The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

Marinated in a bold blend of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, The Best Grilled Chicken Breast is not only juicy and tender but also packed with bright Mediterranean flavor. This dish shines as a quick and healthy option for weeknight dinners or summer cookouts. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a family meal, this grilled chicken breast will impress everyone at the table.

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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 Marinade
• For the Chicken
• How to Make The Best Grilled Chicken Breast
• Step 1: Pound the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Marinade
• Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 4: Preheat the Grill
• Step 5: Grill the Chicken
• Step 6: Rest the Chicken
• Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
• How to Serve The Best Grilled Chicken Breast
• On a Bed of Greens
• As a Sandwich
• With Grains
• How to Perfect The Best Grilled Chicken Breast
• Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Chicken Breast
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing The Best Grilled Chicken Breast
• Reheating The Best Grilled Chicken Breast
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I ensure my grilled chicken is juicy?
• Can I use other marinades for grilled chicken?
• What sides pair well with grilled chicken?
• How can I customize this recipe?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With easy steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Bursting with Flavor: The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful combination of balsamic vinegar and fresh herbs.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for pairing with salads, grains, or veggies; it fits any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories yet high in protein, making it great for health-conscious eaters.
• Grill-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor grilling during warm months or cooking indoors on a grill pan.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Meat mallet
• Resealable bag or shallow bowl
• Whisk
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or grill pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfect grilling.
• Meat mallet: Ensures chicken cooks evenly by pounding to uniform thickness.
• Resealable bag: Makes marinating easy and mess-free, allowing flavors to penetrate the meat effectively.

Ingredients

To create The Best Grilled Chicken Breast, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Marinade

• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• Juice of 1 large lemon (about 1/4 cup)
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
• Oil for greasing grill or grill pan

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How to Make The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

Step 1: Pound the Chicken

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a zip-top bag. Use a meat mallet to pound to an even thickness for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a resealable bag or shallow bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Add chicken to the marinade and coat thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours. Before grilling, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high (375–450°F). Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Grill chicken for 3–4 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 155–160°F.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Transfer grilled chicken to a plate and rest for 5–10 minutes. The internal temperature will continue to rise to 165°F during resting.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides, salads, or grains. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken fillet!

How to Serve The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

Serving The Best Grilled Chicken Breast is all about pairing it with complementary flavors and textures. With its juicy tenderness and bold marinade, this chicken can shine in various dishes.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Top fresh mixed greens with sliced grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• Caesar Salad: Add grilled chicken to romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a hearty twist on the classic salad.

As a Sandwich

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Layer your grilled chicken between toasted bread with avocado, lettuce, and tomato for a satisfying lunch option.
• Mediterranean Wrap: Wrap sliced grilled chicken in a tortilla with hummus, cucumber, and feta cheese for a flavorful handheld meal.

With Grains

• Quinoa Bowl: Serve sliced grilled chicken over quinoa mixed with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of olive oil for a nutritious bowl.
• Rice Pilaf: Pair your grilled chicken with seasoned rice pilaf for an easy and tasty side that complements the Mediterranean flavors.

How to Perfect The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

To achieve The Best Grilled Chicken Breast, focus on preparation and cooking techniques. These tips will help you create the perfect dish every time.

• Choose Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breasts that are free from additives for the best flavor.
• Pound Evenly: Ensure uniform thickness by pounding the chicken breasts. This helps them cook evenly on the grill.
• Marinate Adequately: Allow at least 30 minutes of marinating time; up to 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor without compromising texture.
• Preheat Your Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the inside juicy.
• Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, enhancing tenderness.

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Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

When it comes to serving The Best Grilled Chicken Breast, choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to complement your dish.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs add color and flavor.
3. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with herbs, lemon juice, and veggies provides a refreshing contrast.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Simple steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice pairs perfectly with grilled chicken’s richness.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze create a vibrant side bursting with flavor.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with rosemary offer a delightful crunch alongside your juicy fillet.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing The Best Grilled Chicken Breast, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in flavor and texture.

• Over-marinating: Leaving chicken in the marinade for too long can break down its texture. Aim for 30 minutes to 4 hours for best results.
• Skipping the pound step: Not pounding the chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Always pound to an even thickness for consistent grilling.
• Neglecting temperature checks: Failing to check the internal temperature may result in undercooked chicken. Ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Grilling on low heat: Cooking at low temperatures can dry out the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect grilling.
• Using leftover marinade: Reusing the marinade without cooking it can introduce harmful bacteria. Discard any leftover marinade after marinating.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken fillet in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

• Place grilled chicken breast in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For best quality, use within 2-3 months of freezing.

Reheating The Best Grilled Chicken Breast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover loosely and heat in increments of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and warm the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my grilled chicken is juicy?

To keep The Best Grilled Chicken Breast juicy, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer and resting the chicken after grilling.

Can I use other marinades for grilled chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different marinades that complement your taste preferences; just keep an eye on marinating time.

What sides pair well with grilled chicken?

The Best Grilled Chicken Breast goes well with salads, steamed vegetables, or whole grains like quinoa or brown rice.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can customize by adding spices or herbs you love or adjusting the level of acidity in the marinade according to your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The Best Grilled Chicken Breast is perfect for meal prep. Just store portions in airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Best Grilled Chicken Breast is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it allows room for customization based on your favorite flavors. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy!