Best Grilled Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Best Grilled Chicken Breasts are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summer cookouts, this recipe delivers tender chicken with a smoky char and savory seasoning in every bite. With a simple marinade and quick grilling time, it’s a go-to choice for healthy and satisfying meals.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oillemon juicegarlic cloves (minced)paprikaonion powderdried oregano or thymeground black peppersalt

directions

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.

Seal or cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 4 hours.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C) and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Remove chicken from marinade and discard the excess.

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and grill marks form.

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 grilled chicken breasts.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hoursGrilling time: 12-16 minutesTotal time: 50-90 minutes

Variations

Use lime juice instead of lemon for a tangier flavor.

Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a hint of sweetness and caramelization.

Swap oregano for rosemary or thyme to change the herb profile.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or cayenne.

Add yogurt to the marinade for extra tenderness.

storage/reheating

Store grilled chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.You can also freeze grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out on the grill?

Marinate well, pound to even thickness, and avoid overcooking—165°F is the ideal internal temp.

Can I use a grill pan or stovetop?

Yes, a grill pan works well. Cook over medium-high heat and flip halfway through.

Do I need to let the chicken rest?

Yes, resting helps retain juices and improves texture.

Can I marinate overnight?

Yes, but no longer than 24 hours to avoid breaking down the meat too much.

Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, but increase cooking time and check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temp reaches 165°F.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits a keto lifestyle.

What sides go well with grilled chicken?

Try grilled veggies, rice, salads, or roasted potatoes.

Can I meal prep with this recipe?

Absolutely. It’s perfect for salads, wraps, and rice bowls throughout the week.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

Garlic powder can be used as a substitute—use 1 teaspoon per clove.

Conclusion

Best Grilled Chicken Breasts are a simple yet flavorful choice for any meal. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or indoors, this recipe ensures juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken every time. Ideal for healthy eating, quick dinners, or make-ahead lunches, it’s a dependable staple you’ll turn to again and again.

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