20 Best BBQ and Grilling Recipes

Depending on the cut of meat, you should marinate it for at least 30 minutes or as long as 8 hours. I like to marinate in the fridge overnight. Typically speaking, the tougher the cut of meat (such as a flank steak), the longer the ideal marinate time. On the other hand, if you’re working with a tender boneless piece of chicken, you don’t need more than 30 minutes or so.

I’d recommend direct heat (which is when the food is directly on top of the fire) for relatively small pieces of food that are more tender. This would include anything that cooks in 20 minutes or less. But if you are grilling a tougher cut of meat that requires more than 20 minutes, I’d suggest indirect heat which is when the fire is on either side of the food but not directly under it.

It’s best to pre-heat your grill for 10-15 minutes before you plan to cook your food, or until it reaches a temperature of 500F degrees. But the ideal temp varies depending on what you’re cooking, so always check the recipe.