Grilled Chicken Breasts

Grilled chicken breasts are a simple, healthy, and versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal plan. Whether served over salads, sliced in sandwiches, or plated as a main with sides, perfectly grilled chicken is juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With just a few ingredients and a hot grill, you can master this reliable classic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken every time, with a beautiful char and rich flavor from a quick marinade. It’s quick to prepare, great for meal prep, and pairs with almost anything. You’ll love the balance of convenience and taste, plus the ability to easily scale the recipe up for gatherings or batch cooking.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Garlic (minced)
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: dried herbs (such as oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning)

directions

1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
2. In a bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours).
4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates.
5. Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill.
6. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Marinate time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes (including marinating)

Variations

• Spicy Grilled Chicken: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for heat.
• Herb-Lemon Chicken: Use fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme with lemon zest for a bright flavor.
• Teriyaki-Style: Swap marinade for soy sauce, garlic, honey, and ginger.
• BBQ Chicken: Baste with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
• Mediterranean Twist: Add Greek yogurt, lemon, garlic, and oregano to the marinade.

storage/reheating

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, or in the oven at 325°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving too long, as it can dry out the meat.
You can also freeze grilled chicken for up to 2 months.

FAQs

How do I keep grilled chicken breasts from drying out?

Pounding them to even thickness and not overcooking are key. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but they must be fully thawed before marinating and grilling.

What grill temperature is best for chicken breasts?

Medium-high heat (about 400°F) allows for a good sear while cooking the meat through evenly.

Do I have to marinate the chicken?

It’s not required, but marinating adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.

Can I use this recipe for chicken thighs?

Absolutely. Adjust cooking time as thighs may take a few minutes longer.

What can I serve with grilled chicken breasts?

They pair well with salads, rice, roasted vegetables, pasta, or in wraps and sandwiches.

How long should chicken rest after grilling?

Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Can I grill chicken indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or electric grill for similar results.

What’s the best way to get grill marks?

Place the chicken at an angle and don’t move it for a few minutes before flipping.

Is it okay to reuse the marinade?

No, discard any marinade that’s touched raw chicken. If you want to use it as a sauce, boil it first.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken breasts are a go-to dish that combines simplicity with flavor and versatility. With just a few ingredients and a hot grill, you can create a juicy, satisfying protein that works for countless meals. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping for the week, this recipe delivers every time.

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