Grilling chicken breasts can be tricky, but this recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful results every time. Using simple ingredients and easy techniques, you’ll transform ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering dish that shines at any meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, this grilled chicken will have everyone coming back for more.
Steps
- Begin by placing each chicken breast in a large plastic bag and gently pound them to a uniform thickness of about half an inch. This step helps tenderize the meat and ensures it cooks evenly on the grill.
- Prepare the marinade by mixing all the ingredients except the chicken in a resealable bag. Ensure the lemon zest is finely grated to provide ample flavor without affecting the chicken’s texture. Add the chicken to the marinade and massage it in until the meat is well-coated.
- Seal the bag and place it in a bowl in the refrigerator, allowing the chicken to marinate for at least four hours or overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to develop and penetrate the meat.
- Preheat your grill to a high temperature and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the marinated chicken for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, keeping the grill covered to create convection heat for even cooking.
- After grilling, allow the chicken to sit for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices. This resting time is perfect for setting the table and preparing any additional sides.
Ingredients
- 1¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1¼ teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1½ teaspoons lemon zest, from one lemon
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1652 | Fat: 100 g | Saturated Fat: 16 g | Carbohydrates: 8 g | Sugar: 0 g | Fiber: 0 g | Protein: 168 g | Sodium: 3832 mg | Cholesterol: 508 mg
FAQ
- Why does my grilled chicken often turn out dry?
- Boneless chicken breasts are naturally lean, which can lead to them drying out. This recipe addresses that issue by ensuring even cooking and using a marinade that enhances flavor without causing dryness.
- Does marinating prevent chicken from drying out?
- Contrary to popular belief, marinating alone does not prevent chicken from becoming dry. In fact, acidic ingredients in marinades can make the chicken’s exterior leathery. This recipe uses lemon zest instead of juice to impart flavor without affecting texture.
- What is the best way to marinate chicken?
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a zip-lock bag and add the chicken. Massage the marinade into the meat, then seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to enhance flavor.
- How can I prevent chicken from sticking to the grill?
- Ensure your grill is preheated to high heat and that the grates are clean and oiled. If the chicken feels stuck when you try to flip it, give it 30 more seconds, and it should naturally release.
- Can I freeze grilled chicken, and if so, how?
- Yes, you can freeze grilled chicken. Let it cool completely before wrapping each piece in plastic wrap and placing them in a zip-lock bag. This prevents pieces from sticking together and allows you to defrost them individually.
Tips
- Pound Evenly: Use a meat mallet, rolling pin, or saucepan to pound the chicken breasts to a uniform ½-inch thickness. This step is crucial for tenderizing the meat and ensuring it cooks evenly, preventing the thin parts from drying out while the thicker sections finish cooking.
- Use Lemon Zest, Not Juice: Incorporate lemon zest into the marinade instead of lemon juice or other acidic ingredients. The zest imparts a bright lemony flavor without altering the chicken’s tender texture, which acids can sometimes make leathery.
- Ensure High Grill Heat: Preheat your grill to high heat and oil the grates before cooking. This will help achieve attractive grill marks and a nice char on the chicken, while also preventing it from sticking. Remember, chicken breasts pounded thin only need 2 to 3 minutes per side to cook perfectly.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 3 to 4 minutes after cooking. This resting period helps retain the juices within the meat, ensuring that each bite remains moist and flavorful.
