BBQ Chicken Cooking Times: How Long Each Cut Needs

Grilling chicken on the BBQ is a summer classic — but getting it just right takes more than guesswork. 

Undercook it, and it's unsafe. 

Overcook it, and it's dry. 

So, how long should you cook chicken on a BBQ?

Let’s break it down simply by cut, with temperature and timing you can trust.

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Chicken Cooking Times on the BBQ (By Cut)

Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless)

• Time: 6–8 minutes per side

• Total Time: 12–16 minutes

• Grill Temp: Medium-high (400°F / 205°C)

• Internal Temp: 165°F (74°C)

These cook fast but dry out quickly. 

Pound them to even thickness before grilling for best results.

Learn More Here: How Long to Barbecue Boneless Chicken Breast

Chicken Thighs (Boneless)

• Time: 5–7 minutes per side

• Total Time: 10–14 minutes

• Grill Temp: Medium-high

• Internal Temp: 175°F (79°C)

Boneless thighs are juicy and forgiving. 

Let them char a bit — it enhances flavor.

Chicken Thighs (Bone-In)

• Time: 8–10 minutes per side

• Total Time: 16–20 minutes

• Grill Temp: Medium (350°F / 177°C)

• Internal Temp: 175°F (79°C)

Flip them only once for crispy skin and even cooking.

Chicken Drumsticks

• Time: 8–10 minutes per side

• Total Time: 16–20 minutes

• Grill Temp: Medium

• Internal Temp: 175°F (79°C)

Drumsticks take longer due to the bone. 

Keep the lid closed to trap heat.

Chicken Wings

• Time: 20–25 minutes total

• Turn: Every 4–5 minutes

• Grill Temp: Medium

• Internal Temp: 165°F (74°C)

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside — flip often and don’t walk away.

Whole Chicken (Spatchcocked)

• Time: 45–60 minutes

• Grill Temp: Medium (indirect heat)

• Internal Temp: 165°F in the breast, 175°F in the thigh

Use indirect heat to cook it evenly. 

Start breast-side up, then flip for crisp skin.

How to Know Chicken Is Done (Without Cutting It)

The safest way is with a meat thermometer. 

Always check the thickest part:

• White Meat: 165°F (74°C)

• Dark Meat: 175°F (79°C)

👉 Want a quick way to remember all these BBQ times and temps? 

Try the Easy Function Meat Temperature Magnet. 

It sticks right to your grill or fridge and covers everything you need — chicken, beef, pork, and more.

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Tips to Keep Chicken Juicy on the Grill

• Marinate: Even 30 minutes makes a difference.

• Close the Lid: Traps heat for even cooking.

• Let It Rest: 5 minutes after grilling helps juices settle.

Final Thoughts

So how long to cook chicken on a BBQ? 

It depends on the cut — but with a grill temp of medium to medium-high and a meat thermometer, you’ll never guess again.

Whether it's breasts, wings, or a whole bird, knowing your timing is the key to juicy, flavorful BBQ chicken every time.

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