The Best Way to Celebrate Summer? Grill Chicken.
If you’re walking down the block this time of year, chances are you’ve smelled that savory, camp-fire tinged scent of your neighbors firing up the grill. It’s no question, we’ve had one heck of a year. Maybe you’ve even read about a chicken shortage, but don’t worry, there will be plenty of drumsticks and wings to put on the grill this summer.
Gathering around the grill this summer is just one way we can celebrate the warmer months the way they were meant to be enjoyed – with great food, and even better company.
At this point, you’re probably asking yourself, “Can I eat chicken every day?” The answer is yes.
Grilling chicken isn’t just a good time, it’s also a great way to provide a nutritious meal perfect for you and your family (And friends! And colleagues! And even your mother in law!). Chicken plays an important role throughout the entire lifespan, meaning it provides vital nutrients perfect for Grandma AND for baby Jack! Plus, you won’t need to worry about crazy Uncle Leo’s weird new fad diet, chicken is super flexible and meets many eating patterns, from Flexitarian to Keto to Whole 30.
Before you get too excited and head out to the grill, we want to be sure you catch these helpful tips for making sure your meal comes out perfect (and safely!) every time.
Keep it clean!
Be sure all of your cooking utensils have been washed with hot water and soap. Hands should be washed before handling raw chicken and other food items. If you’re using a cutting board, be sure to wash with hot water and soap after you’ve completed preparing your chicken and before you begin chopping any veggies.
Don’t rinse that chicken!
Hey, we’ve all been there! Many of us were actually taught by our family to wash chicken in the sink. But this practice can spread bacteria around your sink and kitchen. Bacteria in raw meat and poultry can only be killed when cooked to a safe internal temperature!
Grill to perfection!
The most important asset to grilling a safe chicken meal for your family is a food thermometer. While sear marks can trick you into believing your food is ready, this tool will allow you to know exactly when your chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165 °F throughout. This is also the optimal temperature for getting the most flavor out of your chicken! So again, don’t forget to get a food thermometer BEFORE you start grilling.
Looking for more information on how to grill safely this hot chicken summer? Head over to the USDA’s helpful summer grilling “How-To” and don’t forget to read our safety tips on preparing chicken.
If you’re looking for some great grilling recipes, you’ve come to the right place. Be sure to check out our Butterflied Herb and Lemon Grilled Chicken and Curry-Lime Chicken Thighs.