The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
Elevate your weeknight dinners or summer cookouts with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet. Marinated in a vibrant blend of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish promises juicy tenderness and an explosion of flavor that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking on a grill pan, this healthy option is low in calories yet high in protein, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters. Serve it on a bed of greens, as a sandwich, or with grains for a versatile meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes to cook, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavorful Marinade: The combination of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs creates a rich flavor that elevates the chicken to new heights.
- Health-Conscious Option: This grilled chicken fillet is low in calories yet packed with protein, making it perfect for those watching their diet.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on salads, in sandwiches, or paired with grains for a balanced meal.
- Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a summer barbecue, this dish fits perfectly into any menu.
Tools and Preparation
To create The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grill or grill pan
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Meat mallet: Ensures even thickness for the chicken breasts, promoting uniform cooking.
- Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine the marinade ingredients easily.
- Grill or grill pan: Provides the right cooking surface to achieve those beautiful grill marks and flavors.
- Meat thermometer: Helps you check the internal temperature accurately to ensure safe consumption.
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
- Fresh rosemary and basil
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
How to Make The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
Step 1: Pound the Chicken Breasts
Use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl:
Whisk together balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the pounded chicken breasts into the marinade:
Ensure each piece is fully coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For extra flavor, marinate up to 4 hours if time allows.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat while waiting for the chicken to marinate.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Once marinated:
Grill each chicken breast for about 3–4 minutes per side.
Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Let It Rest
After grilling:
Let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture within each fillet.
Enjoy your deliciously grilled chicken fillets!
How to Serve The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
Serving The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet is all about creativity and versatility. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and can be enjoyed in different ways, making it perfect for any occasion.
On a Bed of Greens
- A light salad of mixed greens can complement the chicken’s flavors. Toss in cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added freshness.
As a Sandwich
- Slice the grilled chicken and serve it on a crusty roll with avocado, lettuce, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a satisfying meal.
With Grains
- Pair the chicken fillet with quinoa or brown rice. Add some steamed vegetables to create a wholesome bowl that’s both nutritious and filling.
In Tacos
- Shred the grilled chicken and fill soft or hard taco shells. Top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a fun twist.
As Part of a Platter
- Serve the chicken alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired appetizer spread that’s great for entertaining.
With Roasted Vegetables
- Complement the fillet with seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful plate that’s bursting with flavor.
How to Perfect The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
To ensure your grilled chicken fillet turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality olive oil enhance the marinade’s flavor significantly.
- Pound evenly: Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Marinate longer: For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
- Preheat the grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it; this helps achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling. This step keeps it juicy and tender when sliced.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
Pairing side dishes with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that complements grilled flavors.
- Mediterranean Couscous Salad: A refreshing salad combining couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and lemon dressing adds brightness.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled until charred creates a classic summer side.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts tossed with balsamic vinegar provide an earthy balance.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and ripe tomatoes drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a vibrant contrast.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Lightly spiced quinoa mixed with nuts and dried fruits serves as both nutritious and flavorful accompaniment.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries seasoned lightly bring sweetness that pairs nicely with savory grilled chicken.
- Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini sautéed lightly makes for a low-carb option that’s light yet satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When grilling The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Always allow at least 30 minutes for the marinade to infuse its delicious taste.
- Not pounding the chicken: Leaving chicken breasts uneven can result in uneven cooking. Take a moment to pound them to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
- Grilling at the wrong temperature: Cooking on too low or too high heat can lead to dry chicken or burnt outsides. Preheat your grill properly to medium-high for perfect results.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking beyond 165°F will dry out your fillets. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked just right.
- Ignoring resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling releases juices, making it dry. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
- Choosing poor-quality chicken: Using low-quality chicken can affect flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh, high-quality boneless skinless chicken breasts.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store grilled chicken fillets in an airtight container.
- They last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
- Wrap each fillet tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and reheat chicken on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use medium power and heat in short intervals, checking frequently until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, cover, and warm for about 5-8 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet.
How long should I marinate The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but for extra flavor, you can marinate up to 4 hours.
Can I use other herbs for The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano based on your taste preferences.
What side dishes pair well with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet?
Serve it alongside salads, roasted vegetables, or whole grains like quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
Is The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet healthy?
Yes! This dish is low in calories and high in protein, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Final Thoughts
The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over greens, as part of a sandwich, or paired with grains. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs and spices. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meals!
The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Elevate your weeknight dinners and summer cookouts with The Best Grilled Chicken Fillet! This recipe features juicy chicken marinated in a zesty blend of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked on a grill pan, this dish is not only flavorful but also a healthy choice packed with protein. Serve it over a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or alongside grains for a versatile meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion, this grilled chicken fillet is destined to become your go-to recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
- 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
- Fresh rosemary and basil
- Sea salt and ground black pepper
Instructions
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Coat the chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill each chicken breast for 3–4 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 grilled chicken breast (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
