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Grilled Chicken Breasts with Lemon, Garlic, and Herbs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 53 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Grilled Chicken Breasts recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to prepare juicy, tender chicken using a vibrant marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and paprika. Perfect for summer cookouts or a healthy weeknight dinner, the chicken is marinated to absorb aromatic spices and grilled to perfection, then garnished with fresh herbs for an added burst of freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds total; high-quality recommended)
  • Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to create a smooth marinade.
  2. Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This step ensures the marinade adheres better to the chicken surface for optimal flavor absorption.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it reaches an ideal temperature for grilling chicken without burning.
  5. Prepare Chicken for Grilling: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, then discard the leftover marinade safely to avoid contamination.
  6. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on one side without moving them to develop a nice sear. Flip the chicken and grill for an additional 6 to 7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  7. Rest the Chicken: Remove the grilled chicken breasts from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and tender chicken.
  8. Slice and Serve: Slice the chicken breasts against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with your choice of sides or sauces and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for an enhanced presentation and flavor.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a brighter flavor.
  • Do not marinate the chicken for longer than 2 hours to prevent the acidity from breaking down the meat texture excessively.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • Letting the chicken rest after grilling keeps it juicy and tender.
  • Garnishing with fresh herbs not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.

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Find it online: https://flavorfestkitchen.com/grilled-chicken-breasts-with-lemon-garlic-and-herbs-recipe/