There’s nothing quite like the taste of juicy, tender grilled chicken straight off the barbecue. And what’s even better? Having that delicious meal ready to go whenever you need it, thanks to our Make Ahead Grilled Chicken recipe. With a simple marinade and a little prep work, you can have flavorful grilled chicken on hand to use in salads, sandwiches, or as a main dish for the busy week ahead. So, fire up the grill and let’s get cooking!
**Make Ahead Grilled Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for best flavor).
3. **Grill the Chicken:** Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
4. **Cool and Store:** Allow the grilled chicken to cool completely. Once cooled, you can store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to use the chicken for longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
5. **Reheat and Enjoy:** When you’re ready to enjoy your Make Ahead Grilled Chicken, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the stovetop until warmed through. Serve the chicken sliced on top of salads, in sandwiches, or as a main dish with your favorite sides. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
By having a batch of Make Ahead Grilled Chicken ready to go, you’ll save time and make meal prep a breeze throughout the week. This versatile dish is perfect for adding protein to your favorite meals, whether it’s a quick lunch or a cozy dinner at home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can elevate your cooking game and enjoy the delicious flavors of grilled chicken whenever you please. Go ahead and give this recipe a try – your future self will thank you for the flavorful convenience!
