This Easy Italian Grilled Chicken is juicy and full of tasty flavors! Marinated in a mix of herbs, garlic, and olive oil, it’s a simple dish that takes dinner to a fresh level.
I love serving it with a big salad or some roasted veggies. It’s such a crowd-pleaser, and you just can’t go wrong with that grilled goodness! 🍗🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish light and tender. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work great too! They tend to be juicier and can absorb the marinade well.
Olive Oil: A must for this marinade! You could substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor profile, which also has a high smoke point for grilling.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds brightness. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is fine, but fresh always tastes better!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a fragrant kick. If you’re short on garlic, garlic powder will do in a pinch—use about 1/4 teaspoon.
Dried Herbs: Oregano and basil are classic Italian flavors. You can use Italian seasoning instead for convenience, which typically contains these and more.
How Can I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to adding flavor and keeping it juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix marinade ingredients in a bowl until combined.
- Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over it, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Longer is better; aim for 1 to 2 hours if possible.
- Always discard leftover marinade after removing the chicken to ensure food safety.
This process deeply infuses the chicken with yummy flavors, leading to a tastier meal!
Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Lemon slices, for grilling and garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate. Plan for a total of about 45 minutes, plus grilling time of approximately 10-14 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). This zesty marinade is what makes the chicken so delicious!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish tightly, then pop it into the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes; if you have time, letting it sit for 1 to 2 hours will give it even more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken will get those beautiful grill marks and cook evenly.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken is marinated, remove it from the refrigerator, take it out of the marinade, and discard the marinade to keep things safe. Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have nice grill marks.
5. Add Lemon Slices:
In the last few minutes of grilling, add lemon slices directly to the grill. Cook until they are slightly charred; this adds a lovely flavor! It’s great for garnishing later.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken is done and the lemon slices are charred, remove them from the grill. Serve your juicy, flavorful grilled chicken topped with the grilled lemon slices for an extra burst of citrus goodness. Enjoy it with your favorite sides like a fresh salad or some roasted vegetables!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Italian Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw it completely first! Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker method. Pat it dry before marinating to ensure better flavor absorption.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to marinate the chicken. Just give it a good stir before use!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain its juiciness.
What Makes This Chicken Recipe Italian?
This recipe incorporates classic Italian flavors through the use of olive oil, garlic, and herbs like oregano and basil. These ingredients are staples in Italian cuisine, bringing a delicious Mediterranean essence to the dish.
