Ep 8. Whole Chicken

In season 1, episode 8 of Grill It! with Bobby Flay, the celebrity chef tackles a classic grilling dish - a whole chicken. Flay offers viewers multiple ways to cook a juicy and flavorful bird on the grill, from a simple but delicious lemon-herb marinade to a spicy Mexican-inspired rub.

The episode kicks off with Flay breaking down a chicken into its individual parts, discussing the benefits of grilling each piece separately to ensure even cooking. He then moves on to the star of the show - a whole chicken - and demonstrates how to properly butterfly it for faster, more even cooking.

Flay's first recipe utilizes a tangy marinade of lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs, which he first rubs under the skin of the chicken and then allows to marinate for several hours. He grills the bird over medium-high heat, flipping once, until it reaches a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Next up, Flay shows viewers how to put a Mexican spin on their grilled chicken by whipping up a dry rub featuring spices like ancho chili powder, cumin, and paprika. He rubs this generously onto the chicken, allowing it to sit for a bit before grilling over high heat. To serve, Flay suggests making a batch of fresh guacamole and a side of grilled corn on the cob.

Finally, Flay takes a healthy approach to whole grilled chicken, showcasing a recipe that uses a fragrant mixture of herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary to add flavor without added calories. He again butters the chicken for quicker grilling time and cooks it over indirect heat until fully cooked. For a simple yet delicious side, Flay suggests pairing the bird with a grilled onion and arugula salad.

Throughout the episode, Flay emphasizes the importance of proper temperature control and cooking times when it comes to grilling chicken. He provides helpful tips, such as preheating the grill and using a meat thermometer, to ensure that viewers can achieve restaurant-quality results at home.

Overall, season 1, episode 8 of Grill It! with Bobby Flay offers a wealth of mouth-watering recipes for tackling a whole chicken on the grill. From classic American flavors to more exotic twists, Flay inspires viewers to go beyond the standard barbecue chicken and elevate their outdoor cooking game.