There’s something undeniably magical about the crackly crunch of fried chicken — but what if you could achieve that same crisp without deep-frying? Grill fried chicken is the delicious middle ground between smoky grilled meat and golden fried goodness. Whether you’re chasing that healthier take on a comfort classic or simply want to fire up your grill without setting off your smoke alarm, this method is a total win.
In this guide, we’re diving deep into the flavorful world of grill-fried chicken. From what it is, why it’s trending, how to make it, flavor variations, and expert tips — we’ve got you covered. So grab your tongs, get your spices ready, and let’s turn your grill into a crispy chicken machine.
Grill Fried Chicken: The Crispy, Juicy Game-Changer You Didn’t Know You Needed
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A delicious twist on traditional fried chicken, Grill Fried Chicken combines the smoky flavor of grilling with the crispy coating of fried chicken for a lighter, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for brushing)
Instructions
- Rinse chicken pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
- Marinate chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Dip chicken pieces into beaten eggs, then dredge in seasoned flour mixture.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Brush chicken pieces with vegetable oil to help crisping.
- Grill chicken over indirect heat for 30–40 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double-dip chicken in egg and flour mixture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.
- Can be served with coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
gredients for Grill Fried Chicken
Creating crispy grill fried chicken starts with simple but flavorful ingredients that deliver bold taste and perfect texture. First, choose your chicken cuts wisely. Drumsticks, thighs, and wings work best for this recipe because they stay juicy and absorb marinade well. For a leaner option, go with butterflied chicken breasts.
Next up is the marinade. A classic buttermilk marinade tenderizes the meat while adding tangy depth. Mix buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper, and soak the chicken for at least 4 hours — overnight is even better. For a dairy-free version, swap in olive oil, lemon juice, and mustard.
Now, let’s talk coating. Combine all-purpose flour with cornstarch for extra crunch, or go low-carb with pork panko. Add seasoning like paprika, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne to make the crust pop with flavor.
Finally, you’ll need a high-smoke-point oil like avocado oil spray or canola oil to help the coating crisp up on the grill. Spray lightly before cooking for that golden, crunchy texture.
With the right ingredients, grill fried chicken becomes crispy on the outside, juicy inside — and totally irresistible.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Grill Fried Chicken
Making grill fried chicken is easier than you think. Just follow these steps for crispy, juicy perfection — all without deep-frying.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by soaking your chicken in a marinade. Use buttermilk, hot sauce, and a sprinkle of garlic powder for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better). This helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, paprika, salt, and pepper. For extra crunch, toss in some panko or pork panko. Dredge each piece of chicken evenly and shake off any excess.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium heat (about 375°F) and create two zones: one for indirect heat and one for searing. Place a cast iron pan or grill-safe tray on the cooler side.
Step 4: Grill It Right
Spray the coated chicken with avocado oil and place it on the indirect heat side. Close the lid and cook for 30–40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Sear for the last few minutes for a crispy finish.
Step 5: Let It Rest
Remove from the grill and rest for 5 minutes. That’s it — crispy, golden grill fried chicken, done right!
Essential Equipment for Making Grill Fried Chicken
You don’t need a restaurant kitchen to make crispy grill fried chicken — just the right tools. Having a few key pieces of equipment makes all the difference in texture, flavor, and ease.
1. Grill (Charcoal or Gas)
Whether you’re using a charcoal or gas grill, setting up a two-zone heat system is a must. This allows you to cook the chicken slowly over indirect heat, then crisp it up over direct heat.
2. Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Basket
A cast iron pan distributes heat evenly and gives your chicken a nice golden crust without burning. Alternatively, use a grill basket to keep smaller pieces from sticking or falling through the grates.
3. Meat Thermometer
No more guesswork — use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken hits the safe internal temp of 165°F without overcooking.
4. Oil Sprayer or Basting Brush
To mimic that fried texture, use an avocado oil spray or basting brush to lightly coat the chicken before and during grilling.
5. Tongs and Wire Rack
Long-handled tongs keep your hands safe, while a wire rack helps your chicken rest without going soggy.
Flavorful Variations of Grill Fried Chicken
One of the best things about grill fried chicken? It’s a total flavor playground. With a few twists in your marinade or coating, you can take this crispy classic in any direction — from bold and spicy to herby and light.
Spicy BBQ Fried Chicken
Add heat with cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chili oil in both the marinade and coating. Finish with a brush of smoky BBQ sauce for that sticky-sweet kick. This version screams backyard barbecue.
Garlic Herb Mediterranean Style
Skip the heavy spices and opt for lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and dried oregano. The result? A lighter, grilled crispy chicken perfect for summer nights.
Keto & Low-Carb Fried Chicken
Ditch the flour and go with pork panko or crushed almonds for a carb-free crust that still crisps up beautifully. Pair with an avocado oil spray and indirect heat — perfection!
Gluten-Free Grill Fried Chicken
Use rice flour or cornmeal instead of regular flour. Add panko-style gluten-free crumbs for texture. You’ll still get that crunch without the gluten.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grill Fried Chicken
Can you grill fried chicken instead of deep-frying it?
Absolutely — that’s the beauty of grill fried chicken. By using a crispy coating, indirect heat, and a bit of oil spray, you can recreate the texture of fried chicken without dunking it in oil. It’s healthier, less messy, and still packs serious crunch.
How do you make grilled chicken crispy like fried chicken?
Great question! First, coat the chicken in seasoned flour or panko. Then, chill it before grilling so the coating sticks better. Grill over indirect heat, and spray with avocado oil mid-cook. Finally, sear it over direct heat for that golden, crispy finish.
Can I put breaded chicken directly on the grill?
You sure can — just be gentle. Use a grill-safe tray or cast iron pan to prevent sticking and burning. Breaded chicken does best on a two-zone grill setup, with a little oil to help crisp the coating.
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