So equipped with our new idea, we set out to try a whole chicken to grill.  Our local meat and seafood market, Maxwell’s Market, features fresh local free range chickens. 

The butcher recommended to cut the bird into 10 pieces instead of the usual 8: 2 legs, 2 breasts, 2 thighs and 2 wings. 

The extra cut basically cuts the large breast in half.  And you know what – it worked out great.  We had 2 extra pieces of white meat.

Cutting the breast in half also made for a perfectly sized meat portion.

Ingredients for Grilled Chicken

Whole Chicken cut-up into 8 or 10 pieces
Garlic Powder
Tony’s Creole Seasoning
Sea Salt
A flavorful Bar-be-que sauce

Grill
Charcoal
Hickory or Mesquite Chips
Grilling brush or mop
Grilling Tongs

Cooking Directions for Grilled Chicken

Begin by preparing your grill and starting the charcoal.  For a full video on how to start a charcoal grill, please see our video called How to Grilling Tips.

Meanwhile, rinse the chicken pieces with water and drain on paper towels or in a colander.  Keep the skin on to provide juicy chicken instead of dried out burnt chicken meat.  Place on a platter or large baking sheet. 

Season with Garlic Powder, Sea Salt and Tony’s Creole Seasoning.  Sprinkle on both sides if you wish.  We just seasoned on the skin side.

Place on the grill opposite the charcoal – off the direct heat.  Grill for 25 minutes, then pat on a generous portion of BBQ sauce.  Continue grilling for another 20-30 minutes.  Chicken’s internal temperature should reach a minimum of 160 degrees in the thickest part of the meat. 

Remove from grill onto a serving platter.  Allow to sit for 5 minutes or so to soak in the great flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Chicken

Grilled chicken goes great with our Cajun Potato Salad!