Best Grilled Chicken Breasts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled chicken breasts are a classic favorite for their juicy, tender texture and savory, smoky flavor. This recipe delivers perfectly grilled chicken every time—ideal for a healthy dinner, meal prep, or summer cookout. With a simple marinade and quick cooking time, it’s an easy and versatile go-to meal.

ingredients

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

boneless skinless chicken breastsolive oillemon juicedijon mustardgarlic cloves (minced)paprikadried oreganosaltblack pepper

directions

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

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours.

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

Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.

Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 30 minutes to 8 hoursGrilling time: 10-14 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes to 8 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Add honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.

Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smokier flavor.

Swap lemon juice for lime juice and add cumin for a Tex-Mex twist.

Top with fresh herbs or serve with chimichurri for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store grilled chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.Reheat gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat to avoid drying out.

FAQs

How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out on the grill?
Pounding them to an even thickness, marinating, and not overcooking are key to juicy results.

Can I use a grill pan indoors?
Yes, a grill pan on the stovetop works well when an outdoor grill isn’t available.

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with yellow mustard or even a bit of mayo for creaminess.

Is it okay to skip the marinade time?
Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, even 15 minutes helps.

Can I grill frozen chicken breasts?
Thaw completely before grilling for even cooking and best texture.

What’s the best way to check doneness?
Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What sides go well with grilled chicken?
Grilled vegetables, salads, rice, or baked potatoes are all great pairings.

Can I use this marinade on other proteins?
Yes, it works well with turkey, pork, or even tofu.

What’s the best oil for the marinade?
Olive oil is flavorful, but you can also use avocado or canola oil.

Can I meal prep with grilled chicken?
Absolutely, it’s perfect for salads, wraps, or grain bowls throughout the week.

Conclusion

Best Grilled Chicken Breasts offer simplicity, bold flavor, and versatility in every bite. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or preparing meals ahead, this recipe guarantees moist, flavorful chicken that’s ready to elevate any dish. Grill it once, and it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

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