How To Grill Chicken In Cast Iron Skillet

Grilling Chicken in a Cast Iron Skillet: A Delicious and Easy Method

Grilling chicken in a cast iron skillet is a fantastic way to achieve that perfect sear and juicy texture. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned griller, using a cast iron skillet can elevate your chicken grilling game to a whole new level. Here’s a simple guide on how to grill chicken in a cast iron skillet to perfection.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Before you start grilling, it’s important to choose the right type of chicken. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for quicker and more even cooking. Make sure the chicken pieces are of similar thickness to ensure they cook at the same rate.

Prepping the Chicken

Before you start grilling, it’s essential to properly prep the chicken. Here’s how to do it:

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps in achieving a good sear.
• Season the chicken with your favorite spices and herbs. A simple mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works wonders.
• Let the seasoned chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Preparing the Cast Iron Skillet

Now it’s time to prepare the cast iron skillet for grilling:

• Place the cast iron skillet on the grill and preheat it over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes.
• Brush the skillet with a thin layer of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Grilling the Chicken

Once the skillet is properly preheated, it’s time to grill the chicken:

• Place the seasoned chicken pieces in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
• Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Avoid flipping the chicken frequently, as this can prevent the desired sear from forming.

Resting and Serving

Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides and sauces.

Cleaning the Cast Iron Skillet

After grilling, it’s important to properly clean the cast iron skillet to maintain its quality:

• Allow the skillet to cool down before cleaning it.
• Use a brush and hot water to scrub off any food residue.
• Avoid using soap, as it can strip the skillet’s seasoning.
• Once clean, dry the skillet thoroughly and lightly coat it with oil to prevent rusting.

Final Thoughts

Grilling chicken in a cast iron skillet is a simple yet effective method that yields delicious results. With the right preparation and technique, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful grilled chicken right in your own backyard. So, fire up the grill, grab your cast iron skillet, and get ready to impress your taste buds with perfectly grilled chicken!