How to BBQ Chicken the Best Way

When it comes to the BBQ, chicken is a true crowd-pleaser – tender, juicy, and incredibly versatile. Whether it's boneless breasts, smoky thighs, or succulent drumsticks, chicken takes on marinades and grill marks like a dream. But as delicious as BBQ chicken can be, it's also one of the most commonly overcooked or undercooked meats on the grill. Getting it right means understanding the balance of heat, timing, and technique – and of course, starting with the very best chicken you can buy: organic, high-welfare, and packed with flavour.

Common Mistakes When BBQing Chicken – And How to Avoid Them

It’s easy to get chicken wrong on the BBQ. The most common errors include:

• Using too high heat – which burns the outside while leaving the inside raw.

• Skipping the marinade – leading to dry, bland chicken.

• Constant flipping – preventing a proper char and causing moisture loss.

• Not using a meat thermometer – risking undercooked or overdone meat.

Avoiding these pitfalls is simple once you know what you’re doing – and we’re here to guide you.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect BBQ Chicken

Here’s everything you need to know to master the grill:

1. Choose the Right BBQ

• Charcoal BBQs offer unbeatable smoky flavour and are great for that classic BBQ taste.

• Gas BBQs give more control over heat – ideal for cooking chicken evenly.

2. Create Heat Zones

• Use a two-zone fire: one side with direct heat for searing, the other with indirect heat for cooking through.

• This prevents burning while allowing the chicken to cook properly.

3. Preheat and Oil the Grill

• Always preheat the BBQ for 10–15 minutes.

• Brush the grill with oil to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

4. Marinate or Dry Rub First

• Marinate chicken for at least 4 hours (ideally overnight).

• For dry rubs, apply an hour before grilling to let flavours soak in.

5. Cook to Temperature, Not Time

• Use a meat thermometer – chicken should reach 75°C (165°F) at the thickest part.

• For bone-in cuts, cook on indirect heat for 30–40 mins, flipping once.

• Boneless breasts take 8–10 mins total (direct to indirect heat transition helps).

6. Let It Rest

• Rest your chicken for 5–10 minutes after grilling to let juices redistribute.

Marinades, Rubs & Sauces to Try

Elevate your chicken with these flavour-packed additions:

Before Grilling

• Lemon, garlic & rosemary marinade – bright and herbaceous.

• Smoky paprika & honey rub – for sweet, sticky, smoky results.

• Buttermilk marinade – tenderises and adds richness.

After Grilling

• BBQ sauce glaze – brush on in the final 5 minutes for a caramelised finish.

• Chimichurri drizzle – adds a fresh zing post-grill.

• Spicy harissa or peri-peri – for those who like it fiery.

Why Organic Chicken Tastes Better

At Eversfield Organic, we believe in the natural difference of truly organic chicken. Our chickens are:

• Reared slowly and ethically, with access to outdoor pasture and a stress-free environment.

• Fed a certified organic diet, free from pesticides, GMOs, and antibiotics.

• Expertly butchered for freshness, meaning no chlorine washes or gas-packing here.

The result? Chicken with a richer flavour, better texture, and real depth – not the bland, watery meat often found on supermarket shelves. When cooked on the BBQ, the difference becomes even more apparent – a caramelised crust, juicy interior, and a true taste of nature.

Grill Like You Mean It

This summer, don’t settle for anything less than BBQ brilliance. With Eversfield Organic chicken, expert tips, and a touch of preparation, you’ll be serving up chicken that’s mouthwatering, memorable, and ethically raised.