Description
Succulent grilled chicken breasts deliver Mediterranean magic with zesty herbs and olive oil marinade. Perfectly charred edges and juicy interior promise a delightful meal you’ll savor with each flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) olive oil
- 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Herbs and Spices:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Garnish and Serving (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cups (960 milliliters) mixed greens
- 1/2 cup (120 grams) feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Craft a robust marinade by whisking olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then thoroughly coat with prepared marinade. Refrigerate for 30-120 minutes to allow flavor penetration.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375-400°F). Lightly oil grill grates using a paper towel to prevent chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Position chicken breasts directly on preheated grill grates. Cook undisturbed for 6-7 minutes, developing beautiful caramelized grill marks.
- Carefully turn chicken using tongs. Continue grilling opposite side for another 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Transfer grilled chicken from grates and let rest for 5 minutes, allowing internal juices to redistribute and ensuring optimal tenderness.
- Slice chicken against the grain. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve atop mixed greens, sprinkling crumbled feta cheese for added flavor complexity.
Notes
- Tenderize chicken breasts with a meat mallet before marinating to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- Create a leaner version by using Greek yogurt instead of olive oil in the marinade for reduced calories without sacrificing moisture.
- Experiment with herb substitutions like rosemary or basil to add unique flavor profiles while keeping the core marinade technique consistent.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee precise doneness and prevent overcooking, which can make chicken dry and tough.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (minimum)
- Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg