Grilled Chicken Breast

This Grilled Chicken Breast recipe is your ticket to a delicious and healthy meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With its tender and juicy texture, this chicken breast dish stands out thanks to a simple homemade marinade that infuses it with flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues, quick dinners, or meal prepping, this Grilled Chicken Breast pairs well with various sides like salads, grains, or roasted vegetables. You will love how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying each bite is!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Basic Chicken Marinade:
• How to Make Grilled Chicken Breast
• Step 1: Pound Chicken Evenly
• Step 2: Tenderize and Marinate
• Step 3: Preheat Grill
• Step 4: Grill Chicken
• Step 5: Rest and Serve
• Storage Tips
• How to Serve Grilled Chicken Breast
• Fresh Salads
• Grain Bowls
• Sandwiches and Wraps
• Toppings and Sauces
• How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Breast
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Chicken Breast
• Reheating Grilled Chicken Breast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use frozen chicken fillets?
• What is the best marinade for Grilled Chicken Breast?
• How do I know when my Grilled Chicken Breast is done?
• Can I meal prep Grilled Chicken Breast?
• How do I keep my Grilled Chicken Breast juicy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Marinate the chicken in just 15 minutes or up to 12 hours for a deeper flavor.
• Bursting with Flavor: The homemade marinade uses simple ingredients that elevate the taste of the chicken.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it with a variety of sides or as part of a salad for a fresh twist.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories and packed with protein, it’s a great addition to any diet.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Cook extra and store leftovers for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this Grilled Chicken Breast recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Zip-top bag
• Cutting board
• Bowl for marinating

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving those perfect grill marks and smoky flavor.
• Meat Mallet: Helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring even cooking.
• Zip-top Bag: Ideal for marinating without making a mess; seals in flavors efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1¾ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 medium breasts)
• 1 batch of Basic Chicken Marinade (below)
• Oil for grilling
• Optional toppings: chopped fresh herbs, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice

For the Basic Chicken Marinade:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1¼ teaspoons kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2–3 tablespoons acid of choice (lemon juice, lime juice, red wine vinegar, or balsamic vinegar)
• Optional: a few teaspoons dried herbs (e.g., Italian seasoning)

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How to Make Grilled Chicken Breast

Step 1: Pound Chicken Evenly

Place the chicken on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound it to an even ½-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Tenderize and Marinate

Use a fork to poke holes all over the chicken. In a zip-top bag, mix together the marinade ingredients and add the chicken. Seal the bag tightly and gently massage it to coat the chicken evenly. Place this bag in a bowl or dish to catch any leaks. Let it marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 12 hours. If you’re short on time, even letting it sit for 15 minutes will help!

Step 3: Preheat Grill

Preheat your grill to high heat (about 475°F). If your chicken has been refrigerated, let it rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before grilling. Be sure to clean and oil the grill grates properly.

Step 4: Grill Chicken

Shake off any excess marinade from the chicken before placing it on the grill smooth-side down. Cover and cook for about 4–5 minutes until you see grill marks. Flip when the chicken releases easily from the grates. Grill an additional 4–8 minutes until its internal temperature reaches between 155–160°F (it will rise to about 165°F while resting). Be careful not to overcook!

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Transfer the Grilled Chicken Breast to a plate and allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes. Top with fresh herbs, lemon juice, or feta cheese if desired before serving warm.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or use the microwave. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; make sure to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

This Grilled Chicken Breast recipe is simple yet full of flavor—a perfect choice for any occasion!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Breast

Grilled Chicken Breast is incredibly versatile and can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a quick dinner, there are countless ways to serve this delicious dish.

Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a refreshing side.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Parmesan and croutons pairs well with the chicken’s flavor.
• Quinoa Salad: A nutritious blend of quinoa, black beans, corn, and lime dressing adds texture.

Grain Bowls

• Brown Rice Bowl: Layer grilled chicken over brown rice with veggies for a hearty meal.
• Couscous Medley: Fluff up couscous with herbs and serve alongside the chicken.
• Farro Bowl: Nutty farro mixed with roasted vegetables makes a great base.

Sandwiches and Wraps

• Chicken Sandwich: Place the grilled fillet in a bun with mayo and lettuce for an easy lunch.
• Wrap It Up: Roll the chicken in a tortilla with avocado and salsa for a portable meal.

Toppings and Sauces

• Herb Topping: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
• Sauce It Up: Drizzle with homemade barbecue sauce or chimichurri for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Breast

To achieve tender and juicy Grilled Chicken Breast, keep these tips in mind:

• Bold Marinade: Use a flavorful marinade to infuse moisture into the chicken before grilling.
• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure even cooking throughout.
• High Heat Grilling: Preheat your grill properly; high heat helps create those perfect grill marks.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to avoid overcooking; aim for 165°F at rest.
• Let It Rest: Resting after grilling allows juices to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful.

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Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Breast

Pairing sides with your Grilled Chicken Breast can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and flavor.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes seasoned with garlic complement the chicken nicely.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that works well.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory grilled chicken.
5. Baked Beans: Savory baked beans add a touch of sweetness that balances the meal perfectly.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling the perfect chicken fillet requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating your chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always use a marinade to infuse your grilled chicken breast with taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long results in dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and no more.
• Not preheating the grill: Grilling on a cold surface can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill for optimal results.
• Neglecting to rest the meat: Cutting into the chicken right away lets juices escape. Allow it to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.
• Using low-quality oil: Cheap oils can smoke and affect flavor. Opt for good quality olive oil or another high smoke point oil for grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Breast

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Breast

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth, and cover until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken fillets?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken fillets. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What is the best marinade for Grilled Chicken Breast?

A basic marinade with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper works wonderfully. Feel free to add herbs for extra flavor!

How do I know when my Grilled Chicken Breast is done?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I meal prep Grilled Chicken Breast?

Absolutely! Grilled Chicken Breasts store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep.

How do I keep my Grilled Chicken Breast juicy?

Marinate your chicken properly and avoid overcooking it. Letting it rest after grilling also helps retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Chicken Breast recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different marinades or toppings based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or enjoying a quick weeknight dinner, this dish promises juicy perfection every time!