Description
This grilled chicken breast recipe features tender, flavorful chicken marinated in a zesty mixture of olive oil, garlic, thyme, oregano, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection, it’s an easy and healthy meal ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken
- 1 3/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon zest, from one lemon
Instructions
- Pound the Chicken: One at a time, place the chicken breasts in a 1-gallon zip-lock bag; using a meat mallet, pound to an even ½-inch thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Prepare the Marinade and Marinate: Mix all of the marinade ingredients (except the chicken) together in a 1-gallon zip-lock bag. Add the pounded chicken breasts to the bag and massage the marinade into the meat until evenly coated. Seal the bag and place it in a bowl in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.
- Preheat and Oil the Grill: Preheat the grill to high heat and oil the grates to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook, covered, for 2 to 3 minutes per side until cooked through but not overdone, ensuring juicy and tender results.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken breasts to a platter and serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness significantly.
- Make sure the grill grates are well oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) if needed.
- Nutritional information accounts for the entire marinade; actual calorie and fat intake per serving may be lower.
