Description
Succulent grilled chicken breast brings Mediterranean zest to dinner tables with juicy, herb-infused flavors. Lean protein meets simple seasonings, creating a quick and wholesome meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (454 grams)
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or basil)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions
- Craft a zesty marinade by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer chicken breasts to a sealable container, coat completely with marinade, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours to enhance flavor penetration.
- Heat outdoor grill to 400°F, lightly oil grates to prevent sticking and ensure smooth chicken release.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, then discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Position chicken breasts on hot grill, cooking undisturbed for 6-7 minutes to develop distinctive char marks and seal in moisture.
- Carefully rotate chicken, grilling opposite side for additional 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices appear transparent.
- Transfer grilled chicken from heat, letting it rest 5 minutes to redistribute internal juices and maintain tenderness.
- Plate the chicken, garnishing with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, serving alongside complementary sides like steamed vegetables or crisp salad.
Notes
- Pound chicken breasts evenly to ensure uniform thickness, promoting consistent cooking and preventing dry edges.
- Opt for high-quality olive oil and fresh herbs to elevate marinade flavor and enhance overall taste profile.
- Remove chicken from refrigerator 15-20 minutes before grilling, allowing meat to reach room temperature for more even cooking.
- Pat chicken dry before marinating to help seasoning adhere better and create delicious caramelized exterior during grilling.
- Use digital meat thermometer for precise doneness, preventing overcooking and maintaining tender, juicy texture.
- Experiment with alternative herb combinations like rosemary, basil, or cilantro to customize flavor without compromising technique.
- Consider low-sodium alternatives or substitute marinade ingredients for gluten-free, paleo, or keto dietary requirements.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (minimum marination)
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg