Barbecuing is a fantastic way to bring the family together, and it’s even better when you get the kids involved. Fourth-generation pitmaster Barrett Black knows this well and has been finding ways to make grilling fun and educational for his son, Luke.
Beginner Friendly: Why Chicken Thighs Are Great for Kids
Chicken thighs are an excellent choice when grilling with kids because they require minimal prep and are forgiving on the grill. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs are hard to overcook, making them ideal for young chefs who are still learning the ropes. They’re also packed with flavor and have a great texture that holds up well on the grill.
“We’re trying to find ways to make it fun and get the whole family involved, and get their cooking adventure started,” says Barrett.
In this episode, they’re tackling chicken thighs, a perfect choice for grilling with kids.
Getting Started: Prepping the Chicken
Start by involving the kids in prepping the chicken. Barrett suggests trimming off any excess skin to prevent it from overcooking. This is a simple task that’s easy for kids to handle with a little supervision. Next, season the thighs with a dry rub. Let the kids sprinkle and rub in the seasoning; it’s a fun, hands-on way for them to contribute.
Grilling the Chicken: A Two-Zone Fire
For the cooking process, set up a two-zone fire on your grill. One side will be hot, and the other will be cooler. This setup gives you more control over the cooking process and is a great way to teach kids about the importance of temperature control in grilling.
- Start on the Cool Side: Place the chicken thighs skin side down on the cooler side of the grill. This allows the chicken to cook slowly and evenly without burning the skin. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 175°F. Chicken thighs need a bit more time than breasts to reach the proper temperature, making this step crucial for juicy, tender meat.
- Crisp on the Hot Side: Once the chicken is cooked through, move it to the hot side of the grill to crisp up the skin. This step only takes a few minutes and adds that delicious, crunchy texture that makes grilled chicken so satisfying.
Keeping It Safe and Fun
Emphasize the importance of safety when grilling with kids. Always supervise closely, especially around the grill. Teach them about the different parts of the grill and what’s hot or cool. By setting up a safe environment, you can make grilling a fun and educational experience without any mishaps.
Making It a Family Affair
Barbecuing with kids isn’t just about the food; it’s about creating memories and building skills that they’ll carry with them for a lifetime. Whether they’re helping to prep the chicken, learning to control the grill’s temperature, or simply enjoying the fruits of their labor, getting the whole family involved makes the experience more meaningful.
Barrett Black’s approach to grilling with his son Luke is all about making the process enjoyable and educational. By choosing forgiving ingredients like chicken thighs and setting up the grill for success with a two-zone fire, you can help your kids develop a love for cooking that will last a lifetime.
Grilling Memories
Barbecuing with kids is more than just making a meal; it’s about spending quality time together and teaching valuable life skills. With a little planning and the right approach, you can turn any cookout into a fun and educational experience for the whole family. So next time you fire up the grill, get the kids involved—they might just surprise you with their culinary creativity!