Description
This Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts every time. Marinated to enhance taste and grilled to perfection, it’s an ideal main dish for a quick and healthy meal. Simple ingredients and a straightforward grilling method make this recipe a go-to for summer cookouts or weekday dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 medium breasts)
- Oil for grilling
Chicken Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
To Serve (Optional)
- Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro)
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined. This marinade will infuse the chicken breasts with great flavor and help keep them moist.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are coated thoroughly. Refrigerate and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours, for optimal taste and tenderness.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F or 190-232°C). Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess. Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior has nice grill marks. Avoid flipping multiple times to retain juiciness.
- Rest the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.
- Serve: Slice the chicken breasts and serve with chopped fresh herbs, crumbled feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired for a fresh and tangy finish.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes improves flavor and tenderness; longer (up to 12 hours) is better if you have time.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the chicken in the oven as alternatives.
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking, which can dry out the chicken.
- Optionally add smoked paprika or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
