Grilling chicken sausage on a propane grill is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, flavorful meal. But knowing precisely how long to cook it can be tricky. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring perfectly cooked, juicy chicken sausage every time.
Factors Affecting Chicken Sausage Grilling Time
Several factors influence how long your chicken sausage needs on the grill:
- Thickness of the Sausage: Thicker sausages require longer grilling times than thinner ones.
- Type of Sausage: Different brands and types of chicken sausage may have varying cooking times. Always check the package instructions for guidance.
- Desired Doneness: Do you prefer your sausage slightly pink in the center or fully cooked? This impacts cooking time.
- Grill Temperature: A hotter grill cooks faster, while a lower temperature results in slower cooking.
Prepping Your Chicken Sausage for the Grill
Before you even light the propane, preparation is key for juicy, flavorful sausage.
- Remove from Packaging: Take the chicken sausage out of its packaging and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This allows for even cooking.
- Don't Pierce: Resist the urge to pierce the sausage before grilling. This can cause the juices to leak out, resulting in dry sausage.
Grilling Your Chicken Sausage: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat Your Propane Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F). You should be able to hold your hand about 6 inches above the grates for 4-5 seconds.
2. Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Use a high-heat oil like canola or vegetable oil.
3. Place the Sausage: Arrange the chicken sausages on the preheated grill, leaving some space between each one for even cooking.
4. Grill Time: This is where things get a bit personalized. For average-thickness sausages, aim for approximately 12-15 minutes, turning them every 3-5 minutes to ensure even browning and cooking.
5. Check for Doneness: The internal temperature is the ultimate indicator of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the sausage. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the sausages from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful sausage.
Troubleshooting Common Grilling Problems
- Burning: If your sausages are burning on the outside before the inside is cooked through, lower the grill temperature or move them to a less hot area of the grill.
- Sticking: If the sausages stick to the grates, try using more oil or a grill mat.
- Uneven Cooking: Ensure your grill temperature is even throughout. You might need to adjust the gas flow.
Tips for Extra Flavorful Grilled Chicken Sausage
- Marinate: Marinating your chicken sausages before grilling adds extra flavor and moisture.
- Glaze: Brush your sausages with your favorite BBQ sauce or glaze during the last few minutes of grilling for added sweetness and flavor.
- Charring: For a nice smoky char, consider grilling over high heat for a shorter period, achieving a beautiful crust.
By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be grilling perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful chicken sausage on your propane grill in no time! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't flawless. Keep experimenting, and you'll become a chicken sausage grilling pro in no time!
