Grandma’s Juicy Grilled Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings the timeless flavors of a backyard BBQ right to your table. The combination of fresh lemon, garlic, herbs, and olive oil creates a marinade that not only enhances the chicken’s natural flavor but also keeps it moist and tender. The secret? Even cooking and a little bit of patience while marinating ensures that every bite is packed with juicy goodness. Plus, the grill marks and caramelized bits make it look as great as it tastes!

Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless chicken breasts, pounded to ½-inch even thickness

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 large lemon)

• 2 tbsp lemon juice, freshly squeezed

• 1 tsp dried oregano (or substitute with Italian seasoning)

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp ground black pepper

• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for added caramelized flavor)

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky BBQ flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by pounding your chicken breasts to an even thickness of ½ inch using a meat mallet, placing them between parchment paper. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly, keeping it juicy on the grill.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, add a pinch of brown sugar and smoked paprika if you prefer a caramelized or smoky taste.

3. Place the chicken breasts into a zip-lock bag and pour in the marinade, reserving a little bit for basting while grilling. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.

4. Preheat your grill to medium-high (around 375-400°F) and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

5. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Grill for 2–3 minutes per side to get the sear marks, then cook for 5–6 minutes more on each side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baste with the reserved marinade as it cooks.

6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest, tented with foil, for about 5 minutes.

7. Slice and serve, and prepare for everyone to ask for your secret!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Marinating time: 4 hours (or overnight)

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Herb blend swap: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary, basil, or parsley instead of oregano and thyme.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy version.

• Grilled vegetables: Pair the chicken with grilled vegetables such as zucchini, peppers, and onions for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its juicy texture. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent dryness.

FAQs

1. How do I ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out?

Ensure that the chicken is pounded to an even thickness and marinated for at least 4 hours. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat, and avoid pressing down on it with a spatula, as this will release the juices.

2. Can I use bone-in chicken instead of boneless breasts?

Yes, you can. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through.

3. Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavor. Just make sure to store it in the fridge.

4. What if I don’t have a meat mallet?

You can use a rolling pin or even the back of a heavy pan to pound the chicken to an even thickness.

5. Can I make this recipe on a stovetop grill pan?

Absolutely! Heat the grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F internally.

6. How can I make this recipe more flavorful?

Try adding additional herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley, or include a touch of hot sauce for an extra kick.

7. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great substitute and tend to be juicier, but they may take a little longer to cook.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. This ensures the chicken is both safe to eat and perfectly cooked.

9. Can I use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill?

Yes, a gas grill works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure it’s preheated to the right temperature.

10. Can I freeze the marinated chicken before grilling?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken with the marinade in a zip-lock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before grilling.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Juicy Grilled Chicken is a recipe that delivers tender, flavorful chicken with a perfectly balanced marinade. Whether you’re grilling for a family dinner or a backyard barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and mouthwatering taste.