Grilled Chicken Breast
Grilled chicken breast is not just a protein-packed superstar; it’s also one of the simplest and most versatile dishes you can make. Whether you’re throwing a backyard barbecue or prepping for meal prep, grilled chicken offers a delightful way to enjoy your meal. This recipe will take you step-by-step through the process of achieving juicy, flavorful chicken that’s sure to impress everyone!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Substitutions: If you're short on lemons feel free to use lime juice instead. For a sweeter alternative, you can substitute honey with agave syrup. Don’t have paprika? Cumin or chili powder can add a different flavor profile!
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or ideally for up to 2 hours. Marination is key to juicy chicken!
- Preheat Your Grill: While the chicken is soaking up those flavors, fire up your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they are covered with ash.
- Grill the Chicken: Once your grill is nice and hot, take the chicken out of the marinade. Shake off any excess marinade (but don’t rinse it off) and place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side before flipping them over for another 6-8 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: When the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Slice it up and serve it alongside your favorite sides, like a fresh salad or grilled veggies!