Grilling season is here—and perfectly cooked chicken starts with the right temperature.
Whether you're cooking chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings, knowing the right grill time and internal temperature is the key to juicy, flavorful results every time.
🌡️What Temperature Should Grilled Chicken Be?
Grilled chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Dark meat like thighs and drumsticks can be cooked to 170–175°F for better texture and tenderness.
Use this grilled chicken time and temperature chart to cook every cut perfectly, whether you're grilling chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or wings.
🔥 Grilled Chicken Time & Temperature Chart
| Cut | Grill Temp | Cook Time | Target Internal Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts (boneless) | 400–450°F | 6–8 min per side | 165°F |
| Chicken Breasts (bone-in) | 375–400°F | 10–12 min per side | 165°F |
| Chicken Thighs (boneless) | 400–450°F | 5–7 min per side | 165–175°F |
| Chicken Thighs (bone-in) | 375–400°F | 10–15 min per side | 170–175°F |
| Drumsticks | 375–400°F | 20–25 min (turn often) | 170–175°F |
| Wings | 400–450°F | 20–25 min (flip halfway) | 165°F |
| Whole Chicken (spatchcocked) | 375–400°F | 45–60 min | 165°F (breast) |
Pro Tip: Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy—grill time can vary based on thickness and grill type.
Prefer a quick visual? Save this grilled chicken chart for easy reference next time you grill.
Want even more flavor? Pair these cook times with our easy chicken marinades 👉 6 Easy Chicken Marinades For Grilling
⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Grill Chicken?
Grill time depends on the cut, thickness, and temperature of your grill—but here are general guidelines to follow:
- Chicken breasts: 10–15 minutes total (6–8 minutes per side)
- Chicken thighs: 20–30 minutes total
- Drumsticks: 20–25 minutes total
- Wings: 20–25 minutes total
For best results, grill over medium to medium-high heat (375–450°F) and always use a thermometer to confirm doneness.
👉 Use the chart above for exact grill times and temperatures by cut.
Each cut cooks differently and benefits from slightly different grilling times and techniques.
🍗Grilled Chicken Temperature by Cut
Different cuts of chicken cook best at slightly different internal temperatures. While chicken should always reach 165°F for safety, some cuts benefit from slightly higher temperatures.
- Chicken breasts: 165°F for juicy, tender meat
- Chicken thighs: 170–175°F for more tender texture
- Drumsticks: 170–175°F for best results
- Wings: 165°F
Cooking chicken to the right temperature ensures both safety and the best texture and flavor.
👉 For a full breakdown, see our chicken internal temperature chart:
https://www.springermountainfarms.com/the-flock/chicken-internal-temperature-chart-by-cut-breast-thigh-wings-drumsticks/
🔥 Grilling Tips for Juicy Chicken
- Preheat your grill for even cooking
- Oil the grates to prevent sticking
- Don’t flip too often—once per side is ideal
- Use indirect heat for larger cuts
- Let it rest before slicing
Best Marinades for Grilled Chicken
Great grilled chicken starts before it ever hits the grill. Using a marinade adds flavor, helps lock in moisture, and creates that perfectly caramelized finish.
Whether you prefer something bright and citrusy or bold and smoky, choosing the right marinade can make all the difference—especially when grilling different cuts.
👉 Explore our easy chicken marinades to find the perfect flavor for your next cookout:
https://www.springermountainfarms.com/the-flock/6-quick-and-easy-chicken-marinades/
🍗
No Grill? Try This Instead
You can still get flavorful, juicy chicken indoors.
👉 Check out our air fryer chicken time and temperature guide:
https://www.springermountainfarms.com/the-flock/air-fryer-chicken-breasts-time-temperature-how-to-guide/
❓ FAQ: Grilled Chicken Temps & Timing
What is the best temperature to grill chicken?
Between 375°F and 450°F, depending on the cut.
How do you keep chicken from drying out on the grill?
Don’t overcook—use a thermometer and pull at the right temp.
Is 165°F always required?
Yes, for safety—but dark meat tastes better closer to 175°F.
How do you know when grilled chicken is done without a thermometer?
Juices run clear and no pink remains—but a thermometer is strongly recommended.
How long do you grill chicken at 400°F?
At 400°F, chicken breasts typically take 6–8 minutes per side, while thighs and drumsticks can take 20–30 minutes depending on size.
Should you grill chicken on direct or indirect heat?
Use direct heat for smaller cuts like breasts and wings, and indirect heat for larger or bone-in pieces to prevent burning while cooking through.
Do you need to flip chicken more than once on the grill?
For best results, flip chicken once per side. This helps develop a good sear and keeps the meat juicy.
