To cook chicken on a charcoal grill, follow these steps:
- Prepare the grill: Start by cleaning the grill grates thoroughly and then preheat the charcoal grill. Open the bottom dampers to allow air to flow and ignite the charcoal. Let the coals burn until they are covered with a layer of light gray ash.
- Season the chicken: While the grill is heating, season the chicken with your preferred marinade or dry rub. Ensure all sides of the chicken are evenly coated.
- Set up the grill: Once the coals are ready, carefully arrange them in a two-zone fire. Move the majority of the coals to one side of the grill, creating a hot zone, and leave the other side with fewer coals or empty for indirect cooking.
- Oil the grill grates: Take a paper towel, fold it, and dip it in oil. Use tongs to smear the oiled towel across the grates. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill.
- Start grilling: Place the chicken on the hot zone of the grill, directly over the coals. Cook with the lid open for a short time to sear the chicken and create grill marks. Then, close the lid and continue cooking.
- Monitor the temperature: To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, it's important to monitor its internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Flip and rotate: After a few minutes, flip the chicken using tongs to cook the other side evenly. If the chicken is browning too quickly or there are flare-ups, move it to the indirect zone to avoid burning.
- Baste and sauce: If you desire, during the last few minutes of cooking, you can baste the chicken with any additional marinade or sauce. Be cautious as sugary sauces can cause flare-ups.
- Rest and serve: Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat. Serve the grilled chicken hot.
Remember, grilling times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. It's essential to monitor the internal temperature regularly to avoid undercooking or overcooking. With practice, you'll become more familiar with the grill's temperature and the cooking times needed for deliciously grilled chicken.
Best Charcoal Grills of May 2024
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Royal Gourmet CC1830SC Charcoal Grill Offset Smoker with Cover, 811 Square Inches, Black, Outdoor Camping
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811 Square Inches: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker.
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Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly.
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Adjustable Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal.
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Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature and you can cook with great confidence.
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Grill Cover Included: Made of heavy-duty fabric, the cover protects your grill from elements and withstands the harshest weather.
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Ample Space: Front and side tables offer workspace for seasonings and grilling tools. The bottom shelf provides extra storage space and holds up to only 20 lb. accessories when they are evenly distributed.
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
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Stay true to the modern version of the kettle that started it all—the Original Kettle, invented by Weber’s founder, and loved around the world. Its ultra-durable, porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, while the damperseasily adjust for precise temperature control. With a One-Touch cleaning system for easy cleanup after a long day of grilling, the Original Kettle will always be the grill built for everyone
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Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press
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One-Touch cleaning system provides hassle-free ash cleanup.Removable, aluminum ash catcher
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Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl Retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
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Use the lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground while grilling
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Dampers allow you to easily control the temperature inside your grill
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3D interactive assembly instructions for this product are available through the free BILT app.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill, Black
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CHARCOAL GRILL - Barrel style BBQ Grill with heavy duty steel construction and powder coating finish, the perfect grilling solution for small decks, backyards, and patios
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LARGE COOKING AREA - 250 square inch total cooking area delivers exceptional taste and charcoal flavor
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BARBECUE GRILL FEATURES - Thick Cast Iron Cooking Grates, Bottom Storage Rack, Heavy-Duty Steel Construction, Side Air Vent, Stay Cool Wood Handle, Wheels for Easy Mobility, and Side Shelf Workstation with Barbecue Tool Storage Hooks
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EASY TO ASSEMBLE & CLEAN - Assembles easily and quickly cleans up after use with the Easy Dump Ash Pan
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Royal Gourmet CC1830 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, 627 Square Inches, Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black
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627 Smoking Space: 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates with 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack offer enough space to cook.
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Heat Control: Close the side air vent completely that cuts off the oxygen flow to help extinguish coals and adjust the smoke stack for extra heat control.
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Adjustable Fire Grates: 2-level height-adjustable fire pan ensures more controlled cooking and holds up to 6 lbs. of coal.
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Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check heat fluctuations for confident grilling.
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
Royal Gourmet CD1824M 24-Inch Charcoal Grill, BBQ Smoker with Handle and Folding Table, Perfect for Outdoor Patio, Garden and Backyard Grilling, Black, Medium
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Spacious Cooking Area: 384 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and 106 sq. in. stainless steel warming rack provide a total of 490 sq. in. cooking space respectively, serving up to 10 people.
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Height-adjustable Charcoal Pan: The crank handle controls the distance between the charcoal pan and food for fine-tuning temperature and regulating heat. The charcoal pan holds charcoal up to 4.5 lb. for each use.
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Convenient Access Door: Front charcoal access door with heat-resistant spring handle provides more convenience for adding charcoal and controls heat loss to a minimum during cooking.
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Built-in Thermometer Gauge: The lid-mounted thermometer indicates the temperature changes precisely in real-time.
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Air Flow: Two adjustable air vents control air circulation to enhance sufficient burning of charcoal for efficient smoking.
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Royal Gourmet Barrel Charcoal Grill with Front Storage Basket, Backyard BBQ Party and Outdoor Cooking Grill on Clearance Prime with Wheels, Black, CC1830T
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Additional Cooking Options: The charcoal grill can meet your versatile cooking demands by slow smoking or grilling ribs, veggies, lobster tails, or other preferred ingredients.
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Ample Cooking Area: To accommodate 23 hamburgers at once, there are 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates and a 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack as a secondary heating area.
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Impressive Storage: Store seasonings in the front basket, hang some cooking utensils on the integrated hooks, place plates and other food on the side tables, and meanwhile put your charcoal on the bottom storage shelf.
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Adjustable Charcoal Pan: Easily control the distance between food and fire with the lifting handle to regulate cooking temperature, which also saves fuel in the meantime.
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Heat Control: Customize your desired temperature by twisting the air damper and smoke stack, thus getting the best cooking results.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch, Black
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Holds up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press; Built-in lid thermometer. Rust-resistant aluminum dampers
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One-Touch cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
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Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
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Use the lid hook to avoid placing the lid on the ground while grilling
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Cooking grate is hinged for easily adding charcoal while grilling
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Royal Gourmet CC1830S 30" BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker | 811 Square Inch cooking surface, Outdoor for Camping | Black
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811 Square Inches: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated warming rack and 184 sq. in. offset smoker.
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Tasty Smoke Flavors: The offset smoker is firmly attached to grill to ensure good circulation of heat and smoke. Easy to open side door to add charcoal and remove ashes; air vent stokes fire instantly.
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Adjustable Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan creates better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lbs. of coal.
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Temperature Monitor: Lid-mounted thermometer gauge helps check and monitor the cooking temperature and you can cook with great confidence.
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Dyna-Glo DGN576SNC-D X-Large Premium Dual Chamber Charcoal Grill
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Removable firebox divider for single or dual cooking zone
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Primary cooking area is 576 square inches
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Secondary cooking area is 240 square inches
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Royal Gourmet CC1830W 30 Barrel Charcoal Grill with Side Table, 627 Square Inches, Outdoor Backyard, Patio and Parties, Black
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Spacious Cooking Area: Includes 443 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire cooking grates, 184 sq. in. chrome-plated steel wire warming rack, and 184 sq. in. offset smoker.
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Offset Smoker: Use the side fire box to get tasty and authentic smoky flavors in the main chamber. Smoking, grilling, or searing all will be your choices.
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Adjustable Charcoal Pan: 2-level height-adjustable charcoal pan ensures better heat control and holds up to 4.4 lb. of coal.
Should I marinate the chicken before grilling?
Marinating chicken before grilling can greatly enhance its flavor and tenderness. By marinating, the chicken is allowed to soak in a mixture of spices, herbs, acidic ingredients, and oils, which helps to break down connective tissues, infuse flavors, and create a more succulent and moist end result. Therefore, marinating chicken before grilling is generally recommended for a tastier and juicier outcome.
What is the ideal internal temperature to cook chicken on a charcoal grill?
The ideal internal temperature to cook chicken on a charcoal grill is 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat, while also ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
Can I baste the chicken while grilling?
Yes, you can baste the chicken while grilling. Basting refers to the process of brushing or pouring liquids, such as marinades, sauces, or juices, onto the chicken while it is cooking to add flavor and keep it moist. You can baste the chicken with a basting brush or by using a spray bottle. Just be sure to avoid excessive basting, as it can cause flare-ups or make the chicken skin too soggy.
Can I grill chicken with vegetables, and if so, how should I do it?
Yes, you can grill chicken with vegetables! Here's a simple guide on how to do it:
- Prepare the chicken: Start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of your choice. Common marinades include a combination of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or basil), salt, and pepper. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the vegetables: You can use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, onions, cherry tomatoes, or eggplant. Wash and chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even grilling.
- Preheat the grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure to clean the grill grates and oil them lightly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the chicken for grilling: Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture. Season the chicken with salt and pepper or any additional spice rub you prefer.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken pieces. Make sure to flip the chicken only once halfway through cooking.
- Grill the vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, you can grill the vegetables. Toss them in a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, or any desired seasoning. Place the vegetables in a grill pan or thread them onto skewers for easier grilling. Cook the vegetables for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked and the vegetables are grilled to your liking, remove them from the grill. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices. Arrange the grilled chicken and vegetables on a platter and enjoy!
Remember to always use proper grilling safety procedures and to check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken with veggies!
Can I grill chicken drumsticks and thighs together?
Yes, you can definitely grill chicken drumsticks and thighs together. In fact, they are often cooked together as they are similar in size and cooking time. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than drumsticks. It's also important to ensure that the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.
