This Easy Italian Grilled Chicken is a tasty dish that’s super simple to make! With just a few herbs and spices, you get juicy chicken with a hint of Italian flavor. Yum!
I love serving it with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this one! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish lean and easy. However, you can use thighs for added flavor and moisture, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a rich flavor. If you’re out, a light oil like canola or avocado oil works just as well.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best for brightness. If you don’t have any, you can use bottled juice in a pinch, but fresh is always preferable.
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil give that classic Italian taste. If you have fresh herbs, use them! Just double the amount for more vibrant flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that aromatic kick. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can work—just reduce the amount to about 1/2 teaspoon.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy When Grilling?
Keeping chicken juicy while grilling can be tricky, but marinade is your friend! Marinating the chicken helps to infuse moisture and flavor. Try these tips to keep your chicken from drying out:
- Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes—1-2 hours is ideal for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken gets a good sear to lock in juices.
- Avoid flipping the chicken too often; let it cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side before flipping.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps the juices redistribue!
Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. Plan for an additional 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you can expect it to take around 55 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and fragrant.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is coated nicely. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, 1-2 hours is even better for flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before you start grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftovers. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (a safe internal temperature is 165°F or 74°C). You should see nice grill marks on the chicken!
5. Grill the Lemon Slices:
While the chicken is cooking, you can add lemon slices to the grill. Place them on the grill for 1-2 minutes per side until they have a nice char. These will add an extra burst of flavor to your dish.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is done grilling, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Serve the grilled chicken topped with the charred lemon slices. Enjoy your delicious Easy Italian Grilled Chicken!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the fridge. If you need more time, marinating overnight is fine but avoid going over 24 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much, affecting its texture.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, use a grill pan on the stovetop. Just make sure to preheat the pan well before adding the chicken, and cook over medium-high heat, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or heat it gently in a skillet on the stove until warmed through.
