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Smoky Cast Iron Grilled Chicken | 30-Min Cozy Indoor Grilling Recipes

Best Smoky Cast Iron Grilled Chicken 30 Min Indoor Recipe

Smoky cast iron grilled chicken ready in 30 minutes using indoor grilling techniques. Perfect grill pan chicken for year round grilling. Try this easy recipe...
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Easy Dinner Recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 385

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or combination)
  • 3 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp sea salt
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp liquid smoke
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels—this is critical for proper browning and smoke development. Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, sea salt, and brown sugar in a small bowl, mixing well.
  2. Rub the spice blend generously over all chicken surfaces, pressing gently so it adheres. Stir together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, liquid smoke, fresh rosemary, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce in a small dish.
  3. Place a large cast iron skillet over high heat for 3-4 minutes until smoking hot—this ensures optimal searing. Brush the hot pan lightly with your oil mixture, then carefully lay chicken pieces skin-side down.
  4. The smoky cast iron grilled chicken recipe requires patience during this stage: do not move the chicken for 7-8 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Resist the urge to flip early, as this disrupts browning and smoke development.
  5. Flip each piece carefully, brush with remaining oil mixture, and cook the other side for 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot chicken right before serving for brightness.
  6. Transfer finished chicken to a warm plate and let rest for 3 minutes before serving to redistribute juices throughout the meat. Any pan drippings can be spooned over the top for extra flavor and moisture.