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 Italian seasoning)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for caramelized flavor)
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
Instructions
- Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch even thickness using a meat mallet between parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add brown sugar and smoked paprika if desired.
- Place chicken in a zip-lock bag and pour in the marinade, reserving a little for basting. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F) and oil the grates.
- Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 2–3 minutes per side for sear marks, then continue cooking 5–6 minutes per side until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Baste with reserved marinade.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest under foil for 5 minutes.
- Slice and serve hot.
Notes
- Marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
- Pound chicken evenly to ensure even cooking.
- For added flavor, try swapping herbs or adding chili flakes for heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness at 165°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg