Grilled chicken is a timeless favorite, perfect for gatherings or a delightful family dinner. The sizzling sound and irresistible aroma of tender chicken searing on the grill is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. With our step by step guide, you’ll master the art of grilling chicken to perfection, achieving that sought after combination of smoky char and juicy tenderness. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this delectable grilled chicken recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
Directions
How to Prepare Grilled Chicken
1/ Preparing this succulent grilled chicken is a breeze. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
2/ While the grill is heating, gather the ingredients and combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This marinade will infuse the chicken with incredible flavors.
3/ Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Let the chicken marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the marinade to work its magic.
During this time, you can prepare your desired side dishes or salads to complement the grilled chicken.
4/ Once the marinating time is complete, remove the chicken from the dish and discard any excess marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook them for approximately 6-8 minutes per side.
To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C).
Here Are Some Tips for Grilled Chicken
- Choose the Right Cut:
Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs for grilling. They cook more evenly and quickly on the grill.
- Marinate for Flavor:
Marinating the chicken before grilling infuses it with flavors and helps to keep it moist. Use your favorite marinade or try a combination of oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices.
- Preheat the Grill:
Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it. This helps to sear the meat and lock in the juices.
- Oil the Grill Grates:
Prevent sticking by oiling the grill grates with a brush or a paper towel dipped in oil before placing the chicken on the grill.
- Pat Dry the Chicken:
Before grilling, remove excess marinade from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This promotes better browning and prevents flare-ups on the grill.
- Use Indirect Heat:
If using a charcoal grill, create a two-zone fire by piling the charcoal on one side and leaving the other side empty. For a gas grill, turn off one burner and place the chicken over the unlit area. This allows for more controlled cooking, especially for thicker pieces.
- Don’t Overcook:
Chicken can dry out quickly on the grill, so be cautious not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grill with the Lid On:
Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to maintain a consistent cooking temperature and trap the smoky flavors.
- Avoid Flare-ups:
Fat drippings from the chicken can cause flare-ups on the grill. To minimize this, trim excess fat from the chicken before grilling and keep a spray bottle of water handy to tame any flames.
- Resting Period:
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in tender and juicy chicken
.
- Experiment with Seasonings:
Play around with different seasonings and spice rubs to enhance the flavor of your grilled chicken. Try combinations of herbs, spices, citrus, and even some sweetness with honey or brown sugar.
- Grilled Veggies:
To make the most of your grill, consider grilling some vegetables alongside the chicken. It adds a tasty side dish and complements the flavors of the grilled chicken.
With these tips, you’ll be able to grill chicken that’s flavorful juicy and perfectly cooked every time. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken dishes!
Nutrition Facts
Here are the approximate nutrition facts for a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of grilled chicken breast, which is a common portion size.
- Calories: 165 calories
- Protein: 31 grams
- Total Fat: 3.6 grams
- Saturated Fat: 1 gram
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 85 milligrams
- Sodium: 74 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugars: 0 grams
These values are approximate and can vary slightly based on factors such as cooking method (grilling, baking, frying, etc.) and any seasonings or marinades used. Grilled chicken breast is a lean and high-protein food choice, making it a healthy option for many diets. However, keep in mind that the nutritional content may change if you add sauces or toppings to your grilled chicken.
