guide

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, setting up for both direct and indirect cooking zones.
2. Remove the chicken breasts from the brine and pat them dry with paper towels.
3. Generously apply the Butcher BBQ Honey Rub to all sides of the chicken.
4. Place the seasoned chicken breasts over the direct, high-heat area of the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until you achieve a nice char.
5. Move the chicken to the indirect heat zone of the grill. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Transfer the grilled chicken breasts to a clean cutting board and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips and Tricks

• Brine the chicken for at least 2-3 hours, but no more than 4 hours, for best results.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through, but be careful not to overcook.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Serve the grilled chicken breast with your favorite Butcher BBQ sauces, rubs, or brisket injections for an extra flavor boost.

With these Butcher BBQ tips and techniques, you'll be grilling up the juiciest, most flavorful chicken breasts your family and friends have ever tasted. Enjoy the compliments and the delicious results of your hard work!