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Juicy Grilled Chicken Breast

This grilled chicken breast recipe uses a flavorful marinade and precise cooking techniques to ensure tender, juicy results with beautiful grill marks. Main ingredients include lean chicken, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs, which combine to create a bright, aromatic dish with a slightly smoky exterior. The final texture is perfectly cooked, moist, and flavorful, suitable for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer cookout.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts preferably even thickness
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for smoky flavor

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Basting brush

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the marinade stick better.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using, to create a flavorful marinade.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring all sides are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.
  4. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, aiming for around 200°C (390°F). You should see the grill hot enough to sizzle when you place the chicken on it.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and place it on the hot grill. Listen for a gentle sizzle and see the surface start to brown after about 2 minutes.
  6. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on one side, then flip using tongs once it releases easily and has visible grill marks. Continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes.
  7. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; once it reads 75°C (165°F), remove the chicken from the grill. This ensures perfect juiciness and safety.
  8. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain into thick slices or serve whole, drizzled with any remaining juices from resting. The exterior will be beautifully charred with a juicy, tender interior.
  10. Enjoy your perfectly grilled, juicy chicken breast alongside your favorite sides for a wholesome meal.