How To Grill Split Chicken On Gas Grill

Grilling split chicken on a gas grill is a fantastic way to enjoy a delicious and flavorful meal. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving some juicy grilled chicken, this method is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With the right techniques and a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your grilling game and impress your friends and family with perfectly cooked split chicken. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to achieve tender and mouthwatering grilled split chicken on your gas grill.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start grilling, it's essential to prepare the chicken properly to ensure optimal flavor and tenderness. Follow these steps to get your split chicken ready for the grill:

1. Rinse the Chicken: Begin by rinsing the split chicken under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning: Rub the chicken with your favorite seasonings. A simple blend of salt, pepper, and garlic powder works well, but feel free to get creative with your seasoning choices.
3. Marinating (Optional): For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Preparing the Gas Grill

Now that the chicken is prepped and ready, it's time to prepare your gas grill for cooking:

1. Preheat the Grill: Turn on your gas grill and preheat it to medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature of around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
2. Clean the Grill Grates: Use a grill brush to clean the grates and ensure they are free of any residue from previous grilling sessions.
3. Oil the Grates: To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates using a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.

Grilling the Chicken

With the chicken seasoned and the grill preheated, it's time to start grilling:

1. Placement: Place the split chicken, skin side down, on the preheated grill grates. Close the lid and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes.
2. Flipping: After the initial cooking time, use tongs to carefully flip the chicken to the other side. Grill for an additional 5-7 minutes with the lid closed.
3. Checking for Doneness: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
4. Resting: Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled split chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes and sauces. Consider serving it with:

• Grilled Vegetables: Toss some bell peppers, zucchini, and onions on the grill alongside the chicken for a vibrant and flavorful side dish.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing accompaniment to grilled chicken.
• Barbecue Sauce: For a classic touch, offer a selection of barbecue sauces for dipping or drizzling over the grilled chicken.

Final Thoughts

Grilling split chicken on a gas grill is a straightforward yet rewarding cooking method that yields succulent and flavorful results. With a few simple steps and the right level of heat, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken that will impress your guests and leave them coming back for more. Experiment with different seasoning blends and accompaniments to customize the dish to your liking. So fire up your gas grill, grab some split chicken, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal fresh from the grill.