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How to BBQ Chicken on Fire Pits
Fire pit tables are versatile outdoor furniture pieces that not only provide warmth and ambience but also serve as a convenient cooking surface. If you have a fire pit table, you can enjoy the experience of barbecuing chicken right in your backyard. This guide will walk you through the process of barbecuing chicken on a fire pit, highlighting important steps and techniques to ensure delicious and perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Equipment and Ingredients
In order to effectively barbecue chicken on a fire pit, you will require several key pieces of equipment and ingredients. First and foremost, a fire pit table is essential for creating the necessary heat and providing a suitable cooking surface. Art Leon fire pits offers a diverse range of fire pit tables that can accommodate your specific needs.
To fuel the fire and generate the required heat, you have the option of using either charcoal or wood. The choice between the two depends on your personal preference and the flavour profile you desire for your barbecued chicken.
Next, you will need chicken, which serves as the centrepiece of your barbecue. Select your preferred cuts, such as drumsticks, thighs, breasts, or wings, ensuring that they are fresh and properly cleaned to maintain food safety standards.
To enhance the flavour of the chicken, consider utilizing a marinade or seasoning blend. You can either purchase pre-made options from the store or create your own marinade by combining a variety of herbs, spices, oils, and other ingredients. This will infuse the chicken with delicious flavours and help to tenderize the meat.
Finally, it is important to have the right tools for handling the chicken on the fire pit table. Tongs or a grill spatula are indispensable for flipping and manoeuvring the chicken as it cooks. These tools will ensure that you can handle the chicken safely and effectively, allowing you to achieve the desired level of doneness and maintain the juiciness of the meat.
By having the appropriate equipment and ingredients on hand, you can create a mouthwatering barbecue experience with perfectly cooked chicken on your fire pit table.
Preparation
Before you begin the process of barbecuing chicken, it is crucial to ensure proper preparation for a delicious outcome. Start by seasoning the chicken to enhance its flavour. Apply your preferred marinade or seasoning blend to all sides of the chicken pieces, ensuring an even coating. Allow the chicken to marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, enabling the flavours to infuse and penetrate the meat.
Next, it's time to preheat the fire pit table. Begin by igniting the fire pit and letting it heat up for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, the flames will gradually subside, and the charcoal or wood will form a bed of hot coals, which is ideal for cooking the chicken. This preheating process ensures that the heat is evenly distributed and ready for grilling.
By following these essential steps, you'll be well on your way to preparing a scrumptious barbecue chicken that will tantalize the taste buds of everyone lucky enough to indulge in your culinary masterpiece.
Cooking Process
Once the fire pit table is preheated, you can begin cooking the chicken:
Adjust the heat
To achieve optimal cooking results for your chicken, it's essential to adjust the heat on your fire pit table accordingly. If your fire pit table features temperature control options, it is advisable to set it to a medium-high heat setting. By doing so, you can ensure that the chicken cooks evenly throughout without the risk of it getting burnt. The precise adjustment of heat will play a crucial role in creating a delectably tender and juicy chicken dish that will satisfy your taste buds. So, be mindful of maintaining the right temperature for an outstanding culinary experience.
Oil the grill grate
Before you begin grilling your chicken on the fire pit table, it's important to take a moment to properly prepare the grill grate. To prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure hassle-free flipping, it is recommended to oil the grill grate. Simply take a paper towel and soak it in oil, then use it to grease the surface of the grill grate. This thin layer of oil will create a non-stick barrier, allowing the chicken to release easily when it's time to flip it over. By taking this simple step, you'll not only enhance the cooking process but also help maintain the chicken's integrity and appearance throughout the grilling session.
Place the chicken on the grill
Once you have prepared the grill grate, it's time to place the chicken pieces on it, ensuring a proper arrangement for optimal results. Carefully position the chicken on the grill grate, taking care to spread them out evenly without overcrowding. This strategic placement allows for uniform cooking as well as improved heat circulation. By giving each chicken piece enough space, the heat can reach all sides, ensuring that they cook evenly and thoroughly. Moreover, proper spacing minimizes the risk of parts getting overcooked or undercooked. So, take the time to arrange the chicken with care, and you'll be rewarded with succulent and perfectly cooked pieces of grilled goodness.
Monitor the chicken
Keep a close eye on the chicken as it cooks. Use tongs or a grill spatula to flip the pieces periodically, ensuring they cook evenly on both sides.
Check for doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. For chicken, the safe internal temperature should reach 165? F (74? C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Juices should run clear, and there should be no pinkness in the meat.
Remove from the grill
Once the chicken reaches the desired doneness, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs or a grill spatula. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Barbecuing chicken on a fire pit table can be a delightful and delicious outdoor cooking experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using quality equipment from ArtLeon Fire Pits, you can enjoy flavorful and perfectly cooked chicken right in your own backyard. Remember to prioritize safety during the entire cooking process. Keep a safe distance from the fire pit table, use proper utensils to handle the chicken, and ensure that the fire is completely extinguished once you're finished cooking.