3 Things That Are Better Grilled Over Charcoal

While not all chefs prefer charcoal over gas, the majority do. That's because grilling over charcoal infuses the meat, fish or vegetable with a delicious smokiness that you just won't get if you're using a gas grill.

If you're worried about working with unruly charcoal, brush up on your skills and then get to grilling these wonderfully smoky dishes.

1. Chicken-and-Seafood Paella

"A real paella is infused with smoky flavor," says chef Seamus Mullen. "Which is why traditional Spanish cooks almost always make the dish outside over a large fire."

2. Barbecued Brisket and Burnt Ends

Ten hours on the grill with a slather, a rub and a mop give this brisket an extraordinarily robust flavor.

3. Smoky Barbecued Chicken

This amber-colored chicken is incredibly delicious thanks to an overnight marinade, a spice-and-sugar rub, a sweet-sour mop and four hours on a charcoal grill.