Your Guide to the Best Chicken for Barbeque
What To Know
- Air-chilled chicken is cooled with cold air after processing, while water-chilled chicken is cooled in a water bath.
- Boneless chicken is easier to eat and is a good option for people who don’t like to eat around bones.
- Whether you prefer fresh or frozen, whole or in parts, organic or non-organic, free-range or cage-free, air-chilled or water-chilled, skin-on or skinless, bone-in or boneless, there’s a chicken out there that will make your BBQ a success.
Grilling season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a mouthwatering barbecue? The key to a successful BBQ lies in choosing the best chicken. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of chicken and select the perfect bird for your BBQ.
1. Fresh vs. Frozen
The first step is to decide whether you want fresh or frozen chicken. Fresh chicken has a shorter shelf life and must be cooked within a few days of purchase. Frozen chicken, on the other hand, can be stored for several months and is often more affordable. If you’re planning to grill your chicken within a few days, fresh is the way to go. For longer storage, frozen chicken is a great option.
2. Whole Chicken vs. Parts
Another decision to make is whether you want a whole chicken or just parts. Whole chickens are more economical and can be cooked in a variety of ways, but they take longer to grill. Chicken parts, such as breasts, thighs, and drumsticks, cook faster but may be more expensive. Consider the size of your group and the amount of time you have when making your choice.
3. Organic vs. Non-Organic
Organic chicken is raised without antibiotics or hormones and is often fed a diet of organic feed. Non-organic chicken is raised with conventional methods and may contain antibiotics or hormones. Organic chicken is generally more expensive than non-organic chicken, but many people believe it is worth the extra cost for the potential health benefits.
4. Free-Range vs. Cage-Free
Free-range chicken is raised in outdoor pens where they have access to fresh air and sunlight. Cage-free chicken is raised in indoor pens, but they have more space than chickens raised in cages. Free-range chicken is typically more expensive than cage-free chicken, but it may have a better flavor and texture.
5. Air-Chilled vs. Water-Chilled
Air-chilled chicken is cooled with cold air after processing, while water-chilled chicken is cooled in a water bath. Air-chilled chicken has a drier surface, which can result in a crispier skin when grilled. Water-chilled chicken has a wetter surface, which can make it more difficult to get a crispy skin.
6. Skin-On vs. Skinless
Skin-on chicken has a richer flavor and juicier meat than skinless chicken. However, skinless chicken is easier to grill and has fewer calories. If you’re looking for a crispy skin, choose skin-on chicken. If you’re looking for a healthier option, choose skinless chicken.
7. Bone-In vs. Boneless
Bone-in chicken has more flavor than boneless chicken, but it takes longer to cook. Boneless chicken is easier to eat and is a good option for people who don’t like to eat around bones. Consider the cooking time and your personal preferences when making your choice.
Key Points: Your Perfect BBQ Chicken
With so many factors to consider, choosing the best chicken for BBQ can be a challenge. By following the tips in this guide, you can narrow down your options and select the perfect chicken for your next grilling adventure. Whether you prefer fresh or frozen, whole or in parts, organic or non-organic, free-range or cage-free, air-chilled or water-chilled, skin-on or skinless, bone-in or boneless, there’s a chicken out there that will make your BBQ a success.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What is the best way to grill chicken?
A: The best way to grill chicken is to use indirect heat. This means cooking the chicken over low heat, away from the direct flame. This will help to prevent the chicken from burning and allow it to cook evenly.
Q: What temperature should I grill chicken to?
A: The internal temperature of grilled chicken should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Q: How long should I grill chicken?
A: The grilling time for chicken will vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken. A whole chicken will typically take longer to grill than chicken parts. As a general rule, grill chicken for about 10 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.