An Eye for Safety

• Meat continues to cook for some time after it's removed from the grill. The resting period gives the meat time to reach a safe internal temperature. Chicken doesn't require a resting period due to food safety issues, because it's best practice to leave the chicken on the grill until it reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This applies to both whole grilled chickens and small chicken pieces, such as breast or thigh sections.

Rest for Moisture

• Although resting isn't required to ensure the chicken reaches a safe temperature, it can still benefit grilled chicken. When meat is grilled, the moisture migrates from within the meat toward the skin. If you cut into the chicken immediately after pulling it from the grill, most of the moisture will drain out and leave you with dry-tasting chicken. Resting the meat removes it from the direct heat source, allowing the moisture to redistribute through the chicken before you cut. It's not necessary to rest grilled chicken, but it does result in a more flavorful and moist piece of meat.

It's All In the Timing

• Resting time varies depending on the size of the chicken. Small cuts of chicken, such as a boneless, skinless breast, require no more than five minutes for the juices to redistribute through the meat. A whole grilled chicken requires 20 to 30 minutes of resting time. Although you can cut and serve the chicken before it's rested completely, waiting for the full time does result in moister chicken.

Master the Technique

• Heat doesn't immediately dissipate from the chicken as soon as it's removed from the grill, so it will remain within the safe temperature holding temperature range of more than 140 F as it rests if you cover it properly. Remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a cutting board or platter. Cover the meat with a loose tent of aluminum foil, which allows excess moisture out so the chicken skin doesn't become soggy with condensation while still retaining the warmth. Cut and serve the chicken immediately after resting.