Grilled chicken breast is a classic dish that many people enjoy. It’s simple to make and perfectly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a summer barbecue, this recipe for Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast will surely impress. The chicken is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make grilled chicken breast. First, it is a healthy option that is low in fat and high in protein. Second, it’s versatile and can be used in various dishes, from salads to sandwiches. Lastly, grilling brings out a wonderful smoky flavor that you can’t achieve with other cooking methods.
How to Make Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast
Making Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast is straightforward. Just follow these simple steps, and you will have a tasty meal in no time.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 6 breasts)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
Directions
- Prep: Place the chicken in a large Ziploc bag (4-6 quart). Leave the bag open, then use a meat mallet or rolling pin to carefully pound the chicken to ½ inch thickness.
- Marinate: In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pour the marinade over the chicken (check the bag for holes before adding!). Zip the bag closed and massage the marinade into the chicken. Then refrigerate in a shallow dish for 4-12 hours.
- Grill: Once ready, take the bag with chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the grill to high heat and lightly oil the grates. Grill the chicken for 2-4 minutes per side, covered, until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast
You can serve the grilled chicken breast in many ways. Slice it and add it to a salad, place it on a bun for a sandwich, or serve it with grilled vegetables. You can also drizzle some barbecue sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over it for extra flavor.
How to Store Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast
To store the grilled chicken, first let it cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will be good for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Tips to Make Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast
- Don’t skip the marinating step! It helps to tenderize the chicken and add flavor.
- Always let the chicken rest after grilling. This helps keep it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Variation
You can change the flavor of the marinade by adding different herbs, spices, or citrus juices. For a spicy kick, add some chili powder or crushed red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes! Chicken thighs are also delicious and stay moist while grilling. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F, and the juices run clear.
Q: Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
A: Absolutely! Marinating overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just be careful not to marinate for too long, as it can become too soft.
With this simple recipe, you’ll be on your way to serving up some amazing grilled chicken that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast approximately 6 breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken in a large Ziploc bag (4-6 quart). Leave the bag open, then use a meat mallet or rolling pin to carefully pound the chicken to ½ inch thickness.
Marinating
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pour the marinade over the chicken (check the bag for holes before adding!). Zip the bag closed and massage the marinade into the chicken. Then refrigerate in a shallow dish for 4-12 hours.
Grilling
- Once ready, take the bag with chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the grill to high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the chicken for 2-4 minutes per side, covered, until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
