Grilling Chicken? . . . Start Dark Meat First

Since the dark meat takes longer to cook it should be started before the white meat so that all the pieces will be done cooking at about the same time. For cooking chicken pieces on the grill follow the simple steps below.

• Preheat the grill to medium temperature and use direct heat grilling method. Brush the grate with oil.
• Also brush oil on the surface of the chicken.
• Place the dark meat pieces of chicken on the grill; cover the grill and let pieces cook for 4 or 5 minutes.
• After the dark meat has cooked for 4 or 5 minutes, add the white pieces to the grate, skin side down. Do not overcrowd the pieces. Place cover on the grill and continue to cook.
• Cook for 5 or 6 more minutes and then turn all the pieces. Baste all pieces with melted butter to prevent chicken from drying out.
• Cover and cook for 6 to 8 minutes longer or until done. Chicken is done when the white meat reaches 170° to 175°F and the dark meat reaches 180°F.

See our collection of Grilling Tips & Advice to see more details about grilling chicken and other foods.