How to Make Chicken on the Big Green Egg

Are you ready to learn how to make mouthwatering chicken on the Big Green Egg? Look no further!

In this article, we will guide you through each step of the process, from choosing the right chicken cut to grilling it to perfection.

With our simple and detailed instructions, you’ll be able to impress your friends and family with delicious, juicy chicken every time.

So, grab your apron and let’s get started!

Choosing the Right Chicken Cut

When grilling chicken on the Big Green Egg, it’s crucial to select the right cut for optimal results. The choice of chicken cut can greatly affect the flavor and tenderness of the meat. There are several cuts to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics.

One popular option is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are perfect for those looking for a lean and healthy option. However, they can be prone to drying out if not cooked properly. To prevent this, it’s important to marinate the chicken breasts before grilling them. This will help to add moisture and enhance the flavor.

Another option is bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These are known for their rich and juicy meat. The bone-in thighs provide extra flavor while the skin helps to keep the meat moist during cooking. To ensure that the skin becomes crispy, it’s recommended to grill the thighs skin-side down first and then flip them halfway through the cooking process.

Lastly, chicken wings are a popular choice for grilling. They are small and easy to handle, making them perfect for parties or casual gatherings. To achieve crispy wings with a smoky flavor, it’s best to use indirect heat on the Big Green Egg. This allows the wings to cook evenly and avoids any flare-ups from the dripping fat.

Preparing the Marinade

When it comes to preparing the marinade for your chicken, it’s important to consider the right ingredients and ratios. The marinade acts as a flavor enhancer and tenderizer, so the ingredients you choose and the proportions you use can make a big difference in the final taste and texture of your chicken.

Additionally, marinating time is crucial for the flavors to penetrate the meat, so it’s essential to follow the recommended time guidelines to achieve the best results.

Marinade Ingredients and Ratios

To make a flavorful marinade for your chicken on the Big Green Egg, you’ll want to use a combination of ingredients and ratios that will enhance the taste of the meat. Here are three key elements to consider when creating your marinade:

1. Acid: Adding an acidic ingredient such as lemon juice or vinegar helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with tangy flavors. Aim for a ratio of 1 part acid to 3 parts oil.

2. Oil: Oil acts as a carrier for the flavors and helps to keep the chicken moist during cooking. Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, and combine it with the acid in a 3:1 ratio.

3. Seasonings: This is where you can get creative and add your favorite flavors. Consider using ingredients like garlic, herbs, spices, soy sauce, or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste of the chicken. Start with a teaspoon of each seasoning and adjust to your preference.

Marinating Time Recommendations

For best results, let the marinated chicken sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors of the marinade to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken. The length of time you marinate your chicken can vary depending on the flavors you want to achieve and the marinating techniques you use. Below is a table that provides some recommendations for marinating times based on different marinade flavors and techniques:

Remember that these times are just guidelines and can be adjusted based on personal preference. Experiment with different flavors and techniques to find your perfect marinating time.

Seasoning the Chicken

Make sure you’ve properly seasoned the chicken before placing it on the Big Green Egg. Seasoning is an essential step in bringing out the best flavors in your chicken.

Here are three techniques to consider:

1. Brining: Brining involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution. This helps to enhance the chicken’s juiciness and flavor. To brine, dissolve salt in water and submerge the chicken for a few hours or overnight. Rinse the chicken before seasoning and cooking.

2. Dry Rub: A dry rub is a mixture of dry spices and herbs that you can apply directly to the chicken. It adds flavor and creates a delicious crust when cooked. Experiment with different combinations of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. Massage the dry rub onto the chicken, making sure to cover all areas.

3. Marinade: A marinade is a liquid mixture that adds flavor and tenderizes the chicken. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own with ingredients like olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, soy sauce, and spices. Place the chicken in a zip-top bag or container with the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Preheating the Big Green Egg

Ensure you preheat your Big Green Egg to the recommended temperature before cooking. Preheating is a crucial step in achieving the perfect chicken on your Big Green Egg.

To begin, open the bottom vent fully and remove the cooking grid. Then, light the charcoal using your preferred method, whether it’s using an electric starter, fire starters, or a natural fire starter. Once the charcoal is lit, let it burn for about 10 to 15 minutes until it’s covered with a layer of ash.

Next, carefully pour the lit charcoal into the bottom of your Big Green Egg. Make sure to spread it evenly across the charcoal grate. Place the convEGGtor or the plate setter on top of the fire ring to create an indirect cooking environment. This will help distribute the heat evenly and prevent the chicken from burning.

Now, it’s time to control the temperature. Adjust the top vent and the bottom vent to achieve the desired temperature. If you’re aiming for a low and slow cook, close the vents partially to lower the temperature. For a higher temperature, open the vents wider. Keep an eye on the built-in thermometer to make sure it reaches the recommended temperature range.

Grilling the Chicken on the Big Green Egg

To grill the chicken on your Big Green Egg, you’ll want to monitor the temperature closely to ensure it cooks evenly and to perfection. Here are three important things to keep in mind:

1. Set the grill temperature: Start by preheating your Big Green Egg to a medium-high temperature of around 375°F (190°C). This will help sear the chicken and lock in the juices. Use a reliable thermometer to accurately measure the temperature and adjust the vents accordingly to maintain a steady heat.

2. Indirect cooking method: When grilling chicken on the Big Green Egg, it’s best to use the indirect cooking method. This means placing the chicken pieces away from the direct heat source, such as the glowing charcoal. This allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out. Arrange the chicken on the cooking grates, making sure there is enough space between each piece for proper airflow.

3. Cooking time: The cooking time for chicken on the Big Green Egg can vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. As a general rule, boneless, skinless chicken breasts usually take around 15-20 minutes, while bone-in chicken pieces like thighs and drumsticks may take 25-35 minutes. It’s important to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Checking the Internal Temperature

To check if your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature, simply insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone. This method ensures temperature accuracy and guarantees that your chicken is thoroughly cooked and safe to eat.

When using alternative cooking methods like grilling on the Big Green Egg, it is important to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken to prevent undercooking or overcooking.

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable way to determine the doneness of your chicken. The recommended internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, such as the breast or thigh, making sure to avoid contact with the bone. Wait for a few seconds until the thermometer stabilizes, and then check the reading. If the temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), your chicken is fully cooked and ready to be enjoyed.

By regularly checking the internal temperature, you can ensure that your chicken is cooked to perfection every time. This method eliminates any guesswork and guarantees that your chicken is safe to eat, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Resting and Serving the Chicken

Once the chicken has reached the safe internal temperature, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a moist and flavorful final result. Resting the chicken is a crucial step in the cooking process as it allows the meat to relax and retain its juices.

Here are some tips for slicing the chicken and sauce options to enhance the flavor:

1. Slicing Techniques:

   • Start by placing the chicken on a cutting board and securing it with a fork to prevent it from moving.
   • Use a sharp knife to make clean and even slices across the grain of the meat.
   • For a more elegant presentation, you can also carve the chicken into individual pieces, such as wings, thighs, and breasts.

2. Sauce Options:

   • BBQ Sauce: Brush the chicken with a tangy barbecue sauce for a classic smoky flavor.
   • Lemon Herb Sauce: Drizzle the chicken with a zesty mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
   • Honey Mustard Glaze: Combine honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy glaze that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned how to make chicken on the Big Green Egg, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with delicious grilled chicken.

To start, remember to choose the right chicken cut. This will depend on your personal preference and the recipe you’re using. Whether it’s bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless, make sure it suits your taste.

Next, prepare a flavorful marinade. This step is crucial for adding extra taste and juiciness to your chicken. You can use a variety of ingredients like herbs, spices, oils, and acids to create a marinade that suits your flavor profile.

Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to season it to perfection. You can use a simple salt and pepper seasoning or get creative with a blend of spices that complements the flavors in your marinade. Be generous with the seasoning, as some will cook off during grilling.

Preheat your Big Green Egg to the desired temperature, usually around 350-400°F (175-200°C). This will ensure even cooking and a nicely charred exterior.

Place the chicken on the grill and cook until it reaches the desired internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.

Now all that’s left to do is enjoy the juicy and flavorful results of your grilled chicken. With these steps, you’re well on your way to becoming a master of chicken grilling on the Big Green Egg!