Cooking chicken on an electric grill is a quick and easy way to prepare juicy, flavorful chicken for dinner or meal prep. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness and cut of chicken, as well as the temperature of the grill. Here is a guide to how long different cuts and thicknesses of chicken breasts and thighs take to cook on an electric grill.
Cooking Time for Chicken Breasts
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular choice for grilling because they cook quickly and evenly. The thickness of the breasts will determine the cooking time.
Thin Chicken Breasts
For thin chicken breasts that are around 1/2 inch thick, the cooking time on an electric grill is approximately 6-8 minutes per side. Thinner cuts of chicken breasts cook faster than thicker pieces. Grill the breasts over medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Thick Chicken Breasts
If the chicken breasts are closer to 1 inch thick, they will need a few more minutes per side to cook through. Grill thick chicken breasts for approximately 8-10 minutes per side. Check the internal temperature to confirm they reach 165°F at the thickest part.
Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Stuffed chicken breasts generally need a little more time than boneless, unstuffed breasts. Cook stuffed chicken breasts over medium heat for approximately 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. The fillings, such as cheese, breadcrumbs, or spinach, will require additional cooking time.
Cooking Time for Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs have more fat and connective tissue than breasts, so they require a slightly longer cooking time to become tender. Boneless or bone-in thighs can both be grilled successfully.
Boneless Chicken Thighs
Plan on grilling boneless, skinless chicken thighs for about 8-12 minutes total. Grill them 4-6 minutes per side over medium heat. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Bone-In Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs that still have the bone in will take a bit longer to cook through. Grill bone-in chicken thighs over medium heat for approximately 15-20 minutes total, flipping halfway through. Cook until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tips for Cooking Chicken on an Electric Grill
Follow these tips for perfectly cooked chicken off your electric grill every time:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning and grilling to help it brown better.
- Use a digital food thermometer to check the internal temperature, avoiding over or undercooking.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling before serving for juicier meat.
- Clean the grill grates thoroughly before and after each use.
- Adjust the temperature higher or lower as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
Common Chicken Temperatures
Check your chicken with a food thermometer before removing it from the grill to ensure it has reached a safe internal temperature. Here are the recommended temperatures for different doneness levels:
| Doneness | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Undercooked | Under 145°F |
| Safe Minimum | 165°F |
| Well Done | 170°F |
Marinades and Rubs for Grilled Chicken
Marinating chicken before grilling infuses it with lots of flavor. Try wet marinades with acidic ingredients like lemon juice, vinegar, yogurt or buttermilk which help tenderize the meat. Dry rubs seasoned with spices, herbs and pepper will form a tasty crust when grilled. Here are some recommended options:
Wet Marinade Ideas
- Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic and oregano
- Soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger and brown sugar
- Buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic and onion powder
- Red wine vinegar, olive oil, rosemary and garlic
Dry Rub Ideas
- Chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper
- Smoked paprika, garlic powder, oregano and thyme
- Cumin, coriander, cinnamon and cayenne
- Brown sugar, chili powder, salt and pepper
Conclusion
Grilling chicken on an electric grill allows you to quickly cook juicy chicken with nice grill marks and char flavor. Boneless chicken breasts take about 6-10 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Bone-in chicken thighs require more time, around 15-20 minutes total. Use a thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F. Marinating the chicken will make it even more flavorful. Follow these guidelines for perfect grilled chicken off your electric grill every time.