Grilling chicken breast is a favorite for many home cooks looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. However, the question everyone asks is: How Long to Grill Chicken Breast? Getting the timing right ensures juicy, tender meat without the risk of dryness or undercooking.
This guide dives deep into every method you might use — from grilling on a gas grill or charcoal grill to cooking on the stove, Blackstone griddle, or even the oven. Plus, we cover important tips like the best temperature to grill chicken breast, how to tell when chicken breast is done on grill, and handy charts to guide your cooking.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast on Gas Grill for Perfect Results
If you’re using a gas grill, timing and temperature control are essential. The best approach is grilling at medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Preheat your grill to 400°F.
- Cook boneless chicken breasts directly on Grill Gate..
- Just Grilling for 5 to 7 minutes per side by Side, flipping only Two times.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for the safe cooking temperature of 165°F internal temperature.
This method produces tender, juicy chicken with great grill marks and char.
Learn more about gas grill chicken cooking times.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast on Charcoal Grill: Smoky Flavor in Every Bite
Grilling over charcoal adds a deep, smoky flavor. For this method:
- Wait until the charcoal turns white and ashy—this takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Grill chicken breast on direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side to sear.
- Move to indirect heat for 5-7 minutes to finish cooking through.
- Always confirm doneness with an internal temp of 165°F.
Charcoal grilling requires practice but rewards you with amazing flavor.
Explore detailed tips on charcoal grilling chicken.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast on Stove Using a Grill Pan
Without an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stove:
- Heat the pan to medium-high heat and lightly oil it.
- Grill each side by side for about 5-7 minutes, flipping two side.
- Check the internal temperature for 165°F to ensure safety and juiciness.
This technique works well indoors year-round.
Learn More Quick Guide stove-top grilled chicken breast.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast Tenderloins for Quick Meals
Chicken tenderloins cook faster because they’re smaller and thinner. For tenderloins:
- Grill at 400°F for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tenderloins are perfect for fast snacks, salads, or skewers.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast on Blackstone: Flat-Top Grilling Made Easy
The Blackstone griddle offers a flat cooking surface ideal for even grilling:
- Preheat to about 375-400°F.
- Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side.
- Use a thermometer to make sure the inside reaches 165°F.
This method gives a crisp crust and juicy interior.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast at 400°F: The Ideal Temperature for Juicy Chicken
Cooking chicken breast at 400°F is the sweet spot for grilling. It allows you to:
- Get good sear and grill marks.
- Cook the meat quickly enough to keep juices inside.
- Avoid burning or drying out the chicken.
At this temperature, grilling time typically ranges from 10-15 minutes, flipping once.
How Long to Grill Thick Chicken Breast: Tips for Even Cooking
Thick breasts need more time or special prep:
- Consider pounding chicken breast to even thickness.
- Grill over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Use indirect heat if outer edges start to char too fast.
- Always verify with an internal temp of 165°F.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast Cut in Half or Strips: Faster Cooking Options
Cutting chicken into smaller pieces speeds cooking:
- Halves take about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Strip grill in about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Check with a thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe eating.
These cuts work great for quick meals like tacos or salads.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast Boneless and Fillets: Quick & Easy
Boneless breasts or fillets are favorites for fast grilling:
- Grill at medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes total, flipping once.
- Check for 165°F internal temp.
How Long to Grill Chicken Breast in Oven and Air Fryer: Alternative Cooking Methods
If grilling isn’t an option, the oven and air fryer work well:
- Oven bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Cook chicken breasts in the air fryer at 400°F for 15 to 18 minutes.
Grilled Chicken Temperature Chart: Know When It’s Done
| Chicken Type | Chicken Type | Internal Temp (°F) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boneless Breast | 10-15 minutes total | 165 | Flip once midway |
| Thick Breast | 12-16 minutes | 165 | Use indirect heat if needed |
| Tenderloins | 6-8 minutes | 165 | Smaller cuts cook faster |
| Chicken Strips | 4-6 minutes | 165 | Great for quick meals |
| Bone-in Breast | 18-22 minutes | 165 | Requires longer cooking time |
Essential Chicken Grilling Tips for Juicy Breast
- Always use a meat thermometer to check for a safe cooking temperature of 165°F.
- Avoid flipping too often — flip chicken breast once for best results.
- Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes to add flavor and moisture.
- Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy.
- Don’t press down on chicken while grilling to avoid losing moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to grill chicken breast on a propane grill?
Similar to gas grills — about 10-15 minutes, flipping once at medium-high heat (~400°F).
How often do you flip chicken breast on the grill?
Flip only once halfway through grilling to get perfect grill marks and even cooking.
How long does it take to grill chicken breast on Traeger?
On a pellet grill like Traeger, cook at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping once, until internal temp reaches 165°F.
How to tell when chicken breast is done on the grill?
Use a meat thermometer — chicken is done at 165°F internal temperature
How long does it take to grill chicken breast at 350 or 450?
At 350°F, grill the chicken for about 20 minutes, flipping it halfway through for even cooking.
At 450°F, reduce time to 4-6 minutes per side, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts: Mastering How Long to Grill Chicken Breast
Knowing how long to grill chicken breast and at what temperature is the key to juicy, flavorful meals every time. Whether you’re using a gas grill, charcoal grill, stove, or an alternative like oven or air fryer, the guidelines in this article will help you cook safely and deliciously.
By following these tips and checking internal temperatures, you can confidently grill chicken breasts that your whole family will love. So, fire up the grill, season your chicken, and get cooking!
