Welcome fellow BBQ enthusiasts to this mouthwatering Marinated Grilled Chicken recipe! As a seasoned griller, I’m excited to share this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any backyard cookout or family dinner. You’ll fall in love with the tender, juicy chicken infused with a savory, tangy marinade that’s bursting with flavor.
Don’t worry if you’re new to grilling or just brushing up on your skills – this grilled chicken marinade recipe is perfect for grillers of all levels. With simple ingredients and clear, step-by-step instructions, you’ll have no problem creating this amazing recipe that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
To whip up this fantastic Marinated Grilled Chicken, you’ll need some basic grilling tools like a grill (gas or charcoal), tongs, a knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and a meat thermometer. With these essentials on hand, you’re all set to fire up the grill and get cooking!
As a BBQ enthusiast with years of grilling and smoking experience, I’m here to guide you on this culinary journey. Together, let’s explore the secrets of fantastic BBQ dishes and create unforgettable meals. So let’s fire up the grill and get started on the best chicken marinade recipe you’ll ever try!
How To Make This Easy Marinated Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prepare the Marinade
Start by making the chicken marinade. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, black pepper, and minced garlic until well combined. This tasty marinade will infuse the boneless chicken breasts with flavor and help tenderize it.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts (or chicken thighs) in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then put it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 8 hours to really soak in those flavors.
Preheat the Grill
Get your grill ready for cooking by preheating it to medium-high heat, which is around 400°F (204°C). Having the grill at the right temperature will help the chicken cook evenly and develop a nice sear on the outside.
Grill Chicken
When the grill is hot and the chicken has marinated, remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Make sure to discard the used marinade. Place directly on the grill grates and cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Check for Doneness
To make sure your grilled chicken breasts are cooked through and safe to eat, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when it’s done. If it hasn’t reached this temperature, continue to cook the chicken until it does.
Rest and Serve
Once the chicken has reached the proper temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and juicy. After resting, slice the chicken and serve it up with your favorite sides.
Enjoy!
Tips For Making Marinated Grilled Chicken
If you’re new to grilling or just looking for some extra pointers, I’ve got you covered! Here are some simple tips to help you create the perfect Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast, even if you’re a beginner.
Let’s get you started on the path to grilling success!
- Marinating Time: Don’t rush the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours helps the flavors penetrate the meat. For the best results, try marinating for up to 8 hours.
- Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to the right temperature, around 400°F (204°C). A consistent, medium-high heat ensures even cooking and a delicious sear on the chicken.
- Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This helps you avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give your chicken breasts plenty of space on the grill for even cooking and to prevent sticking. Overcrowding can cause uneven heat distribution and make flipping the chicken more difficult.
- Rest Before Serving: After grilling, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.
With these easy-to-follow tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy grilling!
Perfect Sides for Marinated Grilled Chicken
When you’ve cooked up a flavorful and juicy Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast, you’ll want to round out the meal with some delicious side dishes. Here are some of my favorite sides that complement the savory, tangy flavors of this chicken recipe:
- Grilled Veggie Skewers: Add a pop of color and extra flavor to your plate with grilled veggie skewers. Thread vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and red onions onto skewers, brush them with a little olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill them alongside the chicken for a tasty and healthy side.
- Classic Potato Salad: You can’t go wrong with a creamy, homemade potato salad. Boil some baby potatoes, and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, chopped celery, and red onion. Add some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. This comforting side dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
- Coleslaw: Add some crunch to your meal with a tangy, refreshing coleslaw. Combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and thinly sliced red onion with a dressing made from mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a touch of mustard. The crisp, cool coleslaw balances out the savory flavors of the marinated chicken.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Take advantage of the grill’s smoky flavor and prepare some grilled corn on the cob. Brush the corn with melted butter, season with salt and pepper, and grill until tender and slightly charred. Serve with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a zesty twist.
- Quinoa Salad: For a lighter, protein-packed side, opt for a colorful quinoa salad. Toss cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, then mix in crumbled feta cheese, fresh herbs, and a lemony dressing. This refreshing salad complements the Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast beautifully.
With these delicious side dishes, you’ll have a complete and satisfying meal that showcases your Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast. Mix and match your favorites, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your own side dish ideas!
Best Beer To Serve With Marinated Grilled Chicken
When you’ve cooked up a delicious Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast, the perfect beverage to complement your meal can elevate the dining experience to a whole new level. That’s why I’m sharing my top 3 beer picks that pair beautifully with this tasty chicken dish. Let’s raise a toast to great flavors and good times!
American Pale Ale
An American Pale Ale pairs wonderfully with the Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast. Its citrusy hop profile and light malt backbone complement the zesty, savory flavors of the marinade. The beer’s moderate bitterness helps cut through the richness of the chicken, creating a balanced and refreshing experience.
Wheat Beer
A crisp, refreshing wheat beer is another excellent choice to enjoy with your marinated grilled chicken. The beer’s fruity and spicy notes match the chicken’s tangy marinade, while the light body won’t overpower the dish. Wheat beers like a Hefeweizen or Witbier are perfect for sipping alongside your tasty chicken.
Amber Lager
If you’re in the mood for something a little more malty, try an Amber Lager. Its subtle caramel and toasted malt flavors provide a nice contrast to the bright, tangy marinade of the chicken. The lager’s clean finish and moderate carbonation cleanse the palate between bites, making each mouthful as enjoyable as the last.
Variations of Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe
One of the best things about a Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the marinade to suit your tastes or use what you have on hand. Here are some delicious variations:
Sweet and Spicy Chicken
For a sweet and spicy twist, add brown sugar to the marinade. The sugar will caramelize on the grill, giving the chicken a beautiful, sticky glaze. Combine this with garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a flavor-packed dish. s
Garlic and Herb Chicken
For a more savory, aromatic option, increase the amount of garlic powder and add your favorite fresh herbs to the marinade. Choose from herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an extra layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.
Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Swap out the lemon juice for balsamic vinegar to create a rich, tangy marinade. The balsamic vinegar adds depth and a touch of sweetness to the chicken, making it perfect for those who enjoy a more complex flavor profile.
Citrus Herb Chicken
For a bright, zesty variation, substitute lime juice for the lemon juice in the marinade. The lime juice adds a fresh, tropical twist to the dish. Combine this with fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, or basil for a mouthwatering, summery meal.
Smoky BBQ Chicken
If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, add a little smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar to the marinade. This combination creates a sweet, smoky, and savory flavor reminiscent of classic BBQ.
These variations of the delicious marinated grilled chicken recipe showcase just how adaptable this dish can be. Feel free to get creative and come up with your own unique flavor combinations, and enjoy the endless possibilities of this versatile recipe!
More Chicken Recipes
- Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken
- Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe
- Grilled Chicken Cordon Bleu Recipe
- Grilled Chicken Parmesan Recipe
- Pellet Grill Chicken Breast Recipe
- The Best Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe
Marinated Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe
Equipment
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Tongs
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Large resealable bag or shallow dish
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tsp minced garlic
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, parsley, black pepper, and minced garlic in a mixing bowl.
- Place chicken breasts in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and discard the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Marinated Grilled Chicken FAQs
How long should you marinate chicken?
Marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For the best results, marinate the chicken for up to 8 hours. Be careful not to marinate it for too long, as the acidity in the marinade can break down the chicken’s texture, making it mushy.
Can you marinate chicken too long?
Yes, marinating chicken for too long can cause the meat to become mushy due to the acidity in the marinade. To avoid this, limit the marinating time to no more than 8 hours, especially when using highly acidic marinades with ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar.
How can I make my grilled chicken more flavorful?
To make your grilled chicken more flavorful, marinate it in a blend of oil, acidic ingredients (like lemon juice or vinegar), and your favorite herbs and spices. This not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, resulting in a juicier, more delicious final product.
How do I know when my grilled chicken is done?
To ensure your grilled chicken is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer to check its internal temperature. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption. This helps you avoid undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Can I use this marinated grilled chicken recipe on other types of meat?
Yes, you can use this marinated grilled chicken recipe on other types of meat, such as pork or beef. Just adjust the marinating time based on the type and thickness of the meat. Keep in mind that some meats may require longer marinating times to fully absorb the flavors and tenderize.