This Italian Grilled Chicken is simple and packed with zesty flavors. Marinated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs, it’s juicy and tasty with a lovely grilled finish!
I’ll be honest, this chicken makes me feel like a chef! 🍗 I love serving it with a fresh salad or some veggies on the side. It always gets smiles at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking and absorbing flavors. If you prefer, you could use bone-in chicken parts or even turkey cutlets for a leaner option.
Olive Oil: It gives the marinade richness. Extra virgin olive oil is my top choice for its flavor, but regular olive oil or avocados oil work just fine too!
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish. If you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can be a good substitute, but fresh truly elevates it.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can work in a hurry!
Herbs: Dried oregano and basil add that Italian flair. If you have fresh herbs available, they make a lovely substitute—just use three times as much as dried herbs.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, your chicken will come out perfectly juicy! Start by marinating it for at least 30 minutes; this enhances flavor and moisture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, so it creates nice grill marks without drying out your chicken.
- Let the excess marinade drip off before placing the chicken on the grill. This prevents flare-ups.
- Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade while grilling for extra flavor and moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, pulling chicken off the grill at 165°F (75°C).
- Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before cutting. This helps juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Enjoy your grilled chicken as a meal or toss it into salads, pasta, or sandwiches! It’s not only simple but also incredibly versatile.
Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 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 grilling and garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) for marinating. You will also need around 15 minutes for grilling. So, in total, allow for about 1 hour to enjoy this zesty Italian dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and black pepper until everything is well mixed and looks smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—2 hours is even better for maximum flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking later on.
4. Get Grilling:
Once marinated, remove the chicken from the fridge and take it out of the marinade. Let any excess marinade drip off, and don’t forget to reserve some! Place the chicken breasts and lemon slices on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is nice and juicy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Brush & Flavor:
While grilling, use a brush to occasionally coat the chicken with the reserved marinade for added flavor and moisture. The lemon slices can also be grilled for about 1-2 minutes per side until they are charred and fragrant.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chicken and lemon slices from the grill and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Then, serve the grilled chicken topped with the delicious grilled lemon slices for a fresh and zesty finish!
This Easy Italian Grilled Chicken is not only juicy and flavorful but also a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy with your favorite sides, and happy grilling!
FAQ for Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and can actually be juicier due to their higher fat content. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few additional minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, it’s ideal to marinate for up to 2 hours. If you need to marinate longer than that, consider refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Just keep in mind that too much time can alter the texture of the chicken.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven or on a Stovetop?
Yes! You can bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or pan-sear it in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6-8 minutes per side. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety!
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches or reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Reheating on low helps keep the chicken tender!
