When it comes to easy and delicious meals, grilled chicken is a go-to favorite for many households. It’s versatile, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with loved ones. Today, we’re going to share a recipe for the Best Simple Grilled Chicken that will become a staple in your kitchen. This recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few basic ingredients, but the end result is juicy, tender chicken with a perfectly charred exterior. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
**Best Simple Grilled Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If they are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them slightly to an even thickness for even cooking. This step will ensure all parts of the chicken cook at the same rate.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors infuse into the chicken.
3. **Preheat the Grill:** Meanwhile, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
4. **Grill the Chicken:** Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the marinade and discard any excess. Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the chicken, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. Avoid continuously flipping the chicken to allow those beautiful grill marks to form.
5. **Rest and Serve:** Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Serve the grilled chicken with your favorite sides, such as a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
6. **Enjoy:** Gather your family and friends around the table and enjoy the Best Simple Grilled Chicken you’ve just prepared. The tender, flavorful chicken paired with the smoky aroma from the grill will surely make it a hit at any gathering or weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste, adding some spice with red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon for a citrusy twist.
Whether it’s a sunny weekend barbecue or a cozy evening by the fire pit, this Best Simple Grilled Chicken recipe will quickly become a household favorite. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you can elevate your chicken grilling game and impress your guests with this easy-to-follow recipe. So fire up the grill, get those chicken breasts marinating, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will surely bring smiles to everyone’s faces!
