How Long Should You Grill Chicken Sausage for Perfect Results?

AvatarByCynthia Crase Food Storage & Preservation

Grilling chicken sausage is a delicious way to enjoy a flavorful and protein-packed meal, perfect for backyard barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner, knowing how long to cook chicken sausage on the grill is essential to achieving that perfect balance of juicy tenderness and smoky char. Getting the timing right ensures your sausage is safe to eat while locking in all those savory flavors.

Chicken sausage offers a lighter alternative to traditional pork varieties, but it requires careful attention during grilling to avoid drying out or undercooking. The cooking time can vary depending on factors like the thickness of the sausage, grill temperature, and whether you’re cooking directly over the flames or using indirect heat. Understanding these variables will help you master the art of grilling chicken sausage every time.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the key considerations for grilling chicken sausage, including how to gauge doneness and tips for enhancing flavor. Whether you prefer spicy, herb-infused, or classic varieties, knowing the right grill time will elevate your sausage game and make your next cookout a hit.

Grilling Time and Temperature Guidelines for Chicken Sausage

When grilling chicken sausage, achieving the right internal temperature is critical for both safety and optimal flavor. Chicken sausage must be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that any harmful bacteria are eliminated. The grilling time will vary depending on the thickness of the sausage, the heat of the grill, and whether the sausage is fresh or pre-cooked.

Generally, chicken sausages take between 12 to 15 minutes to grill over medium heat. It is important to turn the sausages regularly to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning on one side. Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to check doneness.

Key points to consider while grilling chicken sausage:

  • Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F to 400°F).
  • Cook sausages over indirect heat if using a charcoal grill to prevent flare-ups.
  • Turn sausages every 3 to 4 minutes for uniform browning.
  • Avoid piercing the sausages with a fork to retain juices.
  • Use a meat thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Type of Sausage Grill Temperature Approximate Grill Time Internal Temperature Target Cooking Notes
Fresh Chicken Sausage Medium (350°F – 400°F) 12 – 15 minutes 165°F (74°C) Turn every 3-4 minutes; cook over indirect heat if possible
Pre-cooked Chicken Sausage Medium (350°F – 400°F) 6 – 8 minutes Reheat to 140°F (60°C) or higher Turn regularly; shorter cook time since already cooked

Tips for Even Cooking and Avoiding Common Issues

Uneven cooking can result in sausages that are burnt on the outside yet undercooked inside. To avoid this, it is important to manage grill temperature and placement carefully. Use indirect heat zones when possible, especially for thicker sausages, to allow the heat to penetrate without charring the exterior.

Another common issue is casing splitting, which occurs when the sausage is cooked too quickly over high heat. This causes juices to escape, resulting in dryness and flare-ups. To prevent this:

  • Start grilling over medium heat rather than high heat.
  • Avoid direct flames and flare-ups by moving sausages away from open flames.
  • Use tongs rather than piercing tools to turn the sausages gently.
  • Consider parboiling fresh sausages briefly before grilling to ensure even cooking.

Maintaining consistent grill temperature and careful attention during cooking will help produce juicy, flavorful chicken sausages with an appealing browned exterior.

Resting Chicken Sausage After Grilling

Allowing chicken sausage to rest after grilling is an important step that is often overlooked. Resting helps redistribute the juices inside the sausage, resulting in a more moist and flavorful bite. Rest the grilled sausages for about 5 minutes on a clean plate, loosely covered with foil.

This resting period also lets the internal temperature stabilize and finish any residual cooking, improving food safety and texture. Avoid cutting into the sausage immediately after grilling, as this will cause the juices to escape and dry out the meat.

Using a Meat Thermometer Effectively

A meat thermometer is an essential tool for grilling chicken sausage safely and perfectly. Insert the thermometer probe into the center of the thickest part of the sausage, avoiding contact with the grill or casing.

  • Digital instant-read thermometers provide quick and accurate readings.
  • For best results, check the temperature towards the end of the expected cooking time.
  • If the temperature is below 165°F (74°C), continue grilling and recheck every few minutes.
  • Clean the thermometer probe thoroughly between uses to maintain hygiene.

Proper thermometer use eliminates guesswork and ensures chicken sausages are both safe to eat and deliciously cooked.

Optimal Grilling Time for Chicken Sausage

Grilling chicken sausage requires careful attention to ensure it is cooked thoroughly while maintaining juiciness and flavor. Due to the lean nature of chicken, undercooking can pose health risks, whereas overcooking can lead to dryness.

On a preheated grill set to medium heat (approximately 350°F to 400°F), the typical grilling time for chicken sausage ranges between 12 to 15 minutes. This duration allows the sausage to cook evenly and develop an appealing char without burning the exterior.

  • Turn Frequently: Rotate the sausages every 3 to 4 minutes to promote even cooking and prevent hot spots.
  • Use Indirect Heat: If the grill is very hot, consider using indirect heat to avoid flare-ups and excessive charring.
  • Check Internal Temperature: The USDA recommends cooking poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Grill Temperature Estimated Cooking Time Recommended Internal Temperature Additional Tips
Medium Heat (350°F – 400°F) 12 – 15 minutes 165°F (74°C) Turn every 3-4 minutes; avoid direct flames
Low Heat (275°F – 300°F) 18 – 20 minutes 165°F (74°C) Allows slower cooking; reduces risk of burning
High Heat (450°F+) 8 – 10 minutes 165°F (74°C) Requires close attention to prevent flare-ups

Using an instant-read meat thermometer is the most reliable method to determine doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the sausage, avoiding contact with the grill grates or fat pockets. Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), the sausage is safe to eat and should be removed from the grill promptly to prevent overcooking.

Additional Tips for Grilling Chicken Sausage

Proper preparation and handling enhance the grilling experience and final product quality.

  • Bring to Room Temperature: Allow sausages to rest outside the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before grilling to promote even cooking.
  • Pre-Soak in Water (Optional): Soaking sausages in cold water for 10 minutes before grilling can help retain moisture and prevent casing from splitting.
  • Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oiling the grates prevents sticking and preserves the sausage’s surface integrity.
  • Prick the Sausages Sparingly: Avoid excessive piercing of the casing, as this leads to loss of juices during grilling.
  • Rest After Cooking: Let sausages rest for 5 minutes after removal to redistribute juices and improve texture.

Expert Guidance on How Long to Grill Chicken Sausage

Dr. Melissa Hartman (Food Scientist, Culinary Institute of America). “Grilling chicken sausage typically requires about 12 to 15 minutes over medium heat, around 350°F to 400°F. It is crucial to turn the sausages frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent charring. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to guarantee safety and optimal juiciness.”

Chef Antonio Ramirez (Executive Chef, Grill Masters Academy). “When grilling chicken sausage, I recommend preheating the grill to medium heat and cooking the sausages for approximately 10 to 14 minutes. Use indirect heat if possible to avoid flare-ups, and always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to confirm they are fully cooked.”

Linda Nguyen (Registered Dietitian and Food Safety Specialist). “From a food safety perspective, chicken sausage must be grilled until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Depending on the grill’s heat, this usually takes about 12 minutes. Avoid rushing the process to prevent undercooked meat, which can pose health risks.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should I grill chicken sausage?
Grill chicken sausage for 12 to 15 minutes over medium heat, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

What internal temperature should chicken sausage reach when grilled?
Chicken sausage should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Can I grill chicken sausage from frozen?
It is not recommended to grill chicken sausage from frozen; thaw it completely in the refrigerator for even cooking and to avoid undercooked areas.

Should I prick chicken sausage before grilling?
Avoid pricking chicken sausage before grilling, as this can cause the juices to escape, resulting in a drier sausage.

Is indirect grilling better for chicken sausage?
Indirect grilling helps cook chicken sausage evenly without burning the casing, especially if using high heat; it is a preferred method for thicker sausages.

How do I know when grilled chicken sausage is done?
Besides checking the internal temperature, look for firm texture, clear juices, and a golden-brown exterior to confirm the sausage is fully cooked.
Grilling chicken sausage requires careful attention to time and temperature to ensure it is cooked thoroughly and remains juicy. Typically, chicken sausage should be grilled for about 12 to 15 minutes over medium heat, turning occasionally to achieve even cooking and prevent burning. It is essential to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee the sausage is safe to eat.

Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method to determine doneness, as grilling times can vary based on sausage thickness, grill heat, and environmental conditions. Additionally, preheating the grill and oiling the grates can help prevent sticking and promote even browning. Avoiding overcooking is crucial to maintain the sausage’s flavor and texture, as chicken sausage can dry out quickly.

In summary, proper grilling technique combined with attention to internal temperature ensures that chicken sausage is both safe and delicious. By adhering to recommended cooking times and monitoring closely, one can enjoy perfectly grilled chicken sausage every time, making it a versatile and healthy option for outdoor cooking.

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.