Grilled chicken is a versatile, healthy, and quick dish that’s perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for an easy dinner recipe. This grilled chicken recipe brings out the natural flavors of the chicken while keeping it tender and juicy. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, this guide will help you create the best grilled chicken every time.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Recipe
To make the perfect grilled chicken, you’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients. These ingredients can easily be found at your local grocery store, making this a quick and easy recipe to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier results)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How to Cook Grilled Chicken: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be the flavorful base for your grilled chicken.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and ensure all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (for a deeper flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with white ash.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the meat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This will help retain the juices, making the chicken more tender. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Pound the Chicken Evenly: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Period: Letting the grilled chicken rest allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicier bite.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through but not overdone.
- Avoid Over-Flipping: Flip the chicken only once during grilling to get those perfect grill marks.
- Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the chicken to prevent sticking.
Variations of Grilled Chicken Recipe
You can easily customize this chicken recipe with different marinades and flavors:
1. Spicy Grilled Chicken
Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for a kick of heat.
2. Herb Lemon Grilled Chicken
Replace paprika with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and add more lemon juice for a zesty, herbaceous twist.
3. BBQ Grilled Chicken
Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for a sweet and smoky flavor.
4. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Mix ¼ cup grated Parmesan into the marinade for a cheesy, garlic-infused delight.
FAQ on Grilled Chicken
How long does it take to cook grilled chicken?
Cooking time for grilled chicken depends on the thickness of the meat and the heat of your grill. On average, it takes about 6-8 minutes per side for boneless chicken breasts to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What are the best tips for making grilled chicken?
Some of the best tips include marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes, using a meat thermometer, and letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?
The safest way to know is to use a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), the chicken is fully cooked.
Can I grill chicken without a marinade?
Yes! You can simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil before grilling. However, a marinade adds extra flavor and tenderness.
Grilled Chicken Recipe Card
| Recipe | Grilled Chicken Recipe |
|---|---|
| Servings | 4 |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12-16 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes (excluding marinating time) |
| Calories | 220 kcal per serving |
| Protein | 32g per serving |
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the marinade by mixing olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy grilled chicken!