Grilling juicy chicken breasts is a breeze! With just some seasoning and a hot grill, you’ll have tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it makes your kitchen mess-free!
I love to marinate the chicken with my favorite spices and a splash of lemon juice for extra zing. Nothing beats the smell of grilling chicken on a sunny day—it’s pure happiness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great here because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use chicken thighs, which are more forgiving and also very flavorful.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds moisture and helps the chicken cook evenly. Don’t have any? Vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter can work just as well in this recipe.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works too, but fresh is always best when possible.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. If you’re in a rush, garlic powder is a good substitute—just use about 1/4 teaspoon instead of a clove.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Don’t Dry Out?
The key to juicy grilled chicken is in the marinating and cooking process. Marinating your chicken helps infuse flavor and keeps it moist. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness. This helps it cook uniformly and prevents some parts from drying out.
- Don’t skip the resting step after grilling. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes allows the juices to settle back into the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer! Ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe, juicy chicken.
Follow these tips, and your grilled chicken will always be a hit!
How To Grill Juicy Chicken Breast Perfectly
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful grilled chicken recipe will take about 10-15 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes for grilling. Plus, remember to let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours). So, plan on around 1 hour total from start to finish, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the outdoor cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it is an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade will add flavor and moisture to the chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Carefully add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are well coated on all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor.
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). To keep the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, take the chicken breasts out of the marinade and place them on the grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want to see nice grill marks and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken even juicier. Slice the chicken breasts and sprinkle with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your delicious grilled chicken with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh squeeze of lemon adds brightness and enhances the flavors beautifully. Enjoy your perfectly grilled chicken!
This method guarantees juicy, flavorful grilled chicken that’s beautifully charred and perfect for any occasion. Happy grilling!
FAQ About Grilling Juicy Chicken Breasts
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be more forgiving and remain juicy even if slightly overcooked. Just adjust the grilling time as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Time to Marinate? Can I Skip It?
While marinating enhances flavor and juiciness, you can grill the chicken right after coating it with the marinade if you’re short on time. Just season with salt and pepper directly before grilling for a simpler flavor!
How Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, keeping an eye to avoid drying it out further. You can also enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches!
What Sides Pair Well with Grilled Chicken?
Grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, rice, or pasta. For a lighter option, opt for steamed broccoli or a quinoa salad for a nutritious complement.
