This Easy Italian Grilled Chicken is juicy, tasty, and full of flavor. With simple herbs and spices, it’s a breeze to whip up on the grill for any meal!
I personally love to serve it with a side of fresh veggies or pasta. It’s like an Italian feast without any fuss. Who knew delicious could be this easy? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. You could swap them for chicken thighs if you want something a bit juicier and flavorful!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re short on olive oil, feel free to use avocado oil or another neutral oil instead.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish. You can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Herbs: Dried oregano, basil, and parsley are classic Italian flavors here. If you have fresh herbs, use about three times the amount for more vibrant flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional for some heat. You can skip them or substitute with black pepper for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get Juicy, Well-Grilled Chicken?
Getting the perfect grilled chicken involves more than just time on the grill. Here’s how to achieve juicy, flavorful chicken:
- Marinate: Give it at least 30 minutes, but longer is better. This is where all the flavor happens!
- Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high. A hot grill helps sear the chicken and lock in juices.
- Don’t Rush: Grill the chicken for 6 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Let the chicken sit for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute for a tender bite.
With these tips, you’ll nail it every time! Happy grilling!
Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little spice)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and marinating, plus 12–14 minutes for grilling. If you can, marinate the chicken for 2–4 hours to enhance the flavor. So, set aside around 30–40 minutes overall, depending on how long you marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk them together until well mixed. This will be your flavorful marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Put 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 well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, 2 to 4 hours will give you even more flavorful chicken!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Don’t forget to lightly oil the grill grates. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the hot grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). In the last few minutes of grilling, add lemon slices on top of the chicken to give it a nice char.
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is important because it helps keep the chicken juicy. When you’re ready to serve, place the grilled chicken on a platter and top with the grilled lemon slices for an extra touch!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Easy Italian Grilled Chicken! It’s great as a main dish or sliced into salads, wraps, or pasta dishes. Happy eating!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before marinating. You can thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for faster results. Pat it dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes for flavor, but for the best results, aim for 2 to 4 hours. If you’re in a rush, even a short marination will still yield tasty results!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Chicken?
This Easy Italian Grilled Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it with pasta, a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some crusty bread. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove. If reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist!
