Grilled chicken breasts are juicy and tasty, perfect for a summer meal. Just season them with your favorite spices, grill them up, and enjoy a healthy dish!
I love how easy they are to make! Pair them with a fresh salad and you’ve got a meal that’s not just colorful but also fun to eat. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even turkey breasts for a leaner choice.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but can be swapped with avocado oil or a neutral vegetable oil if you prefer something milder.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a rich tangy flavor. If balsamic isn’t on hand, you can use red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a similar effect, although the flavor will vary slightly.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are fantastic for seasoning. If you have fresh herbs available, feel free to swap in 3 times the amount. You can also experiment with rosemary or basil for different flavors.
Paprika: For a little kick, smoked paprika works wonderfully. If you want it spicier, you could replace it with cayenne pepper or chili powder. Adjust to your taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can achieve juicy and flavorful results.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. The longer, the better—up to 2 hours helps the flavors really soak in!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures good searing and grill marks.
- Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking. Simply brush them with a bit of oil before putting on the chicken.
- Once on the grill, let the chicken be! Don’t move it around for the first 6-7 minutes to develop nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for safety; it should reach 165°F (75°C). This trick prevents overcooking and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This step is crucial—it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat for a tender bite!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 cups mixed greens (optional, for serving)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and a minimum of 30 minutes up to 2 hours for marinating. You’ll need around 15 minutes to grill the chicken, so the total time can vary between 55 minutes to about 2 hours and 15 minutes depending on marinating time. Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will add flavor to your chicken and make it juicy!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but it’s even better if you let it sit for up to 2 hours. This will let all those delicious flavors soak into the chicken!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take a paper towel and dip it in a little oil, then carefully wipe the grill grates. This will help keep the chicken from sticking as it cooks.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on one side. Try not to move the chicken around too much; this will help you get those lovely grill marks!
5. Flip and Cook Until Done:
After 6-7 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over. Cook for another 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (75°C). This tells you that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
6. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. After it rests, slice the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. For a delightful meal, serve it on a bed of mixed greens and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese if you like. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more flavor due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Balsamic Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. If you want a similar sweetness, just add a bit of honey or a pinch of sugar to the marinade for balance.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwaving or grilling for a few minutes works best, but ensure it is heated through without drying out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! Just be cautious, as marinating too long can sometimes lead to a mushy texture. Stick to about 12 hours for optimal flavor and texture. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled chicken!
