Quick answer to how long do you grill chicken: 165 degrees.
The internal temperature at which chicken is deemed safe to eat is at 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a meat thermometer simply cook your chicken until the center has a internal temp of 155 to 160 and then let the meat rest for about ten minutes before serving. The actual cooking time on the grill will vary depending on the size and weight of part(s) of the chicken you are grilling. The following grill times and cooking temperature for chicken are estimates based the assumption the grill has been pre-heated. In case fat drips off and a fire flares up simply move your chicken to another section of the grill and the fire will quickly burn out. Remember, the USDA recommends that all poultry be cooked to 165 degrees before consumption.
Chicken Breast – place on a medium to medium high temp grill for 8 minutes, turn over and let it cook for another 5 to 10 minutes.
Chicken Wings – on a medium heated grill cook for 8 minutes on each side or until the skin is crispy. Use of direct or indirect heat is the grillmeister’s decision.
Half a Chicken – initially sear the skin for 3 minutes, flip and let grill for additional 40 minutes (be cautious of flare ups).
Whole Chicken – use indirect medium heat (don’t burn the outside) for 2 hours. Turn the bird over at the hour mark.
Once your chicken and its various parts are pulled off the grill, let the meat rest for five to ten minutes. The skin and meat should be firm to the touch. A thoroughly grilled chicken will have an internal white color. If the inside meat is pink, place it back on the grill (this will dry it out, but at least it will be safe to eat). If you are still uncertain how long you should grill chicken for, then buy a meat thermometer and 165 degrees is the goal.