Grilled chicken is a popular staple at many family dinners, and this Traeger chicken breast recipe is an option to take things up a notch. This flavorful and juicy dish is made using a Traeger pellet grill, which uses natural hardwood pellets to infuse food with a distinctive smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want to whip up something special for dinner tonight, this grilled chicken breast is sure to please.
How to grill chicken breasts on Traeger pellet grill
Grilling chicken breasts on a Traeger grill can be an easy and delicious way to enjoy a summer meal. To begin, preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F.
Next, season both sides of the chicken breasts with your favorite chicken rub. After that, place the chicken breasts on the grill grate and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping them once halfway through. When the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F, take them off the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
What rubs to use
To get the most out of your grilled chicken breast, you need to choose the right rub. Rubs for chicken can vary in flavor, texture, and spiciness depending on the ingredients used. To make sure you get the best flavor possible, start by selecting a rub that accentuates the flavor of the chicken.
Common ingredients used in rubs for chicken breast include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and black pepper. If you are looking for something a bit more flavorful, you can add cumin and chili powder for an extra kick.
Additionally, for a sweeter rub, add a little brown sugar or maple syrup. Once you have selected your rub ingredients, mix everything together in a bowl and start rubbing your chicken breast. Make sure to cover each side with the rub and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Doing this will allow the flavors to really set into the chicken.
What type of wood pellets to use
There are various types of wood pellets on the market, each with their own unique flavor profile and level of smoke. Hickory, mesquite, oak, and apple are some of the most popular types of wood pellets used for grilling chicken breasts. Hickory and mesquite are known for their strong smoky flavor, while oak and apple provide a milder flavor.
What temperature should I grill chicken breast to
It’s important to know the proper temperature in order to ensure that your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. To grill chicken breast, the optimal temperature is 165°F. To ensure your chicken breast is cooked through, use a thermometer and take the temperature at the thickest part of the breast. If your thermometer shows a reading of 165°F or higher, then your chicken is ready to be served.
Additionally, it is important to not overcook your chicken. Doing so can cause it to become dry and tough. Therefore, make sure to keep an eye on your thermometer when grilling chicken breast and remove it from the heat when it reaches 165°F.
What to side dish to serve
Grilled chicken breasts are versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. To make sure you get the most out of your grilled chicken breasts, here are some of our favorite sides to pair them with.
If you’re looking for something light and fresh, a leafy green salad with some homemade vinaigrette is an excellent option. For something heartier, try roasting some root vegetables like potatoes and carrots. If you’re looking for something with a little more zing, try adding some roasted garlic or spicy peppers.
Rice is also an excellent side to pair with grilled chicken breasts, especially if you opt for brown rice or wild rice. For a more flavorful dish, try adding some herbs and spices to the rice before cooking it.
If you’re looking for a side that won’t take too much effort to make, a simple plate of steamed broccoli or green beans is the perfect accompaniment. Last but not least, don’t forget to serve your grilled chicken breasts with your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce!
What to do with leftovers
What do you do when you have leftover chicken breast? Don’t worry, there are plenty of options! You can make salads, wraps, sandwiches, and more.
Start by cutting the chicken into cubes or strips. This will give you a variety of options for recipes. For salads, add the cubes to a bed of greens and top it off with your favorite dressing. F
or wraps, layer the strips with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and your favorite condiments. Sandwiches are also an easy option – just layer everything on a bun of your choice.
Another great idea is to make a stir fry. Add the strips to a pan of vegetables and seasonings for a tasty meal. Leftover grilled chicken breasts can also be used in casseroles, pastas, soups, and more. With so many possibilities, you’ll never have to worry about what to do with leftover grilled chicken breast again!
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Traeger Chicken Breast
Grill the perfect Traeger chicken breast every time! Our easy, step-by-step guide shows you how to get that juicy, smoky flavor with just a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breast (boneless and skinless)
- 1/2 cup Your Favorite Poultry Rub
Instructions
Preheat pellet grill to 350°F.
Cover each chicken breast with your favorite BBQ rub.
Place chicken in the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes or when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Take the chicken breast out of the grill and rest for 10 minutes before serving.