Using oven bags on the grill is a great way to infuse moisture and flavor into foods. Reynolds oven bags are a popular brand of oven bags that work well for grilling. There are a few things to consider when using Reynolds bags on the grill to ensure safe and successful results.
Can Reynolds oven bags be used on the grill?
Yes, Reynolds oven bags can be used on both gas and charcoal grills. Reynolds bags are made from nylon that is heat resistant up to 500°F. This makes them suitable for use on an outdoor grill where temperatures inside the grill can reach upwards of 700°F.
Reynolds oven bags are designed to withstand high heat. The nylon material and folded seals keep the bag intact and prevent burning or melting even when exposed to open flames. As long as the oven bag is placed carefully over direct heat, it will hold up on the grill.
Benefits of using Reynolds bags on the grill
There are a few advantages to using Reynolds oven bags on the grill:
- Moisture retention – Reynolds bags lock in moisture and steam to keep foods tender and juicy.
- Enhanced flavor – Cooking in a bag allows seasoning and marinades to fully penetrate into the food.
- Convenience – Clean up is easier since food cooks inside the bag instead of directly on the grill grates.
- Versatility – Almost any food that can be baked or roasted can be cooked in an oven bag on the grill.
The closed environment of the Reynolds bags creates an oven-like effect on the grill. Foods essentially steam and braise inside the bag, resulting in added moisture and intensified flavor.
What foods work best with Reynolds oven bags on the grill?
All kinds of proteins, vegetables, and side dishes can be cooked using Reynolds oven bags on the barbecue. Here are some of the best options:
- Chicken – Whole chickens or bone-in chicken parts
- Fish – Fillets or steaks work well
- Beef – Roasts, steak, or meatballs
- Pork – Chops, loin roasts, or tenderloins
- Turkey – Turkey breast or drumsticks
- Vegetables – Whole potatoes, corn on the cob, onions, carrots
- Side dishes – Rice, baked beans, mac and cheese, stuffed peppers
The key is to choose foods that require a tender, moist cooking environment. Lean meats like chicken breast or fish tend to benefit the most from oven bag grilling. Sturdy vegetables like potatoes or corn steam perfectly inside the bags.
Tips for using Reynolds oven bags on the grill
Following a few simple guidelines will ensure the best results when using Reynolds bags for grilling:
- Preheat the grill completely before placing food bags over direct heat.
- Avoid overcrowding by leaving some space around each bag.
- Use tongs and heat-resistant gloves when handling hot bags.
- Rotate or flip bags halfway through cooking for even heating.
- Make small slits in the top of bags to allow steam to vent.
- Double bag when cooking especially fatty or juicy foods.
- Always check internal food temperatures for doneness.
Placing oven bags directly over high flames can cause burning or melting. Keeping the grill lid down as much as possible creates an oven-like environment inside the grill.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps for foolproof oven bag grilling:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.
- Place food seasoned as desired into a Reynolds Oven Bag. Remove excess air and seal according to package directions.
- Use tongs to place sealed oven bags carefully over direct heat on the grill grate.
- Close grill lid and cook for amount of time recommended based on food type.
- After halfway through cooking, use tongs to flip bags over for even heating.
- Check temperature by making a slit in the bag and inserting a food thermometer into the center of food items. Cook until desired doneness is reached.
- Remove bags from grill using heat-resistant mitts or gloves. Let rest 5 minutes before carefully opening bags to release steam.
- Serve food hot off the grill and enjoy!
Cooking Times
Cooking times will vary based on the type and cut of meat, size of vegetables, and intensity of grill heat. Refer to this general grilling guide for Reynolds oven bags:
| Food | Cook Time |
|---|---|
| Chicken pieces | 45-60 minutes |
| Chicken breast | 30-45 minutes |
| Pork chops | 20-30 minutes |
| Pork tenderloin | 45-60 minutes |
| Beef steak | 15-25 minutes |
| Beef roast | 60-90 minutes |
| Fish fillets | 15-20 minutes |
| Shrimp | 5-10 minutes |
| Vegetables | 15-45 minutes |
Use a meat thermometer to confirm safe internal temperatures. Chicken should reach 165°F, pork 145°F, beef 145°F, and fish 145°F.
Grilling Tips
Implement these simple tips for the best results when using Reynolds oven bags on the barbecue:
- Brush or spray bags with oil before cooking for easier release – avoid using cooking sprays once food is inside.
- Place a disposable aluminum pan underneath bags to catch drips.
- Resist urge to peek or frequently open grill lid to allow oven-like environment.
- Use two bags for really juicy foods like beef roasts or whole chickens.
- Add vegetables, herbs, or other flavorings inside bags.
- Let foods rest 5-10 minutes before removing from bags to allow juices to settle.
Cleanup and Storage
Reynolds oven bags make grilling a breeze when it comes to clean up:
- Discard used oven bags after cooking. Avoid reusing after grilling.
- Food residues will largely remain stuck inside the bags.
- Grill grates will only need a quick brushing since food doesn’t make direct contact.
- Use hot, soapy water to wash tongs, mitts, pans or any other grilling tools.
To store unused Reynolds oven bags:
- Keep bags in original packaging or tightly sealed container.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Avoid storage in very hot places like the garage or near appliances.
- Bags can typically last 6 months to 1 year if stored properly.
- Write the purchase or open date on the packaging to monitor freshness.
- Inspect bags carefully for holes or damage before each use.
Pros and Cons of Reynolds Oven Bags on the Grill
Using Reynolds oven bags on the grill has many advantages but there are also some potential downsides to consider:
Pros:
- Locks in moisture and flavor
- Minimizes grill flare-ups
- Prevents sticking and burning
- Allows for oven-like roasting
- Easy clean up
- Versatile for many foods
- Cooks food evenly
Cons:
- Risk of bag damage or melting if placed directly over flame
- Difficult to get sear or color on meats
- Can limit smoke absorption into foods
- May need special tools to handle hot bags
- Individual bag use creates more waste
Being mindful of the cons and avoiding direct high heat will help minimize potential issues when oven bag grilling.
Common Questions
Can you put wooden skewers in Reynolds oven bags on the grill?
It’s best to avoid using wood skewers inside Reynolds bags during grilling. The skewers may burn or ignite due to the enclosed high heat. Instead, substitute wood skewers for stainless steel or metal skewers which are safe for high oven temperatures.
Do you have to poke holes in Reynolds oven bags on the grill?
It’s not mandatory but it is recommended. Poking a few small slits or holes at the top of the bags allows steam to vent during grilling. This prevents the bag from bursting and helps foods roast evenly. Just take care to avoid areas over direct heat when making vents.
Can you reuse Reynolds oven bags after grilling?
It’s not recommended to reuse oven bags after grilling. The prolonged high heat can compromise the integrity of the bags. Used bags may have small holes or weak spots that could cause failure on subsequent uses. Always start with new oven bags for the safest results.
Should Reynolds oven bags be soaked or sprayed with oil?
Oiling the bags before grilling can help prevent foods from sticking. Use an oil mister or brush bags lightly with oil or cooking spray prior to adding food. Avoid heavy oiling or spraying with food already inside, which could cause excess flare-ups.
Do you need to flip Reynolds oven bags while grilling?
Flipping the oven bags halfway through cooking helps expose all sides to even heat. This prevents burning on the bottom of the bags. Use tongs to carefully flip bags over. Wearing grill gloves provides protection when handling hot bags.
Conclusion
Reynolds oven bags are a handy grilling tool that locks in flavorful moisture and allows for mess-free cooking. Proper placement to avoid direct heat and venting to release steam are key for success. With some smart practices, Reynolds bags can transform grilling results and make cooking and clean up a total breeze.